Aircraft extravaganza kicks off

6:13am Saturday 15th September 2007

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One of the best collections of aircraft anywhere in the world is set to swoop down on Sussex today for an aviation spectacular.

Organisers of Shoreham Airshow have put together an extraordinary number of planes and helicopters, including one of the largest ever post war gatherings of Battle of Britain planes.

Five Spitfires, three Hurricanes, a German ME 109 and two ME 108s will take part in a simulated attack on Shoreham Airport during the two day event which starts today.

The set piece will be complimented by anti-aircraft gunners using a spectacular pyrotechnic display.

A spokesman said: "This is set to be one of the biggest and best ever Shoreham Airshows ever and we are tremendously excited about every aspect of it."

On the ground will be a large array of ground displays and stalls. War veterans and a number of celebrities are expected to attend and mingle with the bumper crowds.

The weather is set fair for both days, with sun forecast today and only puffs of fair weather clouds expected on Sunday.

Other aerial displays will include the Guinot wingwalkers, the American B25 Mitchell and B17 "Sally B" bombers.

The Blades aerobatic team will also be on show.

The theme of the airshow is the "50th Anniversary of the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight". The flight, which includes a Lancaster bomber, Spitfire and Hurricane will fly past.

Tickets are available on both days. For further details visit shorehamairshow.com.

See The Argus on Monday for a full report, pictures and video of the day.