THE world famous Spitfire and Hurricane fighters are late additions to this year’s Festival of Flight in Newcastle.
The iconic World War Two fighters will take the place of the Lancaster bomber which suffered an engine fire earlier this year and was withdrawn from the show.
The highlight of the event will once again be the Red Arrows who will be swooping in over Dundrum Bay and across the Mourne Mountains on Saturday, August 8.
Around 100,000 people are expected to flock to the region to enjoy the aerial extravaganza and, while many will seek viewing spots along scenic Dundrum Bay, the majority of visitors will converge on Newcastle. The town has responded with a full programme of mainly free family entertainment, stretching over the Festival weekend.
The 2015 programme has a twin focus, with events centred on the ever-popular Newcastle
Promenade where flight-fanciers traditionally gather to see the aerial display, and at an exciting Aviation Village at nearby Castle Park.
Newry, Mourne and Down District Council chairwoman, Naomi Bailie, said: “For generations Newcastle has built its appeal on a great blend of natural attributes and a cheerful, family-friendly atmosphere.
“The B/E Aerospace Festival of Flight reflects that approach and we are presenting a fantastic choice of attractions which will entertain the whole family, without breaking the bank.
“Our air show will take off at approximately 2.45pm on Saturday but we are hoping that our visitors will choose to arrive early and stay late, making the most of a day that’s packed with fun and a town that’s brim-full of visitor attractions.”
Chief amongst those attractions will be the Aviation Village, open at Castle Park in the town centre from 10.00am.
Air Cadets from across the county will be on duty, offering young visitors have-a-go sessions at everything from laser clay pigeon shooting to an inflatable assault course. There will also be an opportunity to climb on board an RAF Jet Provost cockpit for a taste of what it might be like to rule the skies.
The Ulster Aviation Society will also be on hand, bringing their expert knowledge to a lively exhibition which will run in Newcastle Library from August 3-8 and showcasing their fabulously restored ‘Down’ Spitfire Mark II plus a host of historical artefacts in the Aviation Village.
For further information or a free copy of the Festival programme please contact Newcastle Visitor Centre on 028 4372 2222 or full listings online at www.facebook.com/DownFestivals