Essential sea defence works have been completed at The Naze in Walton reinforcing protection for the unique coastal environment.
The project focused on replacing damaged gabion baskets at the north-east corner of the area and installing new gabions behind Crag Walk.
These measures will help prevent tidal erosion and protect the fragile cliffs and surrounding habitats for at least the next decade.
The works, which took around five weeks to complete, were carried out by Coastal Defence Contractors Ltd at a cost of £70,000. Funding included a £50,000 contribution from Tendring District Council (TDC) and £20,000 from the Naze Protection Society.
Councillor Adrian Smith, TDC’s Cabinet Member responsible for Coast Protection and Engineering, said the scheme was another vital step in safeguarding The Naze and championing our local environment.
“The Naze is one of our district’s most treasured landscapes – rich in wildlife, geology, and history, and enjoyed by residents and visitors alike,” he said.
“Without these defences, the sea would continue to erode this special area, putting habitats, heritage, and even homes at risk.
“This work ensures we can protect and preserve The Naze for future generations.”
Works – the gabion wall at the north east corner of the Naze, Walton. Image: TDC
The gabion baskets – wire cages filled with stone – act as a barrier against the force of the tide, reducing erosion and stabilising the coastline.
By reinforcing vulnerable sections, the scheme helps maintain access to Crag Walk and supports the long-term management of the site.
Ian Davidson, Chief Executive of TDC and Chairman of the Naze Management Board, added his thanks to all involved.
“This project demonstrates what can be achieved through partnership working. I am grateful to our contractors, staff, and the Naze Protection Society for their commitment to protecting this remarkable area.”
The Naze and Walton Backwaters are designated as Sites of Special Scientific Interest and are home to rare species and important geological features.
Funnelwick Limb, Tendring’s dedicated theatre company for children and young people, is thrilled to announce its enchanting new festive production, Twelve Yuletide Yarns.
The show opens where it is being made – at Harwich Arts and Heritage Centre (15 Nov) before heading to Sunspot Jaywick (16 Nov) as well as performing in primary schools across Tendring, and then out on a national tour
And in these tough economic times, tickets for Twelve Yuletide Yarns in Harwich and Jaywick are completely FREE making the show accessible for Tendring audiences.
Twelve Yuletide Yarns sees the return of the team behind both The Mystery of the Raddlesham Mumps and The Chronicles of Atom and Luna – acclaimed writer and poet Murray Lachlan Young, director Nina Hajiyianni, designer Bek Palmer, and producer Matthew Linley. The tour is being co-produced with Theatre Porto and Eastern Angles.
Twelve Yuletide Yarns is ideal for the whole family and is specifically geared toward children aged 6 and up.
Twelve Yuletide Yarns, Funnelwick Limb
Director of Twelve Yuletide Yarns, and Artistic Director of Theatre Porto Nina Hajiyianni said: “This show is just like unwrapping the best type of present! It’s full of surprises and truly magical—a wonderful celebration of storytelling for children and their families”
Matthew Linley producer added: “It’s incredibly exciting to be working alongside Theatre Porto and Eastern Angles on Twelve Yuletide Yarns. Together we can ensure the hilarious, heartwarming adventure of Twelve Yuletide Yarns is delivered right to young audiences in their schools, libraries & community venues across Tendring, Suffolk and Ellesmere Port.”
This production has been made possible by the generous support of Arts Council England (with funds from the National Lottery), Tendring District Council, and the Shared Prosperity Fund.
Gary Scott, Tendring District Council’s Cabinet Member for Arts, Culture and Heritage, said: “We’re helping to bring live theatre to Harwich and Jaywick — making sure families don’t have to travel far to enjoy something special this festive season. Twelve Yuletide Yarns is a brilliant opportunity for children and parents to experience the magic of storytelling together, right on their doorstep.
“It’s about more than just Christmas fun — it’s about making the arts accessible, supporting local talent, and giving our communities something to be proud of. Thanks to funding from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, we’re able to support projects like this that raise aspirations and create opportunities for young people in Tendring.”
