Southend Airport is to play a key role in the Clacton Seafront Airshow as many aircraft use it as their base during the two-day display.

Pilots and crew from across the country have chosen to come to the town next Thursday and Friday because of the traditional friendly welcome they receive, according to airport director Roger Campbell.

He said: "Time and again the aircraft crews return to Southend, not only because we require the necessary operational facilities, but because we make them so welcome. Most of the crew are familiar faces to us.

"The pilots and crew also like the town itself and find the hospitality and friendliness of the Southend people to their liking and look forward to coming back."

Airport marketing co-ordinator Diane Hollander said: "We were surprised by the numbers of people who turned out over the May Bank Holiday for the airshow here, despite the adverse weather conditions.

"We're sure many will visit us again to see the aircraft they know and love. On this occasion they will have to view the airfield from the fence or airport terminal, but we'll still make them very welcome."

Visitors to the airport next Thursday and Friday can expect to see many of their favourite aircraft, including:

Tornado, arriving on Wednesday, leaving late on Friday

Harrier, arriving on Thursday morning, leaving midday Saturday

Tucano, arriving early afternoon on Thursday, leaving early afternoon on Friday

Memorial flight with the Lancaster, Spitfire and Hurricane, arriving late afternoon on Wednesday, leaving Friday lunchtime.

For more information about the airport visit their website www.southendairport.net

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