Preparations begin for Cosford Air Show

Bosses of Cosford Air Show are working around the clock to prepare the site ready to welcome tens of thousands of aviation enthusiasts for the spectacular this weekend.

Equipment and supplies, including hundreds of portable toilets, have been arriving at RAF Cosford over the weekend in preparation for the big day on Sunday. Teams have been cutting and marking the grass with military precision to create thousands of parking bays. And over the next few days yellow traffic signs will start to appear on surrounding roads.

The first tents and structures will also be installed.

Show co-ordinator Amanda Butcher said: "As the weekend approaches the pace increases with the arrival of the funfair, tables and chairs, barrier and the various displays and exhibition stands.

"The excitement builds on Friday when the first aircraft start arriving.

"With the biggest ever line-up of static aircraft, a number of visiting aircraft and an exciting flying display lasting almost six hours, scheduling the aircraft arrival times is a science in itself.

"With all this planning and preparation the only other thing that is needed is some reasonably dry weather."

The last week before the bumper show usually sees a surge in ticket sales and outlets are standing by in preparation for the last minute rush.

Flypasts by The Red Arrows, Battle of Britain Memorial Flight, the Swordfish of the Royal Naval Historic Flight and Royal Navy helicopters will be among the main attractions of the aviation spectacular.

All four were due to perform for The Queen as part of her Diamond Jubilee celebrations but the Swordfish and the helicopters had to pull out because of bad weather.

Tickets for the show cost £20 for adults in advance. Admission is free for children under 16.

For more information on the event visit www.cos fordairshow.co.uk.