AIRSHOW organisers say this year’s high-flying spectacle promises to be one of the best yet, despite it taking place in the shadow of the Shoreham tragedy.

The line-up includes the Red Arrows, Vulcan, Typhoon, a MiG fighter jet, the Sally B, BBMF, Chinook helicopter and the Tigers parachute display team.

The two-day event will be followed by the town’s first Food and Drink Festival over the weekend.

Council leisure boss Mick Skeels said he was looking forward to a “fantastic show” and hoping for good weather.

“All the plans and preparations have come together and all we can do now is wait in anticipation for the flights to fill the skies,” he said.

“As the last seaside East Coast airshow we will be expecting a huge turnout and it would be great if we can achieve the 200,000 people we had last year over the two days.

“It is a free event but we would ask people to remember to buy a programme or put some money in the bucket collection – or both – to ensure we meet this year’s costs and can plan for next summer.”

Mr Skeels said the show is a massive boost for the resort’s economy.

“While the show is a spectacle for our residents it is also aimed at bringing in visitors to the area and significantly boosting the economy of the district,” he added.

“We know that some families come and stay in the area for a few days and others just come for the show – and they are all welcome and we are sure they will have a great time in Tendring.”

One of the main attractions on the ground will be Titan the Robot, who will be making his third appearance at the airshow at 11am and noon each day on the Greensward.

Follow live updates on the airshow as it gets underway this afternoon on the Clacton Gazette website.