Initial plans for a new £2million cycling, climbing and play facility in Clacton have been unveiled.
Tendring District Council is working on a project to deliver a scheme featuring a pump track, learn-to-ride cycling area and bouldering site at the rear of Clacton Leisure Centre in Vista Road.
Suitable for BMX, scooters and skateboards, the pump track is split into four sections, culminating in an exciting jump line while three-metre-high climbing boulders will be the first facility of its kind in the district.
Natural and equipped play areas also form part of the scheme with the entire landscape will be designed to be fully inclusive.
While this facility will be free to use, a complementary project could see new padel courts installed with hire charges applicable.
TDC is working alongside Alliance Leisure to develop plans for the site and is inviting feedback on the scheme as part of a public consultation with a full planning application due to be submitted later this year.
How climbing boulders at Clacton Leisure Centre could look Copyright: Rockworks Ltd
Councillor Mick Barry, Portfolio Holder for Leisure & Public Realm said: “This is an incredibly exciting project with the potential to deliver something special for our district.
“The benefits of this type of facility are huge, promoting improved physical health, positive socialisation and an increased sense of wellbeing.
“We want this to be something the community can be proud of, which is why it is so crucial people give us their thoughts through our consultation period.
“Our intention is that this will deliver active benefits for our residents for many years to come.”
This project is part of the Community Regeneration Partnership – a £20million investment programme from the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government aimed at revitalising Clacton and Jaywick Sands.
A remarkable true story of compassion, unity and humanity will take centre stage at Clacton’s Princes Theatre this month, as the venue prepares to present the internationally acclaimed musical Come From Away.
Running from 15 to 17 January, this powerful production will be brought to life at the Tendring District Council-run theatre by The Princes Acting Centre.
The musical tells the extraordinary real-life story of 7,000 stranded airline passengers who were diverted to the small town of Gander, Newfoundland, in the wake of the 9/11 attacks.
Despite suddenly doubling its population overnight, the tight-knit community opened its doors and their hearts, offering shelter, comfort and kindness to the unexpected arrivals.
Winner of four Olivier Awards, including Best New Musical, and celebrated on Broadway with a Tony Award for Best Direction, Come From Away has captivated audiences around the world with its soaring music and uplifting message of solidarity.
Princes Acting Centre director Melissa Wenn said the piece remains deeply relevant and emotionally resonant more than two decades after the events that inspired it.
“Although Come From Away is rooted in the events of September 11, one of the darkest and most defining days in recent history, this production is not about the tragedy itself, but about the compassion that rose from it,” she said.
“In the small town of Gander, strangers became family, fear was met with generosity, and kindness became a lifeline.
“What makes this production especially poignant is that most of our cast were not yet born when these events took place.
“And yet, they have approached this story with astonishing maturity, empathy and dedication.
“Through this process, they’ve discovered not only the historical significance of that week in 2001, but also the enduring power of community and kindness.”
The production features a talented local cast, including Bryony Diss, who takes on the role of Captain Beverley Bass, the first female captain for American Airlines, performing the celebrated solo Me and the Sky.
Bryony Diss takes on the role of Captain Beverley Bass. Image: TDC
Councillor Gary Scott, Tendring District Council’s Cabinet Member for Arts, Culture and Heritage, praised the team behind the show.
“Come From Away is a story that resonates because it highlights the extraordinary compassion people can show in challenging times,” he said.
“The team at The Princes Acting Centre have worked tirelessly to bring this extraordinary musical to the stage – and we are fortunate to have a team whose commitment creates valuable opportunities and raises the aspirations of local performers.
“We are incredibly proud of the talent and dedication within our council-run venue, and I encourage residents to come along, support local performers, and experience this deeply moving production for themselves.”
Tickets for Come From Away, which runs from 15 to 17 January, are available now from the Princes Theatre website at www.princestheatre.co.uk or by calling the Box Office at 01255 686633.
The spirit of global friendship shone brightly at the Princes Theatre as hundreds of young people took centre stage for this year’s Tendring Junior Ambassadors celebration.
Organised by Tendring District Council (TDC), the Junior Ambassadors Project brought together more than 360 Year Five and Six pupils from nine local primary schools, who spent the term exploring cultures from around the world through creative workshops.
From the rhythmic beats of African drumming to the lively steps of Indian dance, where adults and children joined in with the vibrant energy of Bhangra, and the heartfelt traditions of Ukrainian song, the event was a joyful celebration of learning and unity.
