One of the world's top aerobatic display teams is offering to provide its services free of charge at next year's Clacton Air Show.

The Blades, who are all former Red Arrows pilots, will take to the skies over the town at no cost - provided enough people come forward to raise money for the RAF Association's Wings Appeal.

They are looking for about 20 people to commit to raise £2,000 each for the Wings Appeal under the partnership with Tendring District Council (TDC), organisers of the event.

As part of the deal those raising the cash for Wings Appeal will also get the chance to fly in formation with The Blades at their home base in Northamptonshire and to meet the team.

The Clacton Air Show will be celebrating its 21st birthday in August 2012 and is delighted to be working with The Blades and helping them to boost the Wings Appeal.

The RAF Association provides valuable support and help to current and former RAF personnel and their families. Each year more than 20,000 people across the UK and overseas benefit from their welfare work.

Stephen Mayzes, TDC's Cabinet Member for Tourism and Community Life, said that it was a novel proposition from The Blades.

"One of their team contacted us and it sounded like a very interesting idea," he said.

"The Blades appear regularly at the event and are one of our top attractions. To get them appearing for free would be a major boost whilst also raising money for the Wings Appeal and it seemed well worth pursuing with them.

"They are definitely one of the leading close formation aerobatic display teams in the world and would be a valuable addition to our line-up."

Phil Aiken, from The Blades, said it is an opportunity of a lifetime for those who take up the challenge.

"It is a great opportunity to fly with The Blades and raise money for people in need," he said.

"How people raise the money is entirely up to them, whether its walking or running, baking or car booting - all you need is to raise £2,000 and a flight with the Blades is there for the taking."

Anyone and everyone can take part, however the minimum age to fly with The Blades is 12 and parental consent is required for those under 18 years of age.
A fundraising pack with lots of exciting hints and tips will also be sent out to those fundraising.

Anyone interested should email Blades@rafa.org.uk or call 0116 268 8763 by the end of March 2012 and make it clear that they are taking up the challenge in conjunction with the Clacton Air Show.

19/12/11