Harwich Arts and Heritage Centre
Annexed onto the Mayflower Primary School, Main Rd, Dovercourt, Harwich, CO12 4AJ
Jaywick Sands’ Sunspot business centre is continuing to energise local entrepreneurs — providing the space and support for bold new ventures that benefit the whole community.
The latest startup at the Tendring District Council-run (TDC) centre to take flight is Flappy Joe’s, a health-focused fast-food diner offering affordable, healthy meals free from additives, seed oils, and processed ingredients.
Joanne Campbell of Flappy Joes at the Sunspot Oct 2025 TDC JD
Founded by Joanne Campbell, the business was inspired by her experience as a parent of children with food intolerances and aims to make clean, nourishing food accessible to all.
“Flappy Joe’s is about helping people feel better through food,” she said.
“We’re passionate about offering genuinely healthy meals that support gut health and reduce inflammation, without compromising on taste or affordability –
“We’re committed to using fresh, health-promoting ingredients, no additives, preservatives, or processed foods, while keeping everything flavourful.
“Healthy eating shouldn’t be a luxury – many people on lower incomes struggle to access wholesome food, so our menu is designed to be simple, affordable, and nourishing.”
The eatery, which is expected to open in January, will offer meal deals for children and adults and is working with local organisations to distribute free food vouchers to vulnerable families.
The Sunspot, which is celebrating its two-year anniversary, has become a thriving centre for retail, office space, and community events.
All but one of the 24 commercial units are now rented out, and footfall to the seafront has increased eightfold over the past year.
The development includes a covered market, café, event space, and a community garden, and has hosted regular boot sales and public events.
It is ideal for entrepreneurs taking their first steps, start-ups looking to grow or established businesses looking to expand and reach a new market in a fantastic location.
It is currently home to a range of businesses, including Bistro at the Sunspot café, Buddies Barbers, Rainy Bakes bakery and Spotty Dotty and Friends dog groomers.
Councillor Ivan Henderson, TDC’S Cabinet Member for Economic Growth, Regeneration and Tourism, said: “The Sunspot is powering a new generation of entrepreneurs in Jaywick Sands. It’s giving people the tools to grow their businesses and make a real impact on the community.
“Flappy Joe’s is a brilliant example of how innovation and social value go hand in hand, and we’re proud to support ventures that improve lives and raise aspirations.”
The Sunspot has earned national recognition, including the Institute of Economic Development’s Social Value Champion of the Year 2024 and the Planning Award 2024 for Best Use of Brownfield Land in Placemaking.
To discover more about the Sunspot – or to register your interest in renting the one remaining business unit – go to www.sunspotjaywick.co.uk.
Creative Tendring has been awarded £750,000 as part of Arts Council England’s largest ever Creative People and Places (CPP) Portfolio, investing £42 million across 45 UK programmes from 2026–29 to spark more grassroots-led cultural experiences in areas where participation in the arts is below the national average.
Hosted by Arts Trust Productions in partnership with Tendring District Council, Community Voluntary Services Tendring, and The Harwich Festival, Creative Tendring will connect world-class artists with local communities to celebrate what makes Tendring unique. The programme will focus on tackling isolation, supporting wellbeing, and helping people of all ages and backgrounds build confidence through creativity.
From April 2026, the Creative Tendring team will begin its development phase, working with our residents and local partners who will shape the ideas and build projects that reflect the district’s creativity and culture. Expect community-led festivals, workshops and public art projects to follow; designed, created and owned by the people of Tendring. The first public events will launch in early 2027, marking the start of a long-term commitment to embedding creativity into everyday life.
This funding is made possible thanks to National Lottery players. Every National Lottery ticket purchased generates money for good causes and enables people in villages, towns and cities across the country to access cultural experiences where they live.
Arts Trust Productions is behind some of the UK’s most vibrant community cultural events, including Summer in the Park and King’s Cross Summer Sounds. Both festivals are open to the public to simply turn up and enjoy, with Summer in the Park completely free to attend and King’s Cross Summer Sounds offering a mix of free and ticketed performances. Together, these outdoor festivals attract tens of thousands of visitors each year, transforming public spaces into lively hubs of music, creativity and connection. Each event strengthens communities and demonstrates how culture can reimagine shared spaces. In 2025, the charity launched St Osyth Summer Sounds, extending its cultural reach across the region.