Pupils also shared a powerful message of peace through music, echoing the importance of harmony in today’s world.
Pupils from Clacton’s Cann Hall Primary School enjoyed the the rhythmic beats of African drumming. Image: TDC
Councillor Gina Placey, TDC Cabinet Member for Partnerships, praised the young ambassadors for their commitment.
“What an incredible showcase of local talent and creativity the showcase was – every performance was full of energy and passion,” she said.
“The Junior Ambassadors Project gives our young people the chance to discover new ideas, build confidence, and take pride in their achievements.
“This project is about more than performance – it’s about raising aspirations and broadening horizons.
“Seeing our young people embrace different cultures with such enthusiasm gives me real hope for the future.
“I also want to thank them and their families for making it such a great event – truly one of the highlights of my year.”
The project encourages young people to discover the rich traditions and stories that shape different communities, helping them develop curiosity, understanding, and respect for others.
Tendring District Council (TDC) is shining a spotlight on the district’s amazing independent shops and businesses this Small Business Saturday, as the festive season gets underway.
Taking place on Saturday, 6 December, the nationwide campaign encourages people to support small businesses – the heartbeat of our local economy – by shopping, dining, and exploring what’s on their doorstep.
Small businesses bring character and choice to our high streets, create jobs, and help our communities thrive.
Council Leader Mark Stephenson said: “Every time you choose a local business, you’re helping to keep Tendring’s economy strong and vibrant.
“Small Business Saturday is a great chance to discover something new, pick up unique gifts, and enjoy the personal service that makes our independent businesses special.
“Your support really matters – it keeps money in the local area and helps these businesses continue to grow.”
Maxine Tedman, manager of Limehouse Gift Shop in Connaught Avenue, Frinton, called on people to back the Small Business Saturday initiative this weekend.
“If you stop supporting small businesses, eventually they’ll disappear,” she said.
“Every customer who walks through our door becomes part of our story. As a community we can all support each other.”
Over the past decade, Small Business Saturday has engaged millions of people and seen billions of pounds spent on the day. The campaign also provides free training and mentoring for small businesses.
Join the conversation on social media using #SmallBizSatUK, and find out more at smallbusinesssaturdayuk.com.
TDC is also inviting local firms to take part in the Tendring4Growth Business Survey, helping shape future support and services.
Every completed survey will be entered into a prize draw to win one of three £50 vouchers for Clacton’s award-winning Black Rock Restaurant.
endring’s ‘excellent’ waters are making a real splash after being named amongst the cleanest in the country.
Visitors and residents alike can have confidence in the cleanliness of waters along the Essex Sunshine Coast, as the latest Environment Agency bathing water results confirm seven beaches have achieved the highest ‘Excellent’ rating – with two more rated ‘Good’.
The waters at Walton, Frinton, Holland-on-Sea, Clacton, Jaywick, Dovercourt and Brightlingsea are all now rated ‘Excellent’, while Clacton’s Martello Beach and Manningtree Beach are rated ‘Good’.
Manningtree’s rise from ‘Sufficient’ last year is particularly welcome, and both Holland and Jaywick have moved up to the top rating.
Councillor Mick Barry, Tendring District Council’s Cabinet Member for Leisure and Public Realm, said the results were a huge boost for tourism and local pride.
“Our Essex Sunshine Coast is one of the district’s greatest assets – and these latest water quality ratings show it’s among the best in the country,” he said.
“Clean, safe bathing waters give confidence to residents and visitors, encouraging people to stay longer and enjoy everything our coastline has to offer.
“Coupled with our Blue Flag beaches – including Brightlingsea, Dovercourt Bay, Frinton and Walton’s Albion Beach – these results underline Tendring’s reputation as a top seaside destination.”
Earlier this year, Tendring proudly announced seven beaches flying Blue Flags or Seaside Awards, recognising high standards of cleanliness, safety and facilities.
Walton’s Albion Beach regained its Blue Flag after water quality improvements, and other beaches such as Harwich and Martello Bay in Clacton received Seaside Awards.
Councillor Adrian Smith, Cabinet Member for Environment, said the council has been championing water quality improvements, working with partners and local community groups.
“Water quality in Tendring matters to all of us,” he said. “With 36 miles of coastline and some of the most beautiful beaches and wildlife areas in the country, it’s a big part of what makes our district special.
“We’ve worked closely with partners like Anglian Water and other local groups to keep improving standards – and these latest results show that effort is paying off.
