AN ICONIC aircraft display team will return to fly over the Fylde coast after they were spared the axe.
Prime Minister David Cameron has vowed to protect the Red Arrows if there are more defence cuts later in the year.
The RAF display team are regulars at Blackpool Air Show and fly from the resort’s airport when they perform or train in the North West.
And Sue Kendrick, corporate affairs manager at Blackpool International, said: “It’s very positive and it was all speculation they would be affected.
“They are so iconic and important to Britain that I couldn’t imagine them being scrapped.
“It’s good they’ve been supported by David Cameron because they are well loved in the North West and we love having them here. There’s always a buzz about the place and if the weather’s nice you can go to the dunes opposite the old Pontins site and watch them fly off.”
The world famous airmen have stayed at the Grand Hotel in St Annes for the last 10 years.
Derrick Holland, general manager at the Promenade hotel, said: “It would be unthinkable if they were scrapped.
“When they turn up at the hotel we are very proud of the fact they choose us.
“The Red Arrows are great family entertainment for young and old.
“When they display in the area it’s a great boost for everyone.
“From a hoteliers point of view we need them because everyone comes here to look up to the sky to see them.
“Most attractions for families are expensive nowadays and to lose the Red Arrows would have a negative impact.”
A spokesman for the Prime Minister said: “The PM has always thought the Red Arrows reflect everything great about Britain.
“It’s not just what they show about our military capabilities but also the skill, dedication and courage of the pilots.”
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