ORGANISERS of Margate’s first air show are determined it will be a high flying success.

The spectacular event designed to bring thousands of visitors to the area will be held on Saturday, June 18, and Sunday, June 19.

Margate Air Show will be centred on the seafront in Palm Bay, Cliftonville, and will be sponsored by budget airline EUJet that is based at Kent International Airport, Manston.

Thanet council has appointed event management company Tonge International to put on the show, and the specialists will co-ordinate all air and ground activities.

It currently manages the Southport Air Show and Military Display, which they have developed into one of the largest events in the North West of England.

Their involvement began in 2001 when Sefton council's tourism division identified the need to enhance and expand the show.

Cllr Roger Latchford, Thanet council cabinet member for Leisure, Culture and Tourism, said: "We are delighted to be launching the air show, which should help to attract tens of thousands of people to our area and no doubt expand the number of visitors who come here from both the UK and overseas.

“Margate is the perfect venue for this type of event and I can promise everyone that there will be stunning views of the aerial displays from the clifftop at Palm Bay.”

He said the new venture, together with established events including Broadstairs Folk Week and the Ramsgate Powerboat grand Prix, will make it “an exciting summer for Thanet.”

Stuart McGoldrick group commercial director at EUJet, said: "We are proud to put our name to the inaugural Margate Air Show as part of our on-going support for the local community. As a major local employer, and one so intrinsically linked with leisure and the pleasures of flying, we are pleased to be the key sponsor and are looking forward to a superb event which will really see Thanet reaching for the skies this summer."

Charlie Grimley, Tonge International event manager commented: "We are convinced that airshow will provide the local people with a spectacular flagship event, while providing a focal point for encouraging more tourists to visit the resort.

“We have been astounded by the level of interest and support we have received from local people, businesses and the media and this can only assist Tonge International and Thanet council in delivering a fantastic airshow that offers a dynamic and fun filled experience for visitors of all ages."

The event includes a spectacular air display involving the latest jets, vintage and World War II aircraft, parachute displays and much more.

It is hoped the world famous Red Arrows will be added to the line up.

There will also be an extensive and diverse range of on-ground activities, many of them interactive, including trade stands, exhibits, lifestyle features, military vehicles, static displays, assault courses, musical entertainment and various rides and activities for children.

Organisers say tickets will be on sale during February from as little as £5 and booking early will guarantee significant savings. Children under the age of seven will be admitted free and must be accompanied by an adult.

Cllr Latchford said: " We are expecting demand to be high for tickets and the earlier you book, the cheaper they will be."

Mr Grimley said: "We have decided to sell the tickets with immediate effect due to the enthusiasm and support that the local people have displayed towards the air show. Our aim is to pre-sell all the tickets".

*Tickets are now on sale at Margate Winter Gardens box office, telephone 01843 292795 or 296111. Businesses wishing to get involved should contact Tonge International on 0845 0522154. Opportunities include sponsorship, hospitality, trade stands, programme advertising and on-site exposure opportunities.