Grand Pier Latest News

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Red Arrows wows Weston crowd

28th August 2008

Hundreds of people thronged Weston's Grand Pier to watch the Red Arrows display earlier this afternoon (Weds).

For 22 minutes residents and visitors alike were wowed by a fantastic display which took place above and either side of the attraction.

People also lined the seafront and the beach craning their necks for a view.

A few were lucky enough to speak to RAF members Jon Trott and flight lieutenant Andy Robins, who helped to coordinate the death-defying display, as the aces, some of whom had recently returned from active service in Iraq and Afghanistan showed off their stuff.

Team leader Jon Trott said: "It was great to come here and put on a show after what happened to the pier.

"The most difficult part for the pilots is coping with the weather and ensuring people are safe. At times the guys are only about six feet apart when performing some of the manoeuvres."

Flt Lt Robins, or call sign Red 10, commentated for the crowd from the pier.

The 38-year-old said: "We're here to make sure everything runs smoothly and to help add some context for the crowd as to what we do in the RAF.

"It was a shame to return to Weston for my third time to see such an iconic attraction in a state but the people here have been great."

"We come here for Helidays so we know all about the town and it's great to be back."

Each of the nine pilots wore special g-force suits to help them cope with the massive pressures their bodies undergo when they are showing off their tricks.

They are all fast jet pilots from frontline RAF squadrons who must have completed a tour of duty with a minimum of 1,500 flying hours to be considered for the honour.

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