Herne Bay’s stunning air show is set to make a sensational return next summer after a shock U-turn by organisers.

Bosses at the BayPromoTeam had considered taking a year out in 2017 but have now decided to press ahead with plans for a show next August.

They have already asked the Red Arrows to perform and hope to get another eye-catching display team to deliver a breathtaking pyrotechnics display at dusk.

Senior organiser Gerald McCarthy told KentOnline's sister paper, the Herne Bay Gazette: “I was contacted by the Red Arrows during their recent display in China and got the feeling that our air show is now well known and respected in aviation circles.

“It is felt that even if they cannot display in 2017, we should push on and grow the event because they will be back here sooner or later.

“If it proceeds, it will be called The South East Air Show 2017, Herne Bay.

“We feel that Herne Bay can be the beacon in terms of air shows in the South East, hence the choice of name for the event.”

Mr McCarthy says he has asked the RAF events team, which includes the Red Arrows, Eurofighter Typhoon, Lancaster, Spitfire and Hurricane, to perform next year.

Organisers will find out at the end of February if they have been successful and will then decide whether to go ahead or not.

A date for the 2017 show is yet to be confirmed but it will be some time in August.

"We feel that Herne Bay can be the beacon in terms of air shows in the South East..." - Gerald McCarthy

The event hit national headlines in the summer when a plane ditched in the sea near Bishopstone Glen.

Mr McCarthy said: “Due to the incident last year, the Sea Vixen jet and de Havilland Vampire jet were diverted and unable to display, so it would be good to have them back for a full display.

“We have also placed bids to the Chinook display team and, depending on availability, the fantastic AeroSPARX display team could arrive at dusk, complete with pyrotechnics to end the day’s action.”

Mr McCarthy added that funding the event could be difficult next year and is asking people to donate.

“Certain funding pots we were lucky enough to have access to this year will not be available in 2017,” he said.

“So we would urge businesses and residents to get behind us if they would like to see more of what has undoubtedly lifted the town to new heights over the past two or three years.

“Herne Bay is on somewhat of a roll currently, and this event plays a huge part in that, and here at the BayPromoTeam, we want that to continue.”

Businesses interested in supporting the event can email info@hernebayairshow.co.uk or visit the BayPromoTeam Facebook page.