DEATH-defying stunts, breathtaking sights and thousands of people, yes it can only be Southend’s legendary airshow.

Trawling through the Echo archives takes us back to sunny days, a jam-packed seafront and fabulous displays.

There’s simply no doubt the iconic show of aircraft became one of, if not the, most favourite days out in the events calendar.

The giant crowds gasped and watched open-mouthed as the highly skilled pilots amazed us more each year.

Our landmarks such as the Cliffs Pavilion and world-famous pier became backdrops for the impressive show.

One could be forgiven for believing the whole south east descended on the seafront year after year.

There were of course plenty of the usual seaside treats, such as fish and chips, Southend rock and candyfloss.

Old pictures remind us all of the scary stunts, such as wing walking and even how military style planes took to the skies.

Only images like this can really show how important and popular this display was, depicting the many thousands of fans.

The exciting Red Arrows were always a firm favourite, with the amazing tricks.

Colourful smoke trails filled the sunny blue skies as planes performed for cheering families.