Shropshire Star

50,000 flock to RAF Cosford Air Show 2016

More than 50,000 people turned out at RAF Cosford today for the military base's annual air show.

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Organisers had to open the gates ahead of schedule with eager visitors ready to get started up to half an hour early.

The airbase, near Albrighton, saw enthusiasts attend from around the country after organisers promised it would be bigger and better than ever.

The show included static aircraft displays, interactive shows and engineering specialists.

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Carol Fourie, visitor experience assistant, welcomed visitors through the gates of the first hangar, along with colleague Martin Rogers-Dodson.

The pair said there was a real "buzz" around the site with thousands of people arriving within the first hour.

She said: "We have lots of aircraft from the museum on display including the Comet, the first passenger jet airliner, which is very interesting.

"We also have missiles to look at, which a lot of people enjoy.

"We had people chomping at the bit to get in. We were supposed to open the doors of the hangar at 8.30am and by 8am there were lots waiting to come in.

"So the crowds have been flowing in all day."

Mr Rogers-Dodson said: "There is always a real buzz, especially before the show itself.

"We are here to make sure everyone has the best experience they can."

Visitors could look inside four of the base's hangars – three of which are not usually open to the public – as well as around the stalls and exhibitions.

Shortly after midday the main event was held with the RAF Red Arrows taking to the skies.

The headline act used some of its new moves at the event with their signature red, white and blue smoke.

The Red Arrows were also in a joint flypast with a King Air, to highlight the aircraft's role in flying training.

The RAF Chinook Display Team then wowed crowds as the helicopter performed a manoeuvre display.

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