FISTS flew in a mass brawl as thousands turned out for a free airshow.

Several men and women, including one holding a baby, were involved in the fight just as the Red Arrows took to the skies at Airbourne in Eastbourne on Saturday.

The brawl, which took place on Western Lawns near the climbing wall, was witnessed by dozens of people with police reporting that many were left upset and shaken by the incident.

The dispute is thought to have centred around a catering van between 4pm and 4.30pm.

Last night police were appealing for anyone who may have photographed or videoed the fracas to make contact with officers.

An Eastbourne Borough Council spokeswoman said the brawl was dealt with promptly.

She said: “There was an incident on Saturday afternoon and it was dealt with promptly by police who were on site working at the airshow, with minimal impact upon visitors at the event.

"Eastbourne Borough Council is unable to comment any further on what is a police matter.”

Despite the seriousness of the incident, Sussex Police used playful wording in their Twitter appeal which prompted criticism from other users on the social media website.

The force tweeted: “Police are looking for witnesses to when fists flew faster than the Red Arrows at Eastbourne Airbourne on Saturday."

Another Twitter user responded: "Sussex Police are looking also for their tact, diplomacy, intelligence and integrity, last seen in the vicinity of 1960."

A 43-year-old man from Caterham and a 42-year-old woman from Eastbourne were arrested on suspicion of assault occasioning actual bodily harm. They were both bailed until September 15.

Otherwise the event was a huge success with thousands taking to the beach, parks and Beachy Head to watch some of the best loved aircrafts.

As well as the Red Arrows, the Vulcan - Britain's Cold War nuclear bomber - made its last appearance at the event and the Blades Display Team saw visitors crane their necks in awe at their aerobatics.

Anyone with information or who took pictures or footage of the incident should call police on 101 or email 101@sussex.pnn.police.uk quoting 1169 of August 15. Alternatively call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.