THE Red Arrows will not be coming to Lyme Regis for the first time in over 40 years.

The application to bring the RAF’s aerobatic display team to the town in August has been turned down, organisers have been told.

The summer air show was scheduled to take place on 16 August, but the day has been allocated for engineering works.

Plans are already being made to hold other events to attract visitors to Lyme Regis, on what has traditionally been the town’s busiest day of the year.

The display was intended to take place during Community Week, which is scheduled for 13 to 18 August.

Discussions are taking place with the RAF events’ team with the possibility of securing other display teams for Community Week.

For the past two years, local fundraising has ensured the Red Arrows have continued to visit Lyme Regis after it was announced the team could no longer provide a display free-of-charge.

Backed by Lyme Regis Town Council, Red Arrows’ day has raised thousands of pounds for charities in Lyme Regis and Charmouth, as well as helping to fund the following year’s display.

Cllr Cheryl Reynolds, chairman of the town council’s Tourism, Community and Publicity Committee, said: “Although a display by the Red Arrows is never guaranteed, it is very disappointing the team will not be visiting Lyme Regis this year.

“The arrows have become a familiar sight in Lyme Regis, performing their fantastic display here since 1972, and they will certainly be missed this year by both residents and visitors.

“The town is usually full to capacity on Red Arrows’ day, giving our local economy a tremendous boost, and in recent years, supporting local charities.

“People who come to watch the display often plan their holidays or visits to the town to coincide with the display, and the local businesses and charities who benefit so greatly from the day have come to depend on the income it generates.

“That’s why the organisers are keen to keep the momentum going and arrange other exciting events.

“Not having the Red Arrows in Lyme Regis this year doesn’t mean they won’t come in future years. The organisers will continue to raise funds and will most definitely apply for the Red Arrows to return in 2019 and beyond.”