Red Arrows at Swanage Carnival

Description:

Red Arrows to appear at Swanage Carnival !

It was reported locally last weekend that the annual Swanage Carnival had been left in chaos when the principal attraction withdrew at the 11th hour because of other commitments.

After the article appeared the office of South Dorset MP Jim Knight was inundated with complaints and it seems that having friends in high places has an advantage when the Red Arrows performed a u-turn and confirmed they will now be at the Swanage Carnival on Saturday after all.

Linda Welsh, carnival secretary said: "We just cannot believe it. Apparently apart from all the people I contacted up to the defence minister, Jim Knight's office has been inundated with complaints. On Monday afternoon we had a phone call to say that the decision had been reversed and we've got them at 4.37pm on Saturday. In the words of the squadron leader who called us, we must know people in high places. We're back on track and we're absolutely thrilled to bits."

Linda added: "Of course people are now going to get a bumper Saturday, because after the Red Arrows we now have a solo display and we've also filled the town with street entertainers. It's going to be a spectacular Saturday."

Mr Knight confirmed he had contacted the Ministry of Defence to ask if Swanage could be put back on the schedule. He added: ""I am delighted they were able to do so and it is great news for the carnival organisers and those planning to attend on Saturday."