A trio of historic war planes will be flying into Sidmouth for the first time ever this summer for the town’s annual air display.
Organisers announced this week that the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight [BBMF] will join the Red Arrows for the event on Friday, August 25.
The famous Spitfire, Hurricane and Lancaster bomber are scheduled to perform a series of group and individual routines.
Following the end of the BBMF display, the Red Arrows will jet in to thrill the crowds.
Sidmouth Town Council is hoping to amass an ‘army’ of collectors for the day to raise funds for the 2018 air display.
Christopher Holland, town clerk, said: “The Spitfire, the Lancaster and the Hurricane flying over Sidmouth will be a sight to behold and it will be a first. Last year, we had a very good event.
“The public was very generous and our business sponsors were, too, which has enabled us to apply for the Red Arrows and the BBMF at the same time.
“We would ask the public to dig deep once again and volunteer to be collectors.
“We need an army of collectors; it’s the collectors that make it happen.
“It will only be an annual event if the funding is there each year.”
The displays will act as a prelude to Sidmouth Regatta.
Last year, more than 25,000 people packed on to Sidmouth beach to watch the Red Arrows.
Councillor Jeff Turner, chairman of the town council, said: “I am delighted to welcome not just the Red Arrows, but also the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight to display over what must be one the most perfect arenas in the country for an air display - our beautiful seafront.”
Exact timings are to be confirmed.
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