A gala dinner is to be held the night before this year’s Clacton Airshow takes off

21 Jun A gala dinner is to be held the night before this year’s Clacton Airshow takes off

A gala dinner is to be held the night before this year’s Clacton Airshow takes off.

Black Jacket Events, which runs the VIP area during the two-day airshow, is organising the gala event which will help raise funds for the Royal Air Forces Association (RAFA).

It is one of a number of ways the 2018 Clacton Airshow, organised by Tendring District Council (TDC), is honouring 100 years since the end of the First World War – and the centenary year of the RAF.

Leading the commemorations will be the RAF Battle of Britain Memorial Flight, with a Lancaster bomber and two Spitfires taking to the skies above Clacton seafront on both days of the airshow.

Flown by serving RAF crew, the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight aims to maintain the planes in an airworthy condition as part of the national heritage.

On the ground at the airshow, which takes place on August 23-24, RAFA will have a stand to raise awareness of their work, while TDC’s Tommy statue will also be on display.

This year’s programme is also themed around 100 years since the end of the First World War, with a commemorative front cover to match.

There are also a number of active RAF aircraft already confirmed for the flying programme, including the RAF Red Arrows and the RAF Typhoon.

Tickets for the gala dinner, taking place on Clacton seafront, cost £25 and include a two-course meal, a welcome drink and live music. To book, call 01206 827883.

Anyone wanting information about sponsorship opportunities, hospitality, or trade space at Clacton Airshow 2018 should contact 01255 686683 or 01255 686623.