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RAF Battle of Britain Memorial Flight to join Clacton Airshow 2025 in poignant commemoration of the end of Second World War

RAF Battle of Britain Memorial Flight to join Clacton Airshow 2025 in poignant commemoration of the end of Second World War

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Spitfire_P7350_-3__Photographer–Darren_Harbar


The iconic RAF Battle of Britain Memorial Flight will be joining this summer’s Clacton Airshow – as we commemorate the 80th anniversary of the end of the Second World War.

Staged by Tendring District Council (TDC), the 32nd Clacton Airshow promises to be an exhilarating event, with a thrilling programme of flights – including the RAF Red Arrows on both days – and a whole host of activities on the ground.
The Battle of Britain Memorial Flight is set to take to the skies in Clacton with the celebrated Supermarine Spitfire – which was critical in defeating Luftwaffe air attacks during the battle in 1940 – as well as the famous Hawker Hurricane and the Douglas C47 Dakota.

The mission of the flight, which is operated by regular RAF aircrew, is to maintain the priceless artefacts in an airworthy condition in commemoration those who have fallen in the service of the country – as well as promoting the RAF and inspiring future generations.

Councillor Ivan Henderson, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Economic Growth, Regeneration and Tourism at TDC, expressed his excitement about the return of the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight to Clacton.

“This historic flight continues to captivate audiences and is a real crowd favourite,” he said.
“The powerful roar of the engines is a signature sound of the Clacton Airshow, providing spectators along the seafront with an unparalleled close-up view of these legendary aircraft.

“Experiencing these majestic and iconic planes – symbols of the Battle of Britain and numerous other Second World War missions – is truly unforgettable.

“This year, marking the 80th anniversary of the end of the Second World War, will be especially poignant.
“With the dazzling RAF Red Arrows also set to perform, this year’s Clacton Airshow promises to be an extraordinary event – with even more flights to be revealed in the coming months.”

Also announced for the flight line-up is the return of the RAF Grob Tutor T1, which is used by the RAF to provide flying instruction – being easy to handle and fully aerobatic, the aircraft is excellent for teaching the basics of flight.

Enchanting immersive heritage trail launches in Tendring

Enchanting immersive heritage trail launches in Tendring

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Walton Tendring Witch Heritage Trail TDC April 25
Tendring Witch Heritage Trail – Location Walton.

Tendring District Council (TDC) has launched a new immersive storytelling experience in Manningtree, St Osyth, Harwich and Walton-on-the-Naze.

Stories of the Tendring Hundred communities affected by the Essex witch trials have been brought to life for the first time through augmented reality – accessed by smart phone – to offer visitors of all ages a living history experience.

Unique wooden benches and information boards that reflect each location’s history have been installed, with additional historic information available on the Essex Sunshine Coast website.

Alison Rowlands, Professor of European History at the University of Essex, has been instrumental to ensure the stories of those impacted by the witch trails are told authentically and resonate in today’s society.

She said: “It is wonderful to see the months of hard work coming to fruition.

“I’m thrilled to see the finished results in their local settings and hope many other people from our region will be inspired to visit them.”

Gary Scott, TDC Cabinet Member for Arts, Culture and Heritage was thrilled to see the trail unveiled.

“The Tendring Witch Heritage Trail is an immersive journey through our district’s past,” he said.

“It not only preserves our past, but it brings to life the rich stories that have shaped our history.

“The trail also commemorates the lives of the Tendring communities that were brutally persecuted for witchcraft in the 16th and 17th Centuries.

“The sculpted benches are absolutely charming, and the augmented reality experience offers another dimension that will fascinate visitors and residents alike.

“Promoting our heritage, attracting visitors and encouraging them to stay longer is a core part of Our Vision, the council’s corporate plan.”

The trail was made possible thanks to £49,385 of funding from the Rural England Prosperity Fund (REPF).

Flight fans get ready to soar as hospitality tickets go on sale for Clacton Airshow 2025

Flight fans get ready to soar as hospitality tickets go on sale for Clacton Airshow 2025

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Flight fans can make this summer’s Clacton Airshow even more spectacular by snapping up tickets to the high-flying events popular hospitality area.

Operated by the Black Jacket, the hospitality area offers a delightful two-course meal, canapés, and refreshments, all while enjoying an elevated viewing area for the breathtaking flight displays.

And there’s also shelter – just in case the weather on the Essex Sunshine Coast doesn’t play ball on 21-22 August.

