It was a spectacular evening at skandia Cowes Week last night, as spectators were not only rewarded with the traditional Friday night fireworks, but a prelude by the Red Arrows.

The RAF aerobatic team gave a sensational performance, arriving over Cowes at precisely 1930. Over 40,000 spectators lined the shore and headed out on the water to watch the nine-strong team flying at up to 500 miles per hour, skimming over the town at just above mast height, for 20 minutes before returning to their base in Bournemouth.

As crowds continued to stream into Cowes, the fireworks barge was positioned just off the Royal Yacht Squadron in readiness for the 2130 big blast. As always the display was very impressive, with one of the best finales ever seen.