THE skies above Bowness will once again be the venue for the aeronautical acrobatics of some of the world’s most famous aeroplanes later this month, reports Paul Duncan.

Thousands of visitors are expected to converge on the Lake District on July 26 and 27 for the Windermere Air Show, a two-day festival of flying, featuring advanced fighter jets and helicopters, nostalgic displays from historic military aircraft and a host of ground-based attractions.

According to organisers the Rotary Club of Windermere this year’s event will feature more aircraft than ever before and for the first time includes civilian as well as RAF aircraft.

Highlights include the Yakovlevs Display team, which will be performing aerobatics on both days, while the RAF will be showcasing the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight which features the famous Spitfire and Dakota fighters.

Helicopters also feature heavily with an appearance from the massive Chinook Helicopter and the famous Sea King search and rescue helicopter will be performing over the lake.

The grand finale will take place on Sunday when the world-renowned RAF Falcons Parachute Display Team step into Lakeland skies from a Hercules C130 and organisers are also expecting a flypast from the Red Arrows.

Co-ordinator Rob McGraw said: “We are delighted that the RAF has been as supportive as ever, and want to thank them for their contributions over the past seven years. The air show is always great fun and raises lots of money for local charities.”

On the ground, a military village is being constructed by the armed forces which will feature a variety of hands on attractions including displays and a climbing wall and displays.

The Earl of Loudon’s Regiment of Foote – a Civil War re-enactment society – will be performing mock battles and skirmishes with muskets and cannon and there will be vintage military vehicles, birds of prey performances, miniature steam train rides and live brass band music.

The event raises thousands for numerous charities and this year the emphasis is on causes supporting local children, the South Lakeland Alzheimers Society, and The Great North Air Ambulance.

For full details, visit the website on www.windermere-rotary.org.uk.