A SPONSORSHIP deal is expected to be agreed to secure an air show as a top summer attraction for Thanet.

The location for the June event remains a secret but it is understood that it would be on a coastal stretch in the Margate area and not based inland at Kent International Airport at Manston.

Council leader Cllr Sandy Ezekiel said: “We expect to have finalised sponsorship arrangements in the next few days. I'm delighted with the progress that has been made on this in recent weeks.

"A number of meetings have been held about staging this major new event and full details of what will be happening during that weekend should be available shortly.”

Tens of thousands of people are expected to flock to the seaside for the two-day show, with the overall attendance estimated at more than 100,000 and generate much needed money for the district’s local economy.

It is understood that the Red Arrows daredevil aerobatic display specialists will be approached to take part in the spectacular, together with flights by vintage and modern aircraft.

Cllr Ezekiel added: “We expect the air show to complement major events we already host, including the powerboat grand prix at Ramsgate and Broadstairs Folk Week. This is shaping up to be an excellent summer season for Thanet."