Delighted organisers of the Lowestoft air show have announced the world-famous Red Arrows aerobatic team will once again grace the two-day spectacular.

Delighted organisers of the Lowestoft air show have announced the world-famous Red Arrows aerobatic team will once again grace the two-day spectacular.

The Royal Air Force confirmed the nine red and white hawks would give their spectacular display over both days of this year's event on July 26 and 27.

Their appearance will provide event managers with a major boost as they aim to emulate last year's 10th anniversary event when a record crowd of more than 420,000 attended over the two days.

Paul Bayfield, the air festival's managing director, said: “It goes without saying that the Red Arrows are the stars of the show and we are so pleased that we have been allocated them again this year. We are so proud and it means everything to the show.”

While the Red Arrows have been a regular feature of the seafront festival, Mr Bayfield stressed their appearance could never be guaranteed.

“We never take it for granted because there have been some very large shows elsewhere, which haven't had the Red Arrows,” he added.

Plans are well-advanced for this year's show and as well as the Red Arrows, the RAF has also confirmed that the historic aircraft of the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight will again be taking part, as will a search and rescue Sea King helicopter and an RAF Tucano.

Other early bookings include the distinctive Catalina, solo aerobatic ace Denny Dobson, the Blue Eagles helicopter display team from the Army Air Corps and freefall parachutists of the Princes of Wales's Royal Regiment.

More flying displays are expected to be announced shortly, but there will also be plenty to see at ground and sea level.

All available sites on the seafront for traders and caterers have already been booked and among the attractions will be a “meet the pilots” facility at the RAF display.

Lowestoft is gearing up for a four-day summer spectacular as, during the two days following the air show, on July 28 and 29, the Honda 4-Stroke Offshore Powerboat Championship will take place.

This will be the first time the powerboat grand prix has been held in Lowestoft and a drive-past of up to 40 boats is planned during the second day of the air show on Friday, July 27.

The Sunday afternoon will also feature the arrival at Royal Green of up to 1,000 motorcycles in the annual charity Eastern Lights Motorcycle Cavalcade.

An air show spokesman said: “These additional events have brought extra benefits for the air festival with increased interest being shown by many of the traders and caterers taking part, as well as sponsors and other supporters who have been contacted.”

For inquiries about sponsorship, contact Keith Moughton on 01502 523398 or email: keith.moughton@ waveney.gov.uk