AVIATION enthusiasts are in for a real treat next month as Blackpool Airport opens its doors to give the public a closer look at the planes.

The RAF's Red Arrows aerobatic team will be in town with their nine scarlet Hawks, along with swing-wing Tornados, a big Hercules transport plane, a vintage Hunter jet fighter, a Canberra bomber and old bi-planes, including a Tiger Moth. Aircraft normally used for carrying passengers on scheduled flights will operate pleasure flights along the Lancashire coast.

The viewing weekend on September 9 and 10 coincides with Southport's ninth annual air show and planes flying at the show will use the resort's airport as a base for crew briefings and refuelling, making Blackpool the hub of the event.

Former Red Arrows manager Ray Thilthorpe said: "For anyone who gets a kick out of aeroplanes and really dramatic flying displays this is a must.

"Scores of exciting and unusual aircraft will touch-down and take-off from Blackpool on their way to and from the skies over Southport. The atmosphere will be fantastic."