BOURNEMOUTH Air Festival got off to a dramatic start on Thursday with an assault on Bournemouth Pier.

Thankfully it was all part of a launch event that showed off the training of the Royal Marines and Cadet Force.

It kicked off with two landing craft arriving at the pier and dropping off a marine. He then made his way up the pier only to be “attacked” by three thugs, who he successfully fought off to hand a welcome letter, to be read out to grateful Mayor, Cllr Barry Goldbart, by Commodore Jamie Miller.

It pledged the Navy’s support to the festival and, once the ceremony was over, the Black Cats Helicopter Display Team treated guests and those on the seafront to a display.

Air Festival director, Jon Weaver, said: “We always try to do something a little different. It was a good bit of drama and a good start.”

The RAF and Army will also be in numbers this weekend, with the forces using the event as a training exercise.

RAF recruitment boss Wing Commander Stuart Williams, said: “It’s a great opportunity for us to get up close and personal with the public.”

Video interview below with Stuart Williams