Aviation enthusiasts are hoping to see another "mini airshow" in Southend this year after the city's airport hosted the Red Arrows in August.

Southend Airport played host to the Red Arrows in August, as well as RAF Typhoon jets and the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight, when it was used as base for the iconic planes which were featuring in the Eastbourne Air Show.

The sight and sound of the RAF aircraft roaring over the city led to calls from residents and readers to be used as a catalyst to bring the air show back to Southend.

Now residents are hoping what was dubbed a "mini airshow" Southend last summer will take place again this year.

When asked if the Red Arrows would return to the airport this year, an airport spokesman said: "We certainly hope so! It was a fantastic weekend back in August for airport staff, members of the community and, of course, our avid aviation-loving audience.

"We had great feedback from members of the RAF Red Arrows, so fingers crossed they return again in 2023."

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The popular Southend Air Show last took place in 2012.

An effort to revive the event in 2015 was unsuccessful, despite volunteers raising £250,000 and a petition calling for its return gaining 2,000 signatures.

Another campaign to bring the show back was launched in September, but organisers soon hit roadblocks and plans appeared to be dead in the water by November.