Police advice ahead of Blackpool Air Show as town prepares to welcome thousands of visitors
“Come and say hi!”
Blackpool Police have issued advice to visitors ahead of this week's Blackpool Air Show, as thousands of people prepare to descend on the resort for one of the town's biggest annual events.
The force said it is looking forward to welcoming crowds to the seafront, where aerial displays will take place along the promenade from 12pm to 4.30pm. However, officers are urging visitors to plan ahead and take simple precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable weekend.
As with any major event, police have warned that travel into Blackpool is expected to be busy and are encouraging people to check their journeys well in advance. Visitors are also being advised to consult Blackpool Council's website for details of road closures before travelling.
‘Please come and say hi!’
"We have many different teams out this weekend to ensure everything runs smoothly, including our Neighbourhood Teams, Mounted Branch, Drones, Firearms and Regional Police Marine Unit. If you see us, please come and say hi (or wave at our officers off shore!).
“We hope everyone has a fantastic visit but as always if something doesn’t feel right, trust your instincts and let one of our officers know."
Motorists are reminded to park only in designated parking areas and avoid leaving valuables on display inside vehicles. Police are also encouraging people to keep phones, wallets and other personal belongings securely stored on their person or in zipped bags while attending the event.
Families and groups are being urged to stay together in the large crowds, with officers recommending that visitors keep an eye on children, know what members of their group are wearing and agree on a meeting point in advance in case anyone becomes separated.
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Preparations are continuing across the resort for the popular air show, with an action-packed flying programme set to attract aviation enthusiasts from across the country.
Among the headline attractions will be the RAF Typhoon Display Team, returning with its trademark speed, power and noise across both days of the event. The iconic Cold War MiG-17 fighter jet, based in Poland, will make its English display debut over Blackpool, while the US-built P-47 Thunderbolt and P-51 Mustang will appear at the resort for the first time alongside the Suffolk Spitfire.
Saturday's programme will also feature the Red Devils, the British Army Parachute Regiment's elite parachute display team, while returning favourites include the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight with its Dakota, Hurricane and Spitfire.
Displays from the Aerosuperbatics Wingwalkers, Hawk, Harvard, The Ravens, Yaks, Calidus Autogyro, Muscle Pitts and XtremeAir are also scheduled. Blackpool Transport has said it will be going the extra mile to help residents and visitors travel to and from the event.