“From the Manningtree Mermaids campaigning for official bathing status – triggering regular Environment Agency testing that helped to drive improvements – to Brightlingsea Harbour Commissioners’ collaboration with the University of Essex to reduce pollutants from boat maintenance project, it’s been a real team effort.
“We’re proud of the progress so far and will keep working with partners to make things even better.”
Nationally, 87% of bathing waters were rated ‘Excellent’ or ‘Good’, and 93% met minimum standards, marking a slight improvement on last year.
Drivers across Tendring can park with even greater confidence as a total of 30 car parks have this year earned the prestigious Park Mark award – a national seal of approval for safety and quality.
The Park Mark, part of the Safer Parking Scheme run by the British Parking Association (BPA), is awarded to car parks that meet rigorous standards for security, lighting, maintenance and management.
This latest round of awards sees 13 more sites added to the list, including Hastings Beach, Hastings Grass, Promenade Way, and the seafront parking bays, in Clacton, as well Orwell Place in Dovercourt, York Road, Brighton Road and Holland Haven in Holland-on-sea, Brook Street in Manningtree, and Station Yard, Mill Lane, Coronation Car Park, and The Naze, in Walton-on-the-Naze.
Earlier this year, 17 car parks across the district – including locations in Ardleigh, Brightlingsea, Clacton, Harwich, Jaywick, Manningtree and Walton – also achieved the accreditation.
Councillor Mick Barry, Tendring District Council’s Cabinet Member for Car Parks, said: “Residents have told us that car parking matters to them – and that’s why we’re proud to continue the Householder Parking Permit, which offers free parking after 11am at most council-run car parks.
“We’re committed to maintaining high standards and making sure our car parks remain safe and welcoming for everyone.
“That’s why we are continuing to invest in improvements, such as plans to install low-level, solar-powered lighting to complement existing ambient lighting at Victoria Place car park in Brightlingsea.
“Receiving Park Mark accreditation for 30 of our car parks – more than any other district in Essex – is a fantastic achievement, and I want to thank our dedicated Parking Services team for their hard work and commitment.
“These awards give residents and visitors alike confidence that our car parks are well-managed, clean, and secure.”
The Householder Parking Permit gives residents free parking after 11am at most council-run car parks (excluding July and August). For details, visit http://www.tendringdc.gov.uk/content/householder-parking-permit.
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.
This summer’s Clacton Airshow will once again fill the skies with daring displays and breath-taking stunts, as some of the world’s most skilled pilots take flight in a celebration of aerial excellence.
Taking place on Thursday 21 and Friday 22 August, and organised by Tendring District Council (TDC), the 2025 event embraces the theme ‘Legends of the Sky’, promising two days of thrilling action in the air and family-friendly fun on the ground.
Among the standout performers is Team RaVen, the UK’s largest civilian aerobatic team, returning with a powerful seven-aircraft formation.
Credit: Paul Johnson_Team RaVen
Their display, sponsored by BBC Essex, is a masterclass in precision and teamwork, with smoke trails and tight manoeuvres that leave audiences spellbound.
Rich Goodwinbrings back his ever-popular Pitts Special — but this year, it’s supercharged. His radical new Jet Pitts combines traditional biplane agility with the roar of twin jet turbines, delivering an aerobatic display that’s as loud and thrilling as it is unique.
Rich said the idea to combine a traditional piston engine with two jet turbines mounted on either side of the fuselage began as a light-hearted comment while Rich was working with aircraft engineer Eddie Sauernman on a new wing design.
“I joked with Eddie that we could just bolt two jet turbines to the Pitts and fly it after a weekend’s work,” he said. “Several years later, here we are almost ready to go after overcoming a host of regulatory and engineering challenges.”
The airshow also features the Bronco Demo Team, flying the distinctive OV-10B Bronco — a Cold War-era aircraft with a rugged silhouette and a rich military heritage. Pilot Tony de Bruyn brings the aircraft to life with a display that blends nostalgia with raw power.
Credit: Paul Johnson_Bronco Demo Team
From the Royal Air Force, the Grob Tutor T1 will take to the skies in a graceful solo routine. Display pilot Flight Lieutenant Bob Dewes, a veteran of both transport and search-and-rescue missions, brings elegance and poise to this light training aircraft’s performance.
Also joining the aerobatic display line-up is Mélanie Astles, Europe’s leading female aerobatic pilot and a former Red Bull competitor. Flying her Extra 330, Mélanie’s display is a dazzling mix of finesse and flair, sponsored by Matthew Homes Limited.
