EUROPE's biggest free airshow takes off next month with another spectacular line-up.

The 14th Sunderland International Airshow will be held on Saturday and Sunday, July 27 and 28, over the Seaburn and Roker areas of the city.

Last year's event attracted record crowds of more than a million - generating more than £5m for the local economy - and organisers at Sunderland City Council are hoping for another successful weekend.

Newcastle-born Flight Lieutenant David Thomas will be on almost home ground, as he will be flying with the ever-popular Red Arrows flying display team, which will again top the bill.

Flt Lt Thomas, 33, in his first season with the team, is delighted to be performing in the region.

He said: Sunderland International Airshow has established a reputation for being amongst the best in the industry and I am looking forward to flying there.

"It'll be a fantastic feeling to be performing in my first season as a Red Arrow over familiar ground. There will be a lot of family and friends turning up."

Event co-ordinator Sue Henderson said: "For the first time ever we are having to start the flying early on the Sunday due to the action-packed programme."

The Red Arrows will close the show on the Saturday afternoon and open it next day at noon with their breathtaking manoeuvres.

The Royal Jordanian Falcons formation team, which last appeared at the event in 1995, are making their return.

The RAF's front line fighters, the Jaguar and Harrier, will provide speed and drama, while the Hurricane and Spitfire, from the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight, will give visitors a glimpse of aviation history.

Other highlights include the RAF Falcons and Red Devils parachute teams, and Blue Eagles Helicopter Display Team.

Ian Sheeley, event services manager for the RAF Benevolent Fund Enterprises, which stages the annual Royal International Air Tattoo, is co-ordinating the flying displays.

He said: "We were delighted to win the flying display contract, especially as it supports the work of the RAF Benevolent Fund.

"I hope the many thousands of visitors expected at Sunderland will have a great day out and enjoy some spectacular flying."

On the ground, there will be three large exhibition and display areas at Cliffe Park, Seaburn Recreation Park and Seaburn Showfield.

They will be home to the children's entertainment area and the RAF Townshow, featuring the School of Fighter Control, Harrier GR7, the Rapier Missile System and two light tanks.

The flying takes place on Saturday, from 1pm to about 5.40pm, and on Sunday, between noon and 4.30pm. On-ground entertainment takes place until 6pm both days.