Folkestone Airshow got off to a breathtaking start with a stunning display by the RAF Red Arrows.

Crowds gazed up in amazement as the nets first roared overhead at noon today over The Leas in Folkestone.

They spent the next 22 minutes flying in formation, corkscrewing and twisting watched by the stunned spectators.

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The jets gave off their trademark trails of red, blue and white smoke travelling thousands of feet overhead and going as fast as 400 mph.

Rain that had threatened the day and pelted down in the morning had stopped in time for this air display, the first for today and tomorrow’s show, leaving glorious sunshine.

The Leas and Harbour area of Folkestone was filled with visitors and static displays such as those of a Second World War Hawker Hurricane and Spitfire.

Other displays include lines of classic cars and an Armed Forces Village, which included men dressed as wartime paratroopers.

Around 200,000 people were anticipated at the airshow this weekend.

Video: The RAF Red Arrows put on a dramatic display

Another major display was the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight.

Entertainment continued in the evening with music from the Abba tribute group Bjorn Again, followed by a fireworks display.

Displays on Sunday include those by RAF Search and Rescue’s Sea King Helicopter and parachutists from the Tigers Freefall Team.

Thin Lizzy tribute act Think Lizzy and Soul Monkeys are among the bands on the main stage of Folkestone Seafront.