Spectacular air show dazzles crowds

Families and aircraft fans visited the Abingdon Airfield at Dalton Barracks for the 16th show held in support of the Thames Valley and Chiltern Air Ambulance Trust, which is rebranding to become Thames Valley Air Ambulance.

And despite the unpredictable weather, crowds were able to see spectacular flying displays and view other attractions around the the showground.

The air show was organised by a committee of six who started planning in September.

Committee member Colin Smith said: “This is one of the most popular charity events and we, as a committee, are very proud of how it has turned out. We have been going for 16 years and hopefully we can go for another 16 or even more years.

“We are here for the Thames Valley and Chiltern Air Ambulance and I think it’s important to recognise the whole show is put together by volunteers.”

The number of flying displays was dependent on the weather and Mr Smith said conditions were “vitally important” for the shows to go ahead.

Six-year-old Billy Brooks watches the flying displays

Billy Brooks, six, from Abingdon, attended the air show with his mother Debbie and father John.

Mrs Brooks said: “We have been for the past three years – Billy loves it.

“It was really good. We got washed out in the end, but were able to see the Spitfire and Typhoon display.”

This year’s event paid tribute to the Battle of Britain, which took place 75 years ago, when RAF Fighter Command stopped the Luftwaffe gaining air superiority over Britain in the Second World War.

The display featuring the Spitfire, which was flown by Antony Parkinson, and the Typhoon FGR4, flown by Flt Lt Ben Westoby-Brooks, brought together the RAF’s air defence from 1940 and 2015.

 Visitors enjoyed rides in a FV435 armoured command post vehicle

And visitors could sit in fighter jet cockpits, see classic cars or views birds of prey in flight.

Head of fundraising for the charity Sarah Williamson said: “It’s amazing, we have had great support this year.”