RECORD VISITOR NUMBERS FOR MARGATE

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Over 90,000 people joined in the fun this weekend (Saturday 20 and Sunday 21 June) to celebrate Kent’s biggest air and land festival, Margate’s Big Event.

Visitors from all over the South East of England, and many from further afield, flocked to Palm Bay in Margate to enjoy the thrilling aerial displays, live music and award winning street entertainment.

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In the sky highlights included the breathtaking return of the Red Arrows, a thrilling UK debut from Team Viper Strikemasters, the roaring Typhoon and daring Team Guinot Wingwalkers as well as flights from the Hawk, Tutor, Aerostars and the nostalgic Battle of Britain Memorial Flight.

On the ground tens of thousands partied the night away at the stunning 70’s tribute concert featuring We Will Rock You, the Bee Gees and Tina Turner with an incredible firework finale.

Families were also treated to a fun fair with white knuckle rides and children’s attractions, a food and drink village, fully licensed bars, helicopter rides and for the brave, skydiving in the Adrenalin Vertical Wind Tunnel.

Attendance to the event this year has beaten figures from the last five years, which have risen by over 60,000 since the first, back in 2005.

Cllr. Roger Latchford, Cabinet Member for Economy and Culture, said: “We anticipated a big crowd this year but over 90,000 people coming to Palm Bay is just wonderful. Margate’s Big Event really puts Thanet on the map and it’s a real joy to be part of such a successful event. I’d like to thank all of the people who helped to make it such a huge success. I think it’s fantastic to see so many new people coming into the area and I look forward to welcoming them back to the Isle soon.”