ACTION in the air and on the sea thrilled the huge crowds which flocked to the 15th Sunderland International Air Show at the weekend.

While the traditional favourites, the RAF's Red Arrows aerobatic display team, headed a stunning array of daring fliers, the excitement was not restricted to the skies above the Seaburn and Roker bay.

Crowds estimated at more than a million over the two days of Europe's biggest free air show, were also treated to a display of the skills of the Royal Marines Commando Display Team.

With Sunderland's adopted warship, HMS Ocean, providing an impressive backdrop, berthed about three-quarters of a mile offshore, the detachment of Royal Marines almost stole the show with a daring rescue mission.

Backed by Royal Navy helicopter support, Marines on a landing craft enacted the exciting sea rescue, successfully freeing a "VIP" hostage from another boat.

Although Saturday's display was slightly affected by showers, the rain stayed away for yesterday's programme.

Air show director Peter Chapman said he was delighted at the success of what has grown from a small one-off festival, in 1989.

"It's always impossible to put an actual figure on how many people attend what is, after all a free event, he said.

"Sunday, as ever, has been extremely busy and even the changeable weather on Saturday failed to dampen spirits. People come to the event from all over the country and abroad, and once again the air show will have had a major impact on the local economy."

Mr Chapman said the presence of HMS Ocean, just back from duties in the Gulf, provided a welcome extra dimension to the show.

The Royal Navy's largest vessel left its offshore mooring to carefully negotiate the entrance to the River Wear towards the end of yesterday's events.

It will be open for various members of the community to visit, in Corporation Quay, over the next two days.

Last night, police praised the visitors. They said transport arrangements appeared to have worked as well as could be expected, given the huge crowds. However, a minor accident near Sunderland Greyhound Stadium delayed the departure for many drivers leaving via Newcastle Road.