Martin Collins, CEO & Founder of Arts Trust Productions, said: “Creative Tendring is all about unlocking the potential that already exists within our communities. By working together, we can build a cultural future that truly belongs to the people of Tendring.”
Gary Scott, Tendring District Council’s Cabinet Member for Arts, Culture and Heritage, said: “This is a significant boost for the arts and creativity in our district. Creative Tendring is all about putting local people at the heart of arts and culture, and I’m genuinely excited to see how it will ignite creativity and pride within our communities. Championing the arts means more than just hosting great events; it’s about raising aspirations, opening doors and creating opportunities for everyone to thrive.”
Hazel Edwards, South East Area Director, Arts Council England, said: “Creative Tendring shows how community-led cultural investment can transform lives, by placing decision-making in the hands of local people and working with world-class artists. We are proud to support a partnership that is building a vibrant and inclusive cultural ecosystem, one that will leave a lasting legacy for Tendring’s communities.”
Peter Davis, Artistic Director of Harwich Festival said: “We are so pleased that the Creative Tendring bid was successful and we are thrilled to be part of it. We look forward to working with our local community to help them achieve their ambitions for the future”.
Lisa Andrews, Chief Officer of Community Voluntary Services Tendring (CVST), said: “At CVST we know the amazing benefits coming together in creative activity can have. Social isolation can have a huge impact on overall health and wellbeing, and we are thrilled that there is now this Arts Council funding to deliver creative projects that will benefit the wellbeing of residents in Tendring”.
Clacton Airshow is flying high after being shortlisted for a prestigious national accolade – the National Outdoor Events Association (NOEA) Regional Event of the Year Award.
The nomination is a proud moment not just for the event, but for Clacton itself – showcasing the town as a vibrant, welcoming destination to an estimated 200,000 visitors in 2025.
The popular airshow, organised by Tendring District Council (TDC), has become a summer staple, delivering an estimated £12million annual boost to the local economy.
The NOEA Awards shine a spotlight on the very best in the business – and Clacton Airshow’s nomination places it among the elite.
The winners will be revealed at a glittering ceremony at the Roman Baths and Pump Rooms in Bath on 26 November.
Credit: Simon Rich Photography
Ivan Henderson, TDC Cabinet Member for Economic Growth, Regeneration and Tourism, said he was delighted that the airshow has been recognised by the UK’s leading outdoor events body as one of the best regional events in England.
“We’re absolutely thrilled to be shortlisted – it’s a real feather in our cap and a proud moment for everyone involved in making Clacton Airshow such a standout event,” he said.
“Clacton Airshow is more than just a display – it’s a celebration of aviation, heritage and community, and a showcase of everything that makes Clacton so special.
“It’s a chance to shine a light on the town’s energy, creativity and spirit – and to share that with visitors from across the country.
“This recognition shows that what we’re building here in Clacton is being noticed nationally – and that the town continues to grow as a place of opportunity, pride and aspiration.”
This year’s Clacton Airshow featured everything from the roar of the Red to the sparkle of twilight fireworks, with historic warbirds, cutting-edge aerobatics, and a bustling ground show.
For the first time, the event was also livestreamed, bringing the action to thousands more across the UK.
Clacton Airshow will return in 2026 on Thursday 27 and Friday 28 August, promising another unforgettable celebration of aviation and seaside fun.
Audiences are invited to take flight this Christmas as the Princes Theatre in Clacton transforms into Neverland for a magical pantomime adventure – including a series of special performances.
Presented by Shone Productions, the Magical Adventures of Peter Pan will run at the Tendring District Council-run (TDC) theatre from 6 to 29 December.
The Magical Adventures of Peter Pan at the Princes Theatre Clacton 2025
This high-energy production filled with pirates, fairies, mermaids and mischief promises a spectacular experience for all ages, featuring live music, dazzling dance routines, stunning costumes and breathtaking 3D effects.
