TWO stars of the Bournemouth Air Festival have been spared the axe – but one is on the verge of being grounded forever.

It is thought that the Red Arrows and the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight will both be protected as the government tries to save billions on the UK’s defence budget.

According to a senior source quoted in a national newspaper yesterday they are seen as part of the “nation’s fabric” and will be safeguarded when cuts are announced this week.

Terry Trevett, chairman of the Bournemouth Red Arrows Association, said: “It’s clearly fantastic news, if it comes to fruition, and let’s hope it will lead to the continued strong association between the Reds and Bournemouth.”

The Red Arrows cost £8.8 million a year while the Spitfire, Hurricane and Lancaster of the BBMF cost £3 million – both a tiny percentage of the £38 billion MoD shortfall.

But the news is not so good for the mighty Vulcan bomber, which, as reported in the Daily Echo, needs cash before the end of October to keep it in the air.

Operator Vulcan to the Sky Trust still needs almost £325,000 in the next fortnight to keep her flying.

Phill Jones, from the Bournemouth branch of Vulcan to the Sky, said: “The ground crew that maintain Vulcan XH558 have all been put on official 28 days’ notice.

“Desperate attempts to raise money are being carried out by club members throughout the UK. Vulcan XH558 is the only flying Vulcan in the world after a long and dedicated restoration from Vulcan to the Sky Trust.”

Phill added: “We cannot let this iconic survivor of the Cold War down in her hour of need.”

Anyone who wants to help can contact Phill direct on pj.558@hotmail.com, or text “Vulcan” to 82055 to make a £3 donation.

More information available at vulcantothesky.org