THE First Sea Lord will be visiting the Bournemouth Air Festival next month.

Naval staff chief Admiral Sir George Zambellas will attend the event on Friday, August 29, to see, amongst others, the flotilla of ships in the bay and meet the military staff working during the festival.

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Commodore Jamie Miller, naval regional commander, is delighted the admiral is attending what he said is the Royal Navy’s biggest community engagement of the year.

“We are incredibly pleased to be showcasing our work here - the interactive village areas, beach assault demonstrations, music programmes and work of both the Cadets and Reservists - and lots of ships and aircraft too,” he added.

"This really will be cementing the partnerships and relationships we have made over the years and for years to come. And we do like Bournemouth lots too!”

Cllr Lawrence Williams, portfolio holder for tourism at Bournemouth council, said Sir George’s visit is a “fantastic opportunity” to demonstrate how the festival and people of Bournemouth support the armed forces.

He added: “The Royal Navy has played an integral part in making the Air Festival the success it is today and we’re extremely grateful.

“Year-on-year the event continues to grow with more ships, people and assets. And to have Sir George here to experience this first hand is a real accomplishment for us all.”

The Air Festival runs between August 28 and 31. For more information, visit bournemouthair.co.uk.