TOWN councillors have been urged to step in and ensure the Red Arrows return to Lyme Regis next year.

Last month, it was announced the iconic jets would not return to Lyme Regis Lifeboat Week.

Organisers learnt that due of the transition of search and rescue services from the RAF to a civilian contractor, display charges will apply in future, and the RNLI cannot afford the cost.

A campaign was launched by Lyme Regis resident Cameron Hodder in an attempt to crowdfund the display, but town councillors will consider whether to underwrite £15,000 to bring the Red Arrows to the town during 2016.

Mr Hodder said: "Losing the Red Arrows would certainly have a huge impact on tourism.

"The town is incredibly lucky to have had the Red Arrows for so long, but the feeling in Lyme is that we should do all we can to ensure we can have them here next year."

In a report to councillors, Lyme Regis town clerk, John Wright has recommended the authority approves making an application to bring the Red Arrows to Lyme Regis, and approves underwriting the cost up to £15,000.

Mr Wright said: "The campaign group has asked the town council to underwrite £5,000 of the estimated cost of bringing the Red Arrows to Lyme Regis in 2016.

"In reality, by submitting an application in the name of the town council, the financial risk is up to the full cost of the Red Arrows' visit."

Mr Wright warned that although there are financial risks to the town council, it is likely the campaigners can collected enough funding to invite the jets to the town next year.

The application to book the Red Arrows must be submitted by October 30.

"The prospect of the campaign group raising £15,000 is looking good," added Mr Wright.

"If it becomes apparent the campaign group can't raise the required amount within the next few weeks, the council can cancel the event. This will come at a cost, which is yet to be determined."

The Red Arrows cannot perform during Lifeboat Week 2016, due to a prior commitment at Sunderland Air Show.

The council will identify a preferred date when applying to the Red Arrows, and it is hoped they can perform between July 31 and August 5.