THE world's most advanced anti-submarine warfare (ASW) helicopter will fly into an airshow in the region this weekend.

The Royal Navy's Merlin helicopter will be appearing at the annual Sunderland Airshow, on Saturday and Sunday, for the first time.

Costing £29m to make, the aircraft entered service with the Navy in 1998 for anti-submarine and anti-ship warfare.

It is fitted with highly advanced navigation and mission systems.

Flown with a crew of three, it can land and take off from both large and small ships' flight decks, in severe weather conditions and at night.

It will take part in eight-minute displays on Saturday and Sunday featuring a number of manoeuvres - including bowing to the crowds at Roker and Seaburn.

Air show co-ordinator Sue Henderson said: "As the airshow is now in its 14th year, it's a challenge to try to introduce something new into the flying programme every year.

"We are therefore thrilled to have been able to include the Merlin helicopter - it's an exciting addition for us."

Lieutenant Steve Windebank, of 814 Squadron, which forms the ASW element of HMS Ark Royal's carrier air group, will fly the Merlin.

He said: "I am sure the audience will be amazed by the Merlin, which is a magnificent aircraft."

The show's other highlights include the RAF's Red Arrows, Falcons, and Red Devils and the Blue Eagles helicopter display team.

Bus boost for show visitors

A BUS operator is putting on extra services to carry visitors to and from Sunderland Air Show.

Go North-East will run additional services direct to the show from Sunderland Interchange, stand R, every few minutes on Saturday and Sunday.

For details on the servicescontacting Traveline on 0870 608 2608 or visit www.simplygo.co