But alongside the main run, the theatre is offering three special performances designed to make the magic accessible to even more people.
A British Sign Language (BSL) performance will take place on Sunday 14 December at 3.30pm, ensuring Deaf and hard-of-hearing audiences can enjoy the show.
A relaxed performance will be held on Thursday 18 December at 6pm, designed to create a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere.
This show contains no complete darkness, loud noises, flashing lights or pyrotechnics, and allows audience members to move around freely if needed.
And for those looking to add a cheeky twist to their festive season, two adults-only performances will take place on Saturday 27 December and Sunday 28 December at 8pm.
These risqué shows invite grown-up audiences to enjoy a mischievous evening of laughter, innuendo and outrageous humour, all delivered by the same professional cast and crew as the standard run.
The pantomime follows Peter Pan, the boy who refuses to grow up, and his loyal fairy sidekick Tink as they return to Neverland.
There, they face off against the villainous Captain Hook, who is out for revenge after losing his hand to a hungry crocodile.
With the help of magical fairy dust and a band of loyal friends, Peter must outwit Hook and his bumbling crew, discovering the true meaning of love, loyalty and never-ending magic.
The cast includes Jack Daniels in the title role, Georgia Newton returning as Tink, Daniel Hanton as Mrs Smee, Ben Coles as Smee, and Nigel Peever as Captain Hook.
Gary Scott, TDC’s Cabinet Member for Arts, Culture and Heritage, said: “We’re absolutely delighted to welcome Peter Pan to the Princes Theatre this Christmas – it’s a magical adventure bursting with music, mischief and fairy dust.
“What makes this year extra special is the variety of performances we’re offering. Whether you’re after a relaxed and inclusive experience, a signed show, or a cheeky night out with friends, there’s truly something for everyone in Neverland.
“Last year’s adults-only performance was a roaring success – so much so, we’ve doubled the fun this time with two naughty nights of risqué humour and outrageous laughter.
“It’s the same dazzling production, just with the cast letting their hair down and embracing their cheekier side.
“I’m also really proud that we’re once again hosting a relaxed performance, where audiences can enjoy the show in a welcoming and supportive atmosphere.
“It’s all part of our commitment to making theatre accessible, inclusive and magical for all.”
Tickets are available now from the Princes Theatre website at www.princestheatre.co.uk or by calling the Box Office on 01255 686633 (Option 1).
endring’s celebration of local business is off to a flying start, with entrepreneurs, community leaders and council representatives gathering at Clacton Town Hall to kick off Business Fortnight.
From Monday 22 September to Thursday 2 October, venues across the district will host a series of inspiring sessions as part of Tendring4Growth, Tendring District Council’s (TDC) flagship initiative for economic development.
The opening session on Monday, Working with Tendring District Council, gave attendees practical insights into becoming council-approved suppliers and accessing contract opportunities, with presentations from TDC Chief Executive Ian Davidson, TDC’s Corporate Governance, Performance and Procurement Manager and Essex Procurement Partnership.
The programme continues this week with The AI Effect: Creativity, Culture and Tourism Reimagined at the Columbine Centre in Walton on Tuesday 23 September at 6pm; Writing Successful Bids and Grant Applications at Weeley Village Hall on Wednesday 24 September at 10am; and the return of the popular Tendring Jobs and Skills Fair at the Princes Theatre in Clacton on Thursday 25 September from 10.30am.
Next week, the spotlight turns to new and young entrepreneurs, with events designed to inspire and support the next generation of business leaders.
On Tuesday afternoon, Supporting Start-ups in Tendring will take place at East Coast 5 in Walton, featuring local business owners sharing their journeys and advice. That evening, From Idea to Impact: Supporting Young Businesspeople will be held at McGrigor Hall in Frinton, offering expert guidance and networking for young entrepreneurs.
On Wednesday evening, Building Tomorrow’s Town Centres will be hosted at Air Rescue UK in Harwich, inviting bold ideas for revitalising high streets and creating inclusive communities. The fortnight concludes on Thursday with the Tendring4Growth Business Awards, celebrating the district’s most outstanding businesses.
