A POPULAR plane is set to return to the Clacton skies after a four-year absence at this year’s airshow.

The twin engine Beech King Air will swoop into sight on August 25 - the first day of the annual airborne spectacular.

It has been used by the RAF since 2004 as a training craft to help young pilots earn their wings.

This will mark the King Air’s first Clacton Airshow appearance since 2012.

It will take to the skies alongside the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight Spitfire, Hurricane and Lancaster, as well as the world-famous Red Arrows and the last airworthy B-17 – the Sally B.

Mick Skeels, events boss at Tendring Council – which organises the show – said: “The team that sits behind the event always works very hard to arrange an exciting varied mix of aircraft and displays, and this year will be no different.

“We are always looking to attract record crowds and with the number of airshows around the country likely to be reduced due to new CAA regulations following Shoreham we hope that new flight fans will make the trip to the Tendring coast.

“As it is a special occasion – the 25th year of flying – and we want to make sure it will be a show to remember for all our residents and visitors.”