BOURNEMOUTH'S East Overcliff Drive will be closed and a maritime exclusion zone enforced at sea tomorrow when the Red Arrows jet into town.

Tens of thousands are expected to gather along the clifftops to watch the world famous Red Arrows perform their jaw-dropping repertoire of aerobatic manoeuvres, thanks to Bournemouth-based VTSS.

The road closures in the East Cliff area, which will take place between 11am and 12.30pm, are being tried to see if they can help prevent congestion caused by motorists stopping in the road to watch the show. Only residents and the emergency services will be allowed access during the closures.

There will also be a mile-long maritime exclusion zone in operation just off Bournemouth Pier to meet basic safety requirements between 11am and 11.25am and 11.50am and 12.30pm.

Chairman of the Bournemouth Red Arrows Association, Terry Trevett, said: "I do ask everyone on and in the water to respect the zone, which forms an essential part of the safety requirements for the aerial display.

"Please co-operate with and respect the marshals if you are asked to move from your position. They really are there to help us ensure everyone has a safe time while enjoying the displays."

The corners of the exclusion zone, which extend 0.5 nautical miles east and west of Bournemouth Pier and 430 metres out from the pierhead, will be marked out with sailing markers.

Marshall boats, which will be identified by orange flags, and various coastguard and police patrol vessels will be on hand to help and advise.

A band of collectors, identified by yellow bibs and name badges, will be on the scene collecting donations for this year's chosen charity the Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Families Association.

As the Reds do not have a display in the afternoon, fans will have a rare opportunity to speak to the team at Pier Approach from between 2.15pm and 3.45pm.

Friday's entertainment begins at 11.15am with a seven-minute display by a single Tucano aeroplane.