THE Bournemouth Air Festival is to be boosted this year with the appearance of a second historic Lancaster.

It means that the world’s only two airworthy Lancasters will fly together for the first – and probably last – time.

They will take centre stage on the Saturday and Sunday of the festival, which takes place between August 28-31.

The second Lancaster is from Canada and flown by the Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum (CWHM).

Museum enthusiasts will fly their Avro Lancaster from Hamilton, Ontario, on August 4 with plans to arrive in England on August 8.

The North Atlantic crossing will include en-route stops at Goose Bay, Labrador, Canada, Narsarsuaq, Greenland, and Keflavik in Iceland, before arriving in the UK.

Jon Weaver, air festival director, said: “I am delighted to confirm we'll be hosting the Canadian Lancaster and her display team this summer.

“This really is a once in a lifetime opportunity to see the world’s only two airworthy Lancasters take to the skies together.

“The aircraft is guaranteed for the weekend and we hope to raise funds for Thursday and Friday, to give everyone a chance to see this unique sight – if anyone is interested is supporting us, please get in touch.”

Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum President and CEO, Squadron Leader (Ret.) David G. Rohrer C.D. who is a current Lancaster pilot, added: “This is a special salute to all the veterans of Bomber Command.

“On behalf of the team and all involved we are really looking forward to displaying for the Bournemouth Air Festival.”