Councillor Ivan Henderson, Cabinet Member for Economic Growth, Regeneration and Tourism at Tendring District Council, said: “It’s been fantastic to see Business Fortnight get underway with such energy and enthusiasm.
“The opening event showed just how much appetite there is among local businesses to engage, grow and collaborate.
“Next week’s sessions are all about nurturing new ideas and supporting the next generation of entrepreneurs — and I’d encourage anyone with a business dream to come along and get involved.”
Residents are being asked to have their say on how local heritage is protected in Manningtree & Mistley, and St Osyth.
Tendring District Council (TDC) has today (22 September) launched a further four-week public consultation on the two Conservation Area Appraisals.
The consultation follows proposed changes to the boundaries of the Conservation Areas in the locations, based on feedback received during earlier consultations held in October 2021 and May 2022.
These changes have been informed by a detailed review of public comments, historic mapping, and on-the-ground features.
The updated Conservation Area Appraisals aim to better reflect the unique character of each area and provide guidance for future development and conservation.
They form part of the council’s ongoing commitment to protecting local heritage, as set out in the Heritage Strategy adopted in 2020.
Councillor Andy Baker, Cabinet Member for Housing and Planning, said the council was grateful to everyone who took part in the earlier consultations and encouraged residents to engage with the revised proposals.
He said: “Conservation Area Appraisals help us safeguard the beautiful and historic sites in our district for future generations.
“We highly value the opinions of local residents and strongly encourage you to participate in this consultation.
“By taking part, residents are shaping the future of their own communities, which will help them take even greater pride in where they live.”
To take part in the consultation, which runs until 20 October, and to view the updated appraisal documents and maps, go to https://tendringdc.oc2.uk. Hard copies will also be available at local libraries and at the Town Hall in Clacton.
If you have already submitted comments during the earlier consultations and do not wish to make any further contributions, there is no need to contact us again. However, we welcome additional feedback from anyone who would like to respond to the updated proposals.
Comments can be submitted online via the council’s consultation portal, by email to planning.policy@tendringdc.gov.uk, or in writing to the Planning Policy Team at Tendring District Council, Town Hall, Station Road, Clacton-on-Sea, Essex CO15 1SE.
The countdown is on for one of the UK’s most exciting seaside spectacles, as Clacton Airshow prepares to take flight once again with two days of sky-high thrills and ground-level fun.
Returning to the Essex Sunshine Coast on Thursday 21 and Friday 22 August, the high-flying event – organised by Tendring District Council (TDC) – promises a packed programme of aerial excellence and family entertainment, all under the banner of this year’s theme: ‘Legends of the Sky’.
From iconic warbirds and cutting-edge aerobatics to interactive exhibits and community attractions, Clacton Airshow is set to deliver an unforgettable experience for aviation fans and visitors of all ages.
Among the highlights of the flying display are the RAF Red Arrows, the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight – featuring the Spitfire, Hurricane and Lancaster – and the return of the twilight display on Thursday evening, proudly sponsored by Red Nova IT Solutions, which will light up the skies with Otto the Helicopter, The Firebirds, and the P-51D Mustang ‘Moonbeam McSwine’.
The RAF Red Arrows. Image: Paul Johnson/Flightline UK
Also taking to the air will be the Rolls-Royce Heritage Flight’s Spitfire PRXIX, the Fairey Swordfish Mk1, P-51D Mustang ‘Jersey Jerk’, Republic P-47D Thunderbolt, F-86 Sabre, BAC Strikemaster Pair, de Havilland Vampire, Westland Lynx AH7, OV-10B Bronco, RAF Grob Tutor T1, and Team RaVen.
Making her Clacton Airshow debut is Red Bull air racer Mélanie Astles, Europe’s top female aerobatic pilot, who will perform a dynamic display in her Extra 330SC – proudly sponsored by Matthew Homes Ltd.
