Details of the plans to celebrate the centenary of Louis Bleriot’s first cross-Channel flight next year have been revealed by the district council this week.

They include an attempt to recreate the historic flight by Swedish pilot Mikael Carlson flying one of his two Bleriot XI aeroplanes.

Throughout the weekend of July 25 and 26, Dover will host a prestigious international festival.

The weekend also marks the 50th anniversary of the first hovercraft crossing of the English Channel between Calais and Dover by Sir Christopher Cockerell.

Among the attractions will be a display by the Red Arrows, a procession of planes flying from Calais to Dover that will form part of an air pageant commemorating 100 years of aviation, and a spectacular firework display across Dover Harbour.

The seafront will be the venue for a number of Anglo-French and Anglo-Italian themed activities.

"This will be a truly memorable event that will play an important part in our continuing efforts to showcase Dover, its world class heritage, its town and its port," said district council leader Cllr Paul Watkins.

The council is working closely with colleagues in the Communauté d’Agglomération du Calaisis to ensure that the centenary celebrations are a prestigious showcase for Dover and Calais.

Further information about the celebrations can be found on the official Dover 2009 website (www.dover2009.com) which will also feature details of new events as they are confirmed over the coming months.