Some of the Air Festival’s biggest supporters gathered at the Highcliff Marriott on the eve of the show to celebrate the raising of thousands of pounds for charity.

The start of sixth and final Patrons’ evening on the hotel’s lawn was marked, right on cue, with a flypast by the Red Arrows. It was particularly appropriate because guests at the event included Dawn and Emma Egging.

The good causes benefitting from the fundraising are the Royal Navy and Royal Marines Charity, Hounds for Heroes and the Jon Egging Trust.

The Royal Navy’s Commodore Jamie Miller said the service was bringing more ships than ever to the party and urged everyone to have “a wonderful festival.”