Air show future in serious doubt

 

The Welshpool Air Show is set to join the town’s Music Festival by being shelved in 2011 after Royal Air Force cut backs means that organisers would need to pay for their displays.

 

The show has become a popular addition to the calendar over the past few years and there was hope that the world-famous Red Arrows would make an appearance in 2011 with them due to perform at RAF Cosford in Shropshire on the same day.

 

But organisers now have until February to find a sponsor to cover the costs or the plug will be pulled.

 

“It is a shame but we have to be realistic in this day and age and realise that with the cut backs our armed forces are facing, they have to be more prudent with their budgets,” said Town Clerk, Robert Robinson. “If there is a choice between aircraft performing for free at an air show or vital equipment for front line troops then there is only one winner. We understand the decision and will work with the organisers to see what can be done.”

 

A decision has already been made not to run the Music Festival in 2011 after a disappointing response to this year’s event. However, there are already plans to hold a Model Air Day on July 10 which was a part of the Air Show this year.

 

The town will also be hosting the second round of the British Rally Championship on April 1-2 (The Bulldog Rally) when thousands of car fans will come to the area to follow the event which will be based at the Welshpool Livestock Market.