SWANSEA’S Wales Airshow had a fantastic weekend with hundreds of thousands of people enjoying the country’s biggest free outdoor event.
Two days of flying featuring The Red Arrows, the RAF Typhoon and many other displays delighted visitors from across the UK.
The Swansea Council-organised event saw huge crowds enjoy a wide range of interactive displays, activities and live entertainment on the ground as well as seeing the action in the air.
New features included a Veterans’ Village to honour all ex-Service people. Visitors celebrated the significant contributions made to the UK by those who serve and have served in the forces.
The show marked Wales Armed Forces Day, with Saturday activity including a stage ceremony and entertainment. An original song, written by a group of veterans, was performed publicly for the first time at the event.
Cabinet member Robert Francis-Davies said: “Swansea does more than ever to salute those who serve in the forces; our airshow activity helped visitors acknowledge the contribution of our veterans, reservists, cadet forces and volunteers.
“As one of the highlights of the annual Swansea events calendar, the airshow was a huge success, continuing to support the city’s reputation as a top-class venue for major events.
“The stars of the free-entry show included the hundreds of thousands who enjoyed a day out or a weekend in Swansea. The family atmosphere resulted in a great weekend.
“The airshow contributes millions of pounds to the local economy and we thank local businesses and residents for their patience with the road closures, and to all traders for their contribution to the latest show’s success.
“We also appreciate the understanding of those whose daily routines were affected by the road changes implemented for everyone’s safety.”
He paid tribute to the effort put in by council staff, emergency services, show sponsors and other council partners who helped make the event a top-quality showcase for the city.
Swansea has a wide range of top-class events this year, including the World Triathlon Para Series Swansea on June 22, IRONMAN 70.3 Swansea on July 14, and three days of music in Singleton Park from July 18-20. More info: www.enjoyswanseabay.com
This year’s sponsors included Aerodyne, Day’s Rental, First Cymru, FRF DS Swansea, FRF Toyota, Great Western Railway, Greatest Hits Radio, Lidl, Radnor Hills, Royal British Legion, Transport for Wales and Travel House.
Next year’s Wales Airshow is due to take place on July 5 and 6.
