A NUCLEAR bomber will take to the skies over the North-East next month when Europe’s largest free airshow returns.

An Avro Vulcan, a Cold War bomber designed to carry out nuclear strikes on the Soviet Union, will be making a noisy return to the Sunderland International Airshow, having first appeared at the event two years ago.

More than one million spectators are estimated to have seen last year’s event and organisers expect a similar crowd for this year’s seafront spectacular.

The 23rd Sunderland International Airshow takes place on Saturday and Sunday, July 30 and 31, over the city’s coastline at Seaburn and Roker, with more than eight hours of flying displays.

The weekend will get under way on Friday, July 29, with a launch party and live music in Cliffe Park, Roker, with fireworks and a sunset flying display between 7pm and 10pm.

Councillor John Kelly, Sunderland City Council’s portfolio holder for Safer City and Culture, said: “This is the 23rd year of the Sunderland International Airshow and it has become one of the best and biggest events of its kind.

“I’m very pleased to say that there is, once again, something for everyone.

There are several favourites returning to see us and also new additions to the flying programme.

“This is a flying programme that will see more than eight hours of displays, which include classic fighters, helicopters, a gigantic bomber, aerobatic trainers and supersonic jets, all flying over Sunderland’s seafront.

“I’m personally delighted to announce the return of that giant of the skies – the Vulcan Cold War bomber. There will also be plenty of land-based attractions along the seafront from exhibitors and ground displays.”

The line-up for this year’s event also features the RAF Falcons Parachute Display Team and the Royal Navy Black Cats helicopter display team.

There will also be flying displays by legendary Second World War aircraft, including a Spitfire and Hurricane.

The Red Arrows will not be making an appearance at Sunderland this year, but there will be displays by the five supersonic Hawker Hunter jets of Team Viper, as well as performances by The Blades, renowned aerobatic pilot Gerald Cooper and the return of the Breitling Wingwalkers.

More detailed timings of the flying programme are being confirmed nearer the date.