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Biggin Hill International Air Fair, Biggin Hill, Kent 27-28 June 2009
AWB joins in the fun!
The Biggin Hill International Air Fair is not only one of the most famous worldwide aviation events but it is also reported to be the largest privately organised air show in Europe. Crowds of more than 60,000 flocked to Biggin Hill Airport, the former World War II fighter station, for a great mix of flying displays and ground attractions, offering fun and entertainment for all the family.AWB were most generously given a site free of charge by the Show organisers. We were inundated with visitors eager to meet Amy Bear and to spin AWB's "legendary" 'Wheel of Fortune'. The enthusiasm of the AWB volunteers manning the site had to be seen to be believed! - and all added to the carnival atmosphere throughout the Fair. The Show also provided an excellent opportunity for AWB to meet more of the general public, and to increase awareness of our activities. It also provided the chance for AWB to meet other organisations with whom we hopefully might build links for the future.
Being an exclusively outdoor event, we were at the mercy of the elements. The weather however surpassed itself and we had sunshine and high temperatures on both days. The sale of Amy Bear merchandise, which again proved very popular, and the "Wheel of Fortune" helped us to raise over £800.
The Fair was opened with a flying display by the world's only female Spitfire pilot, Carolyn Grace. Crowds were wowed with various air displays including the RAF aerobatic team the Red Arrows (with whom Amy Bear has flown!), which stunned visitors with its iconic red, white and blue smoke trails. Spectators were also able to see displays from other aircraft including a Chinook helicopter, Typhoon and Nimrod. There were also displays from various aircraft including the Hurricane and Spitfire fighters and Lancaster bomber of the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight and the only flying Vulcan bomber, XH558 (now G-VLCN) of the Vulcan to The Sky Trust.
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