Thousands take off to see model show

The weather stayed dry for those who went along to the popular Model Air Show at the park on the Staffordshire-Shropshire border yesterday and on Saturday.

A huge model aircraft display, featuring dozens of aeroplanes and helicopters, was the main attraction of the extravaganza.

The event, organised by the Wrekin Model Flying Club, also included stalls selling model aircrafts and parts, as well as a craft fair, children's fairground rides and a display of miniature boats.

James Morris, aged 24, of Wobaston Road, Fordhouses, Wolverhampton, was there to fly his £8,000 model aeroplane. Mr Morris, who is a member of the Lizard Hill Model Flying Club, said it was a real buzz to fly at the event.

"It's been great fun," he said. "I often fly my plane at Shifnal and I love coming to this event because so many people come along to watch.

"I've been coming here for the last six years. There is always a good turnout and I just love seeing the planes flying through the air."

Another model aircraft enthusiast, Craig Simmons, aged 38 and owner of the shop Black Country Models in Fordhouses, said the event had a great atmosphere.

Mr Simmons, of Parklands Road, Wednesbury, was there with his son Stefan, 14, and daughter, Rebecca, 13. "We've been coming here for the last five years," Mr Simmons said.

"I've been interested in model aircraft from the age of about nine and I love coming along to the air show to see all the different types of aircraft.

"My son actually took part in the model air display here this year and he takes part in a lot of competitions, so it's great practice for him." Stefan, who flew a remote controlled helicopter at the event, said: "I look forward to the air show here every year.

"This is the first year I've actually flown a model helicopter but I've been into them since I was born. It's a lot of fun." Rebecca added: "I like to come along to these events and to watch the flying. It's quite exciting and I like to support my brother."

Steve Bishop, one of the event organisers from the Wrekin club, said the event had been a huge success yet again.

"It's been fantastic," he said. "We've seen a lot more families this year which is great and a good turnout of flyers.

"We've also had people coming from all over the country as well as Europe."