THE Battle of Britain Memorial Flight’s Lancaster bomber is not expected to take to the skies at this year’s airshow.

A number of the memorial flight’s Second World War aircraft have been grounded by safety experts after a fault was found with the engine of one of its Hurricanes.

The popular Avro Lancaster and two Spitfires were due to represent the memorial flight at Clacton.

But a solo Spitfire – flown by Flt Lt Antony ‘Parky’ Parkinson – will now perform on both days of the show.

An RAF spokesman said: “A routine inspection has highlighted a fault with one of the Merlin engines in a Hurricane aircraft.

“We are currently investigating the fault and, as a precaution, flying of Merlin engine-powered aircraft has been paused.

“We are still operating Griffon-powered aircraft, including Spitfires and Chipmunks.

“We realise the disappointment this will be to many supporters and airshow organisers, however safety is our paramount concern.”

The flying line-up includes the world famous RAF Red Arrows, as well as the MiG-15, Strikemaster, P51-Mustang, Hurribomber, RAF Tutor, Team Raven and the Vampire Pair.

Also confirmed are the Tigers Parachute team and the Catalina.

The popular night flights – which were introduced for the first time last year – will be on Thursday and will involve Otto the helicopter, the Twister Duo Fireflies.

It will be followed by a firework display on Clacton Pier.

The event gets underway at West Greensward, Clacton, on Thursday and Friday from 11am.