Staged by Tendring District Council (TDC), Clacton Airshow 2025 promises to be a thrilling event, with a great programme of flights in the sky – including the RAF Red Arrows on both days – and a whole host of activities on the ground.

Credit: RAF Red Arrows two Hawk formation.
Credit: RAF Red Arrows two Hawk formation.

Nicola Denny, Operations Director at Thorrington-based Black Jacket Group, said she was looking forward to welcoming both new and returning guests the hospitality area.

“We’re absolutely buzzing to host the hospitality marquee at Clacton Airshow again,” she said.

“Hospitality tickets give you exclusive access to the show, away from the hustle and bustle.

“Centrally located, the hospitality area is perfectly set against the stunning backdrop of Clacton seafront.

“We can’t wait to team up with Tendring District Council to make this event a soaring success.”

Councillor Ivan Henderson, TDC Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Economic Growth, Regeneration and Tourism, said an exciting flight programme is currently being developed by the airshow team.

“Clacton Airshow is the East Coast’s premier airshow and one of the biggest events in Essex, regularly attracting 250,000 visitors over the two days,” he said.

“We invite people to make this wonderful occasion even more special by joining the festivities in the hospitality area.

“We’re thrilled to welcome back the Black Jacket Group, a Tendring-based firm, to run the hospitality area again this year.

“Clacton Airshow is important to the district’s economy – and it’s the support of the people that keeps this fantastic event flying high.”

Hospitality tickets include parking, a souvenir programme, welcome drinks, a selection of canapés, a main course and dessert, half a bottle of wine per person, and complimentary tea, coffee, and squash for children throughout the day. There will also be a full bar selection available, private toilet facilities, and the chance to meet the flight teams.

Hospitality tickets are available to purchase at www.blackjacket.uk/clacton-airshow, with prices at £65 for Thursday and £58 for Friday.

For all hospitality enquiries, including dietary requirements or area access information and facilities, contact the Black Jacket team at events@blackjacketgroup.co.uk or call 01206 827883.

RAF Red Arrows to headline both days of Clacton Airshow 2025

RAF Red Arrows to headline both days of Clacton Airshow 2025

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The magnificent Red Arrows will be making a thrilling return to the Essex Sunshine Coast to headline this summer’s Clacton Airshow.

The Royal Air Force Aerobatic Team, one of the world’s premier aerobatic display team, will perform on both days of the 32nd Clacton Airshow, taking place on 21-22 August.

Representing the speed, agility, and precision of the Royal Air Force, the team serves as the public face of the service and act as ambassadors for the United Kingdom at home and overseas.

The distinctive Hawk fast-jet team is the first flight announcement for what is shaping up to be a breath-taking airshow.

Ivan Henderson, Cabinet Member for Economic Growth, Regeneration, and Tourism at Tendring District Council (TDC), which organises the Clacton Airshow, said he was excited to welcome the Red Arrows back to the event.

“The Red Arrows are the stars of the airshow circuit, and I am thrilled to announce their breathtaking aerial displays will captivate the crowds at this year’s Clacton Airshow,” he said.

“They are a massive attraction for both the general public and aviation enthusiasts.”

Last year’s Clacton Airshow. Image: Roam Creative

“It will be wonderful to be able to welcome them back to Clacton following a break last year while they represented the UK in Canada.

“If you haven’t marked this year’s Clacton Airshow on your calendar yet, do it now and start planning your trip to the beautiful Essex Sunshine Coast.

“We’re working closely with our flight director to craft a spectacular flight lineup for the 2025 Clacton Airshow on 21 and 22 August.

“This year’s event promises to be an extraordinary spectacle with exhilarating aerial performances and plenty of excitement on the ground.

“We can’t wait to unveil more of our lineup in the coming months.”

Councillor Henderson revealed that the Red Arrows will also bring an exciting ground display to Clacton’s West Greensward showground.

The Red Arrows, based at RAF Waddington in Lincolnshire, have flown almost 5,000 displays in 57 countries.

Often showcasing their trademark Diamond Nine shape, and a combination of close formations and precision flying, the Red Arrows have been displaying since 1965.

The Red Arrows. Image: RAF Red Arrows

All Red Arrows display pilots have flown operationally in frontline aircraft such as the advanced Typhoon, helping the Royal Air Force secure the skies every day of the year.

Other flights scheduled for this year’s Clacton Airshow will be revealed in the coming months. For updates and more information, visit www.clactonairshow.com.

