It's up, up and away for air show extravaganza

Strong winds may have proven too much for the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight - but there were still plenty of other thrills and spills for spectators on a packed Prom for Blackpool Air show.

Blustery conditions made life difficult for spectators and pilots alike.

With the windspeed too high to allow the historic aircraft to fly it was up to some of the younger guns to wow the crowds.

The Fylde coast’s own Typhoon was among the early thrills - making the earth tremble in an deafening display of brute strength.

But it wasn’t only military kit on display.

The skies above the Promenade were filled with smoke as the Wing Walkers, strapped to their byplanes, were involved in high-flying feats of daring.

Thousands packed onto the sea front for the displays which also features the Twisters, Autogyro and Team Raven.

But the undoubted stars of the show were the Red Arrows.

Appearing on the Blackpool skyline bang on 4pm their 25 minute display was a stunning symphony of red, white and blue - the high intensity twists and turns looking effortless even in the face of a stiff sea breeze.

Among those watching was Erin Wilson, 8, from Dumfries.

She said: “We came to Blackpool specially for the show.

“It’s brilliant, watching the planes on the Prom.

“My favourite is the Red Arrow, they are so exciting.

“The Typhoon was so loud, I had my fingers in my ears.”

Mum Audrey, 34, said: “We stumbled on the air show by accident a few years ago.

“We’ve been two or three times since.

“It’s brilliant seeing the front so packed.”

Bobby Howe, 8, from Oldham was also watching.

He said: “I can’t wait for the Red Arrows.

“That’s the best bit of the show.

“It’s really good seeing the tricks they do.”

The Air Show continues on Monday at 1.30pm.

Should the weather improve the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight should be in the skies at 2.45pm.