By CJ

I would just like to mention my own personal sadness at the death of Red Arrows pilot Flight Lieutenant Jon Egging at the Bournemouth Air Show.

 Known in the team as ‘Red 4’, he showed immense courage and professionalism in those last few moments, making the split second decision to sacrifice himself in order to save those below.

The Nation's genuine shock and sadness, I think, says a lot of how we regard The Red Arrows with immense pride.

All the pilots are in fact RAF frontline operational fast jet pilots, flying Tornados and Typhoons over current war zones. They each volunteer to join the Red Arrows team to hone their flying skills and continue the long tradition of RAF pilots in showing their skill and dedication.

Their next scheduled display was to be at the Guernsey Battle of Britain Air Show and this region in particular has cause to remember past RAF bravery in action, with No.79 Squadron flying Hurricanes from RAF Hawkinge, the closest airfield to occupied France.

Following an earlier flypast over Folkestone I sincerely hope they can reform, with plans in hand to invite them back to display in our skies next year. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XRFmaFS-6xU 

Hawkinge Gazette and Channel Coast News 2011©