Airshow's fireworks axed after wildfire warning

A fireworks display planned for an East Sussex airshow has been cancelled following the government's severe alert for wildfires.

The warning, sent to mobile phones across the UK on Friday, came as it was revealed 19 homes were destroyed and a further 18 damaged in a huge blaze in Stourbridge, West Midlands.

It was revealed earlier in the week that the Red Arrows would not be able to make Airbourne: Eastbourne International Airshow as they are stuck in Canada due to bad weather.

Eastbourne council's tourism member, Jenny Williams, said the decision was taken in the interest of public safety.

"There is still much to enjoy at this year's airshow, from the incredible RAF Typhoon and awesome MiG-17 fast jets, to The Starlings, B-17 'Sally B', interactive military ground attractions and our first ever Red Devils parachute display," she said.

The show began on Thursday and is due to close on Sunday, when the fireworks were planned to take place.

"Now the temperature is cooling a little, this is the perfect time to visit the show and enjoy some of Europe's best display teams," Williams said.

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