On the ground, the ever-popular replica Chinook helicopter will return to the West Greensward Airshow site, offering visitors the chance to step aboard and experience the scale of this iconic military aircraft. The Chinook, brought by the RAF ground crew, was one of the most talked-about attractions in 2024 and is expected to be a major draw once again.
The Firebirds at Clacton Airshow 2024. Image: TDC/James Dwan
The RAF will also be represented with RAF Careers and Tutor exhibits while the Army and Royal Navy outreach teams will be on hand to showcase the latest tech and provide insight into life in the forces.
Other ground attractions include Combat2Coffee’s portable roastery, raising funds for veterans’ outreach services, and a wide range of trade stalls. New additions this year include J&Bs Barkery with artisan dog treats, Rough Stuff Oak featuring handmade goods crafted at HMP The Mount, and Bright Eyes of Cambridge, offering stunning macro iris photography.
BBC Essex will once again present Radio Airshow, broadcasting live commentary and updates across the event site and on 103.5FM and BBC Sounds.
For the first time in its 32-year history, Clacton Airshow will be broadcast live and free to viewers across the UK and beyond, thanks to a new partnership with AeroView TV. The high-quality livestream will bring the sights and sounds of the event to screens everywhere. To watch, visit https://watch.aeroview.tv/2025/clacton-airshow.
The replica Chinook at Clacton Airshow 2024. Image: TDC
Councillor Ivan Henderson, TDC Cabinet Member for Economic Growth, Regeneration and Tourism, said this year’s event is set to be one of the most memorable yet.
“Clacton Airshow is a jewel in the crown of the Essex Sunshine Coast – one of the biggest and most anticipated events in the East of England, drawing tens of thousands of visitors to our seafront each summer,” he said.
“It’s a spectacular celebration of aviation, heritage and community, with world-class pilots, iconic aircraft and a buzzing atmosphere both in the air and on the ground.
“We’re thrilled to welcome back the legendary Red Arrows after a short break, and to hear the stirring, unmistakable sound of the Lancaster bomber once again overhead.
“The return of the replica Chinook helicopter will be a real crowd-pleaser, giving flight fans of all ages the chance to get up close to one of the RAF’s most iconic aircraft.
“Whether you’re joining us in person or tuning in via the new live stream, Clacton Airshow 2025 promises to be a truly unforgettable experience.”
The Battle of Britain Memroial Flight. Image: Paul Johnson/Flightline UK
The official Clacton Airshow programme, which includes flight times, aircraft facts and everything visitors need to enjoy the event, will be available to buy at the West Greensward Airshow site for £6.
Displays will commence around 13.45pm and 8pm (twilight) on Thursday and 1pm on Friday. However, display times are subject to change due to operational requirements or weather conditions.
Please be aware that some of the displays are particularly noisy and may cause distress to those that are sensitive to noise and that unauthorised drones are not permitted at the event.
Those travelling to the event can make use of the KonectBuses Park and Ride service from Clacton Shopping Village, in Stephenson Road, as well as the event car park at West Road run by Clacton-on-Sea Rotary Club, and additional rail services provided by Greater Anglia.
Giving to Clacton Airshow by way of online donations or by bucket collections will help in enabling us to secure this event’s future and continue to offer this fantastic free show. With your kind support and contributions and, with enough funding secured, it will enable us to keep this spectacular free event in our skies.
For more information and to donate online, people should visit www.clactonairshow.com, and to stay up-to-date with the latest news follow @clactonairshow on X, or go to the official Facebook event.
As the roar of engines and shimmer of thrilling aerobatics prepare to return to the Essex Sunshine Coast, one man is poised to help bring the skies above Clacton to life.
Taking place on Thursday 21 and Friday 22 August, and organised by Tendring District Council (TDC), Clacton Airshow 2025 show embraces the theme ‘Legends of the Sky’ and promises two days of breathtaking aerial displays and family-friendly fun on the ground.
At the heart of the programme is Flying Display Director Dave Walton, whose job is to turn a complex mix of aircraft, airspace, and logistics into a show-stopping aerial display.