Students plant trees to help boost local biodiversity in Thorpe-le-Soken

Students plant trees to help boost local biodiversity in Thorpe-le-Soken

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Young environmentalists have rolled up their sleeves to plant trees in Thorpe-le-Soken.

Students from Tendring Technology College’s Thorpe Campus joined forces with teachers and Tendring District Council’s (TDC) tree officer Tom Opperman to plant the ‘whips’ on public open space in The Spenndells.

The initiative saw students from the school’s Eco-Council plant a variety of species, including flower, fruit and nut trees, on Thursday, 27 March.

Pupils planting trees at The Spenndells, Thorpe le Soken. Image: TDC

These young trees, which were provided by the Tree Council, will grow into a diverse wooded area, enhancing the local ecosystem.

To give the trees the best start, the project also included the application of wood chip mulch, recycled from trees felled by TDC tree surgeons, and the council also supplied tree guards.

Councillor Mick Barry, TDC’s Cabinet Member for Leisure and Public Realm, praised the students’ efforts.

Pupils planting trees at The Spenndells, Thorpe le Soken. Image: TDC

“It’s wonderful to see the pupils from Tendring Technology College getting involved in planting these trees,” he said.

“This initiative not only supports local wildlife by enhancing biodiversity with a variety of flower, fruit, and nut trees, but also educates young people about the importance of environmental stewardship.

“Championing our environment runs through everything that we do and it’s heartening to see students take pride in their local open spaces.”

The newly planted trees will provide food and shelter for many species on the TDC-owned site, contributing to the area’s natural beauty and ecological health.

Get ready for English Tourism Week 2025

Get ready for English Tourism Week 2025

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English Tourism Week (ETW) takes place from 14-23 March 2025 and sees the industry come together to highlight tourism’s importance to local communities and economies, and promote the innovation, quality and range of products and services on offer to boost domestic breaks.

This year’s campaign celebrates the people, places, businesses, attractions, experiences and destinations who are at the heart of England’s Tourism Sector using the strapline ‘Supporting people and places to drive growth’.

Destinations, tourism businesses and visitor attractions can join in and download the English Tourism Week toolkit at www.visitbritain.org/working-us/english-tourism-week. Show your support on social media by using #EnglishTourismWeek25.

TV stars Katie Price and Bobby Davro to join Easter pantomime at Clacton’s Princes Theatre

TV stars Katie Price and Bobby Davro to join Easter pantomime at Clacton’s Princes Theatre

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Pinocchio Easter Pantomime at the Princes Theatre Clacton
Pinocchio Easter Pantomime at the Princes Theatre Clacton

A hilarious new star-studded Easter pantomime will be taking to the stage at Clacton’s Princes Theatre… with no strings attached.

Anton Benson Productions is back at the Tendring District Council-run (TDC) theatre for its magical new panto Pinocchio, starring Katie Price as the enchanting fairy, on Sunday, 6 April.

Multi-talented media personality and author Katie, who appeared in I’m a Celebrity…Get Me Out of Here! and Celebrity Big Brother, will bring her vibrant energy and charm to the stage in this year’s family-friendly show.

She will be joined by comedian, 80s TV regular and EastEnders star Bobby Davro, who will play the delightfully wicked Stromboli.

Pinocchio follows the whimsical journey of our wooden hero as he sets off to Fantasy Island, dreaming of becoming a real boy.

Along the way, he must learn to navigate the challenges of right and wrong, guided by his conscience and the magical fairy.

In addition to Katie and Bobby, the cast includes Ryan Greaves as Pinocchio, Kate Salmon as Princess Tik Tok and Phyl Harries as Mama Gepetto.

Gary Scott, TDC’s Cabinet Member for Arts, Culture and Heritage, said: “This hilarious and heartwarming production promises to be a delightful experience for audiences of all ages.

“With no strings attached, it’s the perfect way to celebrate Easter with family and friends.”

There will be two performances of the enchanting show, at 2.30pm and 7pm.

Tickets are available now, with prices set at £50 for a family of four, £14 for adults, and £13 for concessions.

For more information and to purchase tickets, go to princestheatre.co.uk or call the Box Office on 01255 686633 (Option 1).

Councillors welcome ‘exceptional’ quality of water across Tendring

Councillors welcome ‘exceptional’ quality of water across Tendring

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Walton beach and Pier
Walton beach and Pier view.

Councillors have welcomed a report highlighting the “exceptional” quality of bathing water across Tendring.

Tendring District Council’s (TDC) Community Leadership Overview and Scrutiny Committee reviewed evidence and data on the quality of sea water, freshwater courses and drinking water in the district.

