AEROBATIC flyer Gerald Cooper is looking forward to entertaining crowds at this summers’s Sunderland International Airshow.

The leading pilot is returning to the popular free seafront on the weekend of July 25.

Mr Cooper said: “Being No2 I n the world means that I am lucky enough to be invited to fly at shows all around the world, however I always look forward to the Sunderland show as the volume of positive feedback that I receive from the audience is second to none.

“I fly to entertain, therefore it is great when I receive positive feedback from everyone at Sunderland, I'm looking forward to blue skies."

Also lined-up are regular performers The Blades – made up of former Red Arrows pilots - The Breitling team of Wingwalkers and the Twister Duo.

Sunderland City Council leader Paul Watson said: "It is great to see that once again some of the top pilots in the world will be coming along to thrill the crowds at this year's Sunderland International Airshow.

Airshow Director Sue Stanhope added: "With a packed flying display, a huge range of activities, exhibitions and funfairs, this year's Sunderland International Airshow is once again going to be the biggest and best free family event in the region.

"The full event programme is still yet to be announced so look out for even more news in the coming weeks.”

For details visit www.sunderland.gov.uk/airshow