A WORLD-FAMOUS display team was forced to take emergency action to avoid tragedy at one of the region's biggest airshows over the Bank Holiday weekend.

Moments before arriving at the Yorkshire Airshow, at Elvington, near York, on Sunday, the Red Arrows had to abandon its display because a series of airspace infringements made it too dangerous to fly.

About 15,000 spectators were left disappointed by the antics of four airspace "trespassers" - a microlight, a Piper Cherokee, a helicopter and another light aircraft.

The pilots who ignored the air restrictions in the area could now face prosecution by the Civil Aviation Authority.

Show organiser Ken Cothliff said: "After ten years of organising full-size aircraft displays, this is the first time we had had an incident like that.

"I am disappointed, and our customers - many of whom have travelled a long distance - are extremely angry."

Mr Cothliff said every flying club in the region had been told they could not fly within eight miles of Elvington when the Red Arrows were performing.

Fortunately, as it was a two-day event, the Red Arrows were able to go ahead with their display yesterday.

The Red Arrows' team leader, Squadron Leader Spike Jepson, said: "It is the duty of every pilot to check all airspace restrictions.

"There is absolutely no excuse for anyone potentially endangering the safety of either my team or the general public."