n Southend’s Air Festival always ends on a high.
By Michelle Norris
IT'S time to turn your eyes to the sky as Southend’s Air Festival takes off for a spectacular free weekend of exhilarating entertainment this bank holiday weekend.
Celebrating its 25th year as one of Europe’s largest free Airshows, the two-day festival on Sunday 30 and Monday 31 May is one of the most exciting events in Southend.
And this year is set to be bigger and better than ever before, with airborne thrills including The Battle of Britain Memorial Flight, RAF Falcons Parachute Team, Typhoon, Hawk and the Royal Navy Black Cats plus many more.
n Why the Bank Holiday weekend is finally looking up!
But for those that like to keep their feat firmly on the ground, there will be a huge variety of entertainment along the two mile seafront including RAF, Army, Navy and Royal Marine Town Shows, trade stands, rides, simulators, giant inflatables guaranteeing a fun time for the whole family.
Also, don’t miss out on the thrilling arena events such as unarmed combat from the Royal marines and – by popular demand – the return of Titan the Robot.
And especially new for this year will be the guest appearance of the BBC’s Bang Goes the Theory roadshow.
Southend-on-Sea Borough Council’s Corporate Director for Enterprise, Tourism and the Environment, Andrew Lewis, said: “Our Air Festivals have been expanding in range and scale ever since we staged our first one 25 years ago, and now Southend Air Festival is hailed as one of Europe’s largest free air shows.
“It is a landmark date in the national calendar and attracted up to 750,000 people over the two days, many of whom come to Southend from other parts of the country. The Air Festival introduces new visitors to the town and encourages residents and regular visitors to discover Southend afresh.
“We are delighted this year to be presenting such a wealth of free fun and entertainment for all the family.”
So, why not enjoy the sunshine at the Southend Air Show this Bank Holiday?
The flying programme includes a Battle of Britain Memorial Flight, Wingwalk Formations and RAF Falcons display on Sunday, as well as performances from Blade, and Black 1 (Lynx Helicopter) on Monday. For details, visit www.visitsouthend.co.uk.