Airshow's fireworks axed after wildfire warning

Fireworks planned for the final day of the Eastbourne International Airshow have been cancelled following the government’s severe wildfire warning.

The decision was made as a precaution to protect the public, amid concerns over the heightened risk of fires during the current hot and dry conditions.

The government’s warning was issued to mobile phones across the UK on Friday, the same day it emerged that 19 homes had been destroyed and another 18 damaged by a major fire in Stourbridge, West Midlands.

The cancellation comes after organisers also confirmed earlier this week that the Red Arrows would be unable to perform at the airshow because they remain in Canada following bad weather.

Jenny Williams, Eastbourne Council’s tourism spokesperson, said cancelling the fireworks was the responsible decision in the interests of public safety.

Despite the changes to the programme, she said there was still plenty for visitors to see at the event.

“There's still much to enjoy at this year's airshow,” Williams said, highlighting the RAF Typhoon and MiG-17 fast jets, The Starlings, B-17 bomber Sally B, military ground attractions and the Red Devils parachute display.

The airshow began on Thursday and is scheduled to finish on Sunday, when the fireworks display had been due to take place.

Williams encouraged visitors to attend while temperatures begin to ease.

“Now the temperature is cooling a little, this is the perfect time to visit the show and enjoy some of Europe's best display teams,” she said.