Councillor Ivan Henderson, TDC’s Cabinet Member for Economic Growth, Regeneration and Tourism, said: “This year’s Clacton Airshow is shaping up to be our most exciting yet—packed with jaw-dropping stunts, legendary aircraft, and non-stop entertainment for all ages.
“It’s bold, it’s brilliant, and it’s right here on our doorstep. If you’ve never been before, this is the year to come — and if you have, you already know why it’s the event everyone will be talking about.
“We can’t wait to welcome everyone back to the Essex Sunshine Coast for two unforgettable days.”
The 2025 show will also feature iconic appearances from the RAF Red Arrows and the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight, as well as the return of the popular twilight display on Thursday evening.
For updates and more information on the 2025 Clacton Airshow, visit www.clactonairshow.com, follow @clactonairshow on X, or go to the official Facebook event.
Aviation legends will thunder into action at this summer’s Clacton Airshow, as three iconic Second World War aircraft take to the skies in a spectacular celebration of power and heritage.
Taking place on Thursday 21 and Friday 22 August, and organised by Tendring District Council (TDC), the 2025 show embraces the theme ‘Legends of the Sky’, promising two days of breathtaking aerial displays and family-friendly fun on the ground.
Among the highlights is the North American P-51D Mustang ‘Jersey Jerk’, a beautifully restored aircraft operated by Ultimate Warbirds and proudly sponsored by Ørsted, which runs Gunfleet Sands Offshore Wind Farm.
Originally built in Australia and now based in Northamptonshire, the aircraft honours Donald J. Strait, a top ace of the US 8th Air Force who flew from Martlesham Heath, Suffolk, achieving 13.5 aerial victories – including three in a single mission in 1945.
Adding even more firepower is the Republic P-47D Thunderbolt ‘Nellie-B’—the largest and heaviest single-seat piston-engine fighter ever built—also sponsored by Ørsted. Known for its ruggedness and versatility, the Thunderbolt played a key role in ground-attack missions during the D-Day landings and beyond.
Also appearing is the legendary P-51D Mustang ‘Moonbeam McSwine, part of the twilight display on the Thursday evening, which sponsored by Red Nova.
Operated by Ultimate Warbird Flights, Moonbeam McSwine is painted in tribute to Captain William T. Whisner, a triple ace who earned 15.5 victories in the Second World War and later served in Korea and Vietnam.
The twilight show will also feature the high-energy Firebirds Aerobatic Team and crowd-favourite Otto the Helicopter and will be followed by fireworks from Clacton Pier.
This year’s Mustang displays carry a poignant local connection due to the 80th anniversary of the loss of a P-51D off the coast of Clacton during the Second World War.
On 13 January 1945, a P-51D Mustang known as ‘Little Zippie’ ditched into the North Sea off Clacton, tragically claiming the life of Flying Officer Raymond E. King.
Decades later, the aircraft was recovered and now forms a centrepiece of the East Essex Aviation Museum in Point Clear, St Osyth.
Councillor Ivan Henderson, TDC Cabinet Member for Economic Growth, Regeneration and Tourism, said: “The mighty Mustangs are a real showpiece of power and heritage — vital to Allied victory in the Second World War.
“The flights are a powerful tribute to ‘Little Zippie’ and the brave pilots who flew these legendary machines.
“Whether you’re a lifelong fan or just looking for a great day out by the sea, the Clacton Airshow is the highlight of the summer on the Essex Sunshine Coast.”
Helen Kinsella, of Ørsted, added: “We’re proud to sponsor the incredible displays by ‘Jersey Jerk’ and ‘Nellie-B’ – two historic aircraft that not only showcase aviation excellence but also help celebrate Clacton’s rich coastal heritage.
“The airshow brings people together and draws visitors from near and far and we’re thrilled to be part of it.”
Attached images show the North American P-51D Mustang ‘Jersey Jerk’ and the Republic P-47D Thunderbolt. Images: Paul Johnson / Flightline UK
The 2025 Clacton Airshow will feature a whole host of historic and aerobatic aircraft, including the RAF Red Arrows and Battle of Britain Memorial Flight. On the ground, visitors can enjoy a vibrant mix of attractions, including a full-sized replica of a Chinook helicopter.
For updates and more information on the 2025 Clacton Airshow people should visit www.clactonairshow.com, follow @clactonairshow on X, or go to the official Facebook event.
A video hasproduced telling the story of ‘Little Zippie’, which can be seen here. To find out more about the EastEssex Aviation Society, go to www.facebook.com/EastEssexAviationSociety.