Dave’s aviation journey began early, as the son of an RAF pilot and airshow volunteer. From attending the International Air Tattoo at Greenham Common in his youth to managing aircraft participation at the Royal International Air Tattoo (RIAT), he’s spent decades immersed in the world of flight.
His experience spans everything from Cold War jets to VVIP royal flights — and now, to the skies above Clacton.
“Clacton Airshow is a firm favourite on the airshow calendar,” said Dave, who has directed the show for 7 years, although the team behind TSA Consulting have been there since the start.
“It’s a great location for running a flying display — we’re sat there looking out to sea, with all the land behind us and no terrain issues. And we usually get fantastic weather here on the Essex Sunshine Coast.”
Since Dave first became involved, the show has grown significantly — “probably double what it was,” he notes — and has evolved alongside the wider airshow industry, adapting to new regulations and safety standards.
“There’s a lot of work that goes on behind the scenes,” he explains. “We start booking airspace and planning the show a year in advance.“
“One of the biggest challenges is that we don’t have a nearby airfield suitable for all the aircraft, so we end up operating from four or five bases across the East of England.
“There are a lot of moving parts — and weather, timings, and logistics all have to come together perfectly.”
This year’s flying programme is one of the most diverse yet, showcasing aircraft from across the decades.
“We’re trying to look at the whole range of aircraft available to us on the display circuit,” Dave says.
“We’ve got lower-powered aircraft, training planes, vintage warbirds from the Second World War — including Mustangs to pay tribute to Little Zippie — and right up to the modern day with military jets and, of course, the Red Arrows.”
The story of ‘Little Zippie’ is a poignant one. On 13 January 1945, a P-51D Mustang ditched off the coast of Clacton, claiming the life of Flying Officer Raymond E. King.
The aircraft was later recovered and now forms a centrepiece of the East Essex Aviation Museum in Point Clear, St Osyth. This year, two P-51D Mustangs — sponsored by Ørsted and Red Nova Solutions respectively — will fly in tribute.
“I’m really pleased we can tell that story,” added Dave. “It’s a meaningful part of the show.”
And of course, the impressive RAF Red Arrows return as crowd favourites — appearing on both days of the event.
“Everyone will be excited to see the Red Arrows — that is always a fan favourite,” Dave adds. “And we’ve got fantastic support from the Royal Air Force this year.”
Despite the intensity of the planning and coordination, there are moments of calm — and joy.
“Thursday evening, with the twilight show, is when we get to calm down a bit,” Dave says with a smile.
“We can sit back and enjoy the illuminated aerobatics, smoke and pyrotechnic displays, watching fireworks coming off the aircraft and lighting up the evening sky — that’s a real relaxing highlight.”
And if he had to pick a favourite aircraft?
“I always enjoy watching the Red Arrows, but I love the warbirds — especially a Spitfire. In any setting, it’s a fantastic thing to watch and listen to.”
Councillor Ivan Henderson, TDC Cabinet Member for Economic Growth, Regeneration and Tourism, thanked Dave and his colleagues at TSA Consulting for helping to put on the spellbinding airshow, which is one of the biggest annual events in the East of England, attracting up to 250,000 people over two days.
“Dave’s experience and passion are key to making the Clacton Airshow such a standout event,” he said.
“His leadership, alongside the incredible Tendring District Council airshow team and our dedicated volunteers, ensures we deliver a world-class spectacle that honours our heritage and thrills audiences of all ages.”
The 2025 Clacton Airshow will feature a whole host of historic and aerobatic aircraft while on the ground, visitors can enjoy a vibrant mix of attractions, including a full-sized replica of a Chinook helicopter.
The Army and Royal Navy outreach teams will also be on hand, offering insight into life in the forces and showcasing their latest tech and opportunities, while Combat2Coffee‘s portable roastery will be serving up hot drinks to fund its veterans’ outreach services.
Visitors can also browse a wide range of trade stalls, including new additions like J&Bs Barkery with artisan dog treats, Rough Stuff Oak featuring handmade goods crafted at HMP The Mount, and Bright Eyes of Cambridge, offering stunning macro iris photography.
