Coleraine Borough Council launched the event at East Strand Beach on Tuesday morning as guests welcomed three planes at the location which has recently received investment of artwork and facilities for visitors while enjoying the blue flag beach. This year’s title sponsor of the International Airshow is SPAR, who cheered on as the planes landed.
Once again the world’s best display team, the RAF Red Arrows will return with their brand new 2011 routine but the big news is that organisers, Coleraine Borough Council, has secured the first appearance in Northern Ireland for nearly 30 years of the astonishing Vulcan bomber. She has only recently returned to the skies and has been the biggest story in display aviation over the past 3 years thanks to her unique shape and unforgettable roar.
During the weekend event, each day will feature over 20 aerial displays featuring current jets, historic aircraft and privately owned machines.
With support from SPAR, Causeway SPAR Retail Group, Northern Ireland Tourist Board and Causeway Chamber of Commerce the hugely popular show will take place in Portrush during Saturday 3rd and Sunday 4th September commencing at 12 noon. In keeping with popular tradition, the family fun event will once again be free with no admission charge.
The strong line-up will guarantee another bumper weekend for the already busy town of Portrush and Council has hinted that there are still a few surprises to be announced.
Deputy Mayor of Coleraine Borough Council, Councillor William King attended the launch said, ”It is fantastic news to see our Airshow meet its 10th anniversary and this year’s line-up is the strongest I can remember. It is a sense of pride for Council and the residents to once again host the biggest Airshow in Ireland and we are grateful to Spar, NITB, the Chamber and our other sponsors for their vital support.”
Paddy Doody, Sales and Marketing Director at SPAR, said: “We are delighted to come onboard as the title sponsor at this year’s NI International Airshow. It is a fantastic event, perfect for the whole family and one which attracts thousands of tourists to Portrush over the two days. As neighbourhood retailers, we are keen to support events that bring the whole community together and the Airshow has proven, year after year, to be a must-attend event on Northern Ireland’s event calendar.
Wesley Wilkinson, Chairman of the Causeway SPAR Retail Group adds: “The International Airshow really has something for all the family and I would encourage everyone, whether a first time visitor or a seasoned air show aficionado, to come to the North Coast to enjoy this exciting programme of events.”
NITB Events Manager, Joy Bond, added “The Northern Ireland Tourist Board is delighted to support the 10th anniversary of this spectacular event. In the past decade, this airshow has grown from strength to strength and has continued to increase visitor appeal to the North Coast. We are confident that it will provide both locals and visitors alike with a truly memorable experience and we wish the organisers every success this year.”
The 90th Anniversary of the Royal British Legion will be marked with a parade of veterans and dropping of 4 million poppy petals from an Auster spotter plane during Sunday 4th September. In addition to all the activity in the air and on the sea, the ground will be packed with family arena shows, street theatre, motor exhibitions and craft stalls.
For full details contact Coleraine Borough Council on 028 70347234 www.colerainebc.gov.uk or www.niinternationalairshow.co.uk or follow on Facebook at www.facebook.com/portrushairshow.