Final preparations are under way at RNAS Culdrose for Air Day 2003, which takes place on Wednesday, July 16.

Once again, the event has a truly international line-up, with aircraft from around Europe appearing alongside a wide range of Royal Navy and Royal Air Force air power.

Making a welcome return this year is the Polish military display team, the Bialo-Czerwone Iskry (the Red and White Sparks).

Other favourites once again set to thrill the crowds include the spectacular Red Arrows, a Germany Navy Tornado, Royal Netherlands Air Force helicopters, a Polish AN26, French Super Frelon and Belgian Navy Alouette III.

Home-grown aircraft will include Harriers, Black Seahawks, an RAF Jaguar and Merlin, Sea King and Lynx helicopters.

The flying display will also feature a Swordfish and Firefly from the Royal Navy Historic Flight and the Lancaster, Spitfire and Hurricane from the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight.

Civilian operated aircraft will include a Canberra, Venom and the Bucker Formation Team.

Back on the ground, there will be a static display of military and civilian fixed and rotary wing aircraft.

Air Day is by no means just about aircraft, and one of the new features of this year's event is a special Cornish Pavilion where visitors will be able to savour local produce in the Taste of Cornwall cafe.

Demonstrations will also be staged and a wide array of products and crafts created by local companies will be on sale.

Other attractions include exhibitions, sideshows, trade stands, fairground rides, new and vintage car displays, a tethered hot air balloon and helicopter trips.

Culdrose spokeswoman Doreen George said although the main flying display did not begin until 1.30pm, there would be activity in the air and non-stop entertainment on the ground from the moment the gates opened at 9.30am.

"It will be a fun-filled, action-packed day out for the whole family to enjoy," she said.

Tickets, price £8 for adults and £4 for children, can be bought in advance from Helston tourist information centre, RNAS Culdrose public viewing enclosure and other local outlets. Tickets on the day cost £10 and £5.

Further information is available on 01326 563003 or at www.airday.co.uk.