At a meeting on Tuesday, 28 January, the committee heard bathing water in Tendring is of exceptional quality with both Clacton and Walton regaining their ‘excellent’ status in 2024.

Councillors also heard that water quality at Holland-on-Sea has received a ‘good’ rating while Manningtree Beach is ‘satisfactory’.

There was praise for the efforts of the cold-water swimming group, the Mermaids, who are looking to see Manningtree Beach designated a bathing site which will mean that the Environment Agency must test the water off Manningtree beach on a weekly basis during the bathing season.

This in turn could see action by Anglian Water to further improve water quality there if its infrastructure nearby is affecting that water quality.

The committee also heard that drinking water in Tendring is of very good quality. It also welcomed news that Brightlingsea Harbour Commissioners has asked the University of Essex to carry out work to see how it can improve water quality in the harbour, including looking at the scrubbing of boat hulls and use of less harmful paints.

Councillors were also informed that Natural England had recently commissioned a biodiversity action plan for the rivers Stour and Orwell, looking at invasive species affecting water quality, which was described as a “really positive” step.

Councillor Graham Steady, Chairman of the TDC Committee, said it had called for evidence around water quality in response to concerns nationally about river and sea pollution in the UK.

“It is greatly reassuring to have seen the evidence and the improving direction of travel for this coastal area – this is a good news story for the district,” he said.

“We welcome the announced biodiversity action plan that is being developed for the rivers Stour and Orwell.

“We will continue to keep a watching brief over water quality with a series of site visits to be arranged.”

Councillor Adrian Smith, TDC Cabinet member for Environment, said: “Water quality in Tendring is very important to us all – especially given that we have 36 miles of coastline to our district, and with it some wonderful beaches and wildlife areas.

“Clean and safe bathing waters promote our heritage and encourage visitors to stay longer and enjoy our beautiful coastline.

“We are committed to championing our local environment and working with partners to improve quality of life.

“The recent water quality results reflect our dedication to maintaining and enhancing the natural beauty of our coastal areas.”

He added that TDC will continue to work diligently with its partners, including Anglian Water, to ensure that water quality remains at the highest possible standard, safeguarding the health and wellbeing of the community and visitors alike.

Tendring Witch Heritage Trail to deliver authentic stories across the District

Tendring Witch Heritage Trail to deliver authentic stories across the District

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Work has begun to deliver a fascinating new heritage trail at four locations in the Tendring district thanks to funding from the Rural England Prosperity Fund.

The Tendring Witch Heritage Trail, launching in March, will explore the rich history and folklore of the region, revealing the unique untold stories of the families affected by the infamous historic witch trials – considered as some of the most severe in Essex.

To ensure historic accuracy and sensitivity, Tendring District Council (TDC) has been working in partnership with Alison Rowlands, a professor of European history at the University of Essex who specialises in witchcraft in the early modern period.

Professor Alison Rowlands said: “I’m excited to be involved as a historical advisor on this brilliant project, through which we will foreground the stories of the many women (and a few men) from Tendring Hundred communities who were tried as witches in the 16th and 17th Century. I’m really looking forward to seeing how the historical stories are reworked in woodcarvings and digital technologies by our creative experts.”

Scenic landmarks in Manningtree, St Osyth, Harwich and Walton-on-the-Naze will host beautifully sculptured benches and information boards designed with direct significance to the history of each area. These will be complemented with web content and augmented reality – accessed by phone – to link the user to real time stories.

Alasdair Craig of Essex Chainsaw Carving who is carving these assets, said: “I am delighted to be involved in such a unique and interesting project. The stories represented by these sculptures are fascinating, and it’s rare you get a chance to incorporate something like that into a carving.”

Cow Carving for the Tendring Witch Heritage Trail - Credit Alasdair Craig
Cow Carving Sculpture – part of the Tendring Witch Heritage Trail – Credit Alasdair Craig

The witch trail builds on the success of the Mayflower Trail in Historic Harwich and the Clacton 150 Heritage Trail from Holland Haven to Jaywick Sands.

Gary Scott, Portfolio Holder for Arts, Culture and Heritage, expressed his enthusiasm for the project that aims to raise public awareness and appreciation of Tendring’s history.

 “The Tendring Witch Heritage Trail will enhance our diverse heritage offering, for both residents and tourists,” said Councillor Scott. “We anticipate this will be a popular attraction due to heightened interest in witchcraft persecutions that have been reignited with the publication of best-selling books featuring the trail locations.”