AN ICONIC Red Arrows jet has set up in Broadgate as part of Coventry’s Royal Air Force centenary celebrations.
The three-day festival will feature a number of military vehicles, static displays, stands and exhibitions with events beginning from 9am on Friday (July 6) in Broadgate in the city centre.
The weekend will also feature a series of flypasts by historic aircrafts including Dakota planes and the Red Arrow display team’s Hawk jets.
The event has been organised by Lord Mayor John Blundell, and leading UK businessman Sir Peter Rigby to mark the city’s long association with the RAF.
The star attraction will be the static BAE Systems Hawk aircraft which is positioned in front of the Lady Godiva statue.
Visitors will also have the opportunity to sit in the aircraft cockpit.
The Red Arrows – the RAF display team – fly the famous jets during their aerobatics displays.
All displays will be open in Broadgate from 9am to 5pm on Friday and Saturday.
They will open on Sunday at between 10am to 3pm while a Dakota from the Battle of Britain’s Memorial Flight will fly over Coventry city centre at 3.20pm.
The weekend will culminate with a VIP lunch for 120 dignitaries hosted by the Lord Mayor and Sir Peter Rigby at St Mary’s Guildhall followed by a service of celebration at Coventry Cathedral, which is also open to the general public, from 3.45pm to 5.15pm.
And Coventry Airport will host a static nine-piece aircraft display from 10am to 4pm on Friday, Saturday and Sunday.
Lord Mayor Blundell, said: “Our city has strong links with the RAF and our country’s amazing aircraft and it is very fitting that we stage this three day celebration.
“It will give the people of our city a fascinating look into the world of the Royal Air Force and celebrate our links with the service and the aviation industry and I know a lot of people will be excited to see such iconic aircraft up close.
“The service personnel of the RAF have protected and helped people around the world so well, and now it is our chance to say thank you. I hope the people of Coventry join the celebrations and enjoy what will be a very special weekend.”
