A RE-ENACTMENT of the D-Day landings will propel Shoreham Airshow visitors back to the war-torn beaches of Normandy next weekend.

Audiences will be treated to the special performance to mark the 70th anniversary of the invasion, which will also commemorate of the centenary of the beginning of the First World War.

The air show will take place on Saturday and Sunday at Shoreham airport, to raise funds for the Royal Air Forces Association.

Its regular airfield attack and scramble display will adopt the special theme but organisers have promised that the popular appearance of actors in character as members of the Home Guard – in a nod to TV comedy Dad’s Army – will return next year.

A First World War team will fly nine aircraft to depict how aerial combat changed during the conflict.

The scenes, which unfold at the oldest licensed airfield in Britain, will form just a portion of a host of attractions at the event, which this year celebrates its 25th anniversary.

At least 50 different aircraft will be gliding through the skies during hours of displays. There will be model aeroplane demonstrations, 70 trade stalls, a chance to meet pilots, and a static aircraft exhibition.

Aircrafts such as the Avro Vulcan B2 XH558 will return on Saturday, alongside displays from the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight, wing-walkers and a new US Navy tribute to aircraft used in the Pacific, Korea and Vietnam wars. Flying display director Rod Dean described the Lancaster Bomber’s appearance as the “icing on the cake” and said the appearance will attract visitors from as far afield as Japan and Australia.

It is hoped the volunteer-run event will hit a £2 million target to make it the largest charity fundraising air show in the country.

Press officer John Periam said record crowds were expected during the two-day event, which originally started out as a garden party.

He said: “This is a great family day out and so far advance ticket sales have soared.”

There is free parking at Shoreham airport, Adur Recreation Ground and a shuttle bus from Shoreham station during the event.

To buy tickets, call 01903 282360 or visit 90 outlets across Hampshire, Sussex and Surrey. For details, visit www.shorehamairshow.co.uk l Don’t miss our preview and listings of Shoreham Airshow in The Argus tomorrow and Friday, plus a picture special on Monday