The British Army’s world-famous Red Devils parachute team will be jumping into action as night starts to descend on this summer’s Clacton Classic Airshow.
The elite unit of the Parachute Regiment will be showcasing the immense capabilities of the Army’s paratroopers during the twilight display programme on the first day of the two-day spectacle, which starts on Thursday, 22 August.
The twilight flights have proved to be a real crowd-pleaser since they were first introduced at the Tendring District Council-run (TDC) event in 2015 – and give people working during the day the chance to join the fun.
The Red Devils are a fitting addition to this year’s show, which will be commemorating the 80th anniversary of D-Day, the Allied invasion of Nazi-occupied France that began the liberation of Europe in the Second World War.
The Red Devils began in 1964 to boost public engagement and recruitment for the British Army – their moniker being coined in 1942 after the Parachute Regiment was deployed to North Africa.
The elite unit is made up from 15 highly-skilled paratroopers who remain serving members of the Parachute Regiment and can be recalled to duty at any time.
Ivan Henderson, TDC Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Economic Growth, Regeneration and Tourism, said: “The world-renowned Red Devils will put on a truly thrilling show – jumping from an aircraft high in the sky above Clacton before showcasing their aerial skills and then landing on the beach as twilight descends on the Essex Sunshine Coast.
“The display will delight enthusiasts of all ages and will be particularly popular with younger flight fans.
“Troops of the British 6th Airborne Division, which is part of the Parachute Regiment, were dropped into Normandy in the early hours on June 6, 1944, paving the way for the liberation of Europe.
“So, not only will it be an exciting display, but it will be fitting to welcome the Red Devils to Clacton for the first time as we honour the brave men who fought to liberate Europe on D-Day.”
Returning to the evening line-up will also be the ever-popular Otto the helicopter, which will fill the sky with fireworks, smoke and noise, while the brightly-lit Firebirds will give a swirling aerobatic display topped off with more pyrotechnics.
“The twilight display at the airshow is tremendous and grows in popularity year on year,” added Councillor Henderson.
“As the sun sets, the sparkling lights, smoke and fireworks are a sight to behold and a real treat for flight fans – the atmosphere is great and the displays are truly thrilling.
“So, why not stay on after the daytime display to try out one of Clacton’s many excellent restaurants – or plan an overnight stay - before enjoying the dazzling evening schedule.”
The twilight display is sponsored by Clacton-based Red Nova IT Solutions, which is also one of the event’s main sponsors.
Rob Norris, of Red Nova IT Solutions, said: “It’s a pleasure to be able to sponsor this amazing twilight display, which will no doubt be one of the highlights of this year’s airshow.
“We’re delighted to support the airshow – it’s the jewel in the crown of the Essex Sunshine Coast’s summer and long may it continue.”
Airshow organisers have already announced a host of heritage aircraft that will be taking to the skies for the Clacton Classic Airshow on 22 and 23 August, including aeroplanes from the First and Second World Wars and the post-war period, as well as a specially commissioned D-Day Formation.
For updates and more information on the 2024 Clacton Classic Airshow people should visit www.clactonairshow.com, follow @clactonairshow on Twitter, or go to the official Facebook event.
