ONE of north-east Hampshire’s ‘not to be missed’ occasions this summer will be found at Blackbushe Airport where thousands will gather to celebrate the airfield’s 75th anniversary, it’s survival and notable history.

Once considered to be no less than London’s second airport, the Blackbushe of today holds much in store for its future.

Visitors to the Festival of Flight, from July 1 to July 2, will enjoy far more than just flying displays, the exhibition area will include trade stands offering a wide range of goods, a sumptuous choice of food outlets and the chance to fly with the Red Arrows simulator ride.

The army offer its dive tank and an assault course amid their numerous exhibits, including tanks. British Airways will be providing a large display.

The ‘Children’s Zone’ promises to be a major attraction for the younger guests. The Military Wives Choir and the Rock Choir will be on stage, as will Champagne at the Blitz, who will provide songs and harmonies of the 1940s.

The History Hub, meanwhile, will be the venue for learning with photos, movies and with people ‘who were there’, to tell the history of Blackbushe Airport.

And to aeroplanes, no less than three aircraft static parks with aircraft from WWII to present day on show, while in the air a three-hour flying display takes place each day, with aircraft from the diminutive Turbulent to the mighty Lancaster bomber, from the RAF’s Battle of Britain Memorial Flight.

All profits from the weekend’s action will be shared between Aerobility, Help for Heroes and Dougie Dalzell Memorial Trust.

Full details at www.blackbushe75.com, where tickets may be purchased in advance.