High tides could be a problem for the 70,000 people expected at the two-day Clacton air show.

Last minute preparations are under way but the high tides will limit the amount of beach space available to spectators.

The event, which takes place on Thursday and Friday, is expected to attract crowds of 70,000 over the two days.

But this year the high spring tide on Thursday is at 12.36pm and is expected to be 4m or over, depending on wind force and direction, and on Friday the high tide is at 1.18pm.

The show is due to start on both days at 1.45pm, with the Bolkow 105 flying into town.

It is expected that the beach along the main viewing area will be covered by water and visitors will have to find somewhere else to watch the different military planes, including the Jaguar, Battle of Britain Memorial flight and the famous Red Arrows.

Mike Page, spokesman for Tendring Council, said: "We fix the air show annually about the August Bank Holiday and start work on the next show as soon as the current one ends, that way we can be assured of the presence of highly valued participants in great demand.

"Tide tables do have some effect on our planning but do not weigh very heavily against all the other considerations."

Published Tuesday August 20, 2002

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