No Red Arrows? No Problem! Council Leader Stephen Holt on Airbourne

IT’S Thursday and the start of Airbourne, Eastbourne’s four-day spectacular airshow which draws hundreds of thousands of visitors to the town.

Yes, there is the disappointment this year that the Red Arrows won’t be coming – they are sadly grounded in Canada.

But, in this exclusive interview with Eastbourne Borough Council Leader Stephen Holt, he says that won’t matter.

He says despite this blow, it’s going to be great – four days of sun and spectacular air displays.

The weather is looking really good – and hopes are high this will be another great success for our town.

First, let’s deal with the Red Arrows.

Wing Cdr Sasha Nash, officer commanding the RAF aerobatic team, said: “We are very sorry the Red Arrows cannot participate at these events and we are grateful to organisers and communities for their understanding.

“Every effort is being made to ensure the Red Arrows can recommence the busy display season as soon as possible.

“However, safety is the only factor that will determine the timing of the team’s return from Canada.”

Other RAF aircraft, including the Typhoon display team and Battle of Britain Memorial Flight (BBMF), remain part of an extensive line-up at Eastbourne.

And that’s the key message from Eastbourne Borough Council.

With temperatures set to soar once again during Airbourne, Eastbourne Borough Council is also urging residents and visitors to take extra care to help prevent fires and keep everyone safe.

Hundreds of thousands of people are expected in Eastbourne this week to enjoy the UK’s biggest free seafront airshow, with many also visiting the South Downs and surrounding countryside.

Following multiple fires on the downland recently, the council is reminding people that the landscape remains extremely dry and vulnerable, with even a small spark capable of causing significant damage. The warning also comes as firefighters continue to tackle a major wildfire in the New Forest.

Councillor Jim Murray, Cabinet Member for Carbon Neutral 2030 and Water Champion, said: “Airbourne is one of the highlights of the year and we’re looking forward to welcoming visitors from across the country to Eastbourne.

“The forecast hot weather is great for enjoying the airshow, but it also brings an increased risk of fires. Recent blazes on the Downs have been a stark reminder of how quickly fires can start and spread when conditions are dry.

“Whether you’re watching the displays on the seafront, enjoying a picnic or exploring the South Downs, we’re asking everyone to take extra care and remain vigilant.

“Simple actions can make a real difference. Please dispose of cigarettes responsibly, take your litter home and avoid anything that could accidentally start a fire. By working together, we can help ensure everyone enjoys a safe and memorable Airbourne weekend.”

The council is advising people to:

• Dispose of cigarettes carefully and ensure they are fully extinguished.
  
• Never leave glass bottles or broken glass, which can magnify sunlight and ignite dry vegetation.

• Observe signs prohibiting barbecues and campfires.

• Use bins provided or take litter home.

• Be alert to any signs of smoke or fire and call 999 immediately if a fire is spotted.

Eastbourne Borough Council is continuing to work closely with East Sussex Fire & Rescue Service and local partners throughout Airbourne.

The council is also reminding visitors to drink plenty of water, wear a hat, use sunscreen and seek shade where possible during the hottest parts of the day.