THE SKIES of Bournemouth were lit up in a spectacular sea of colour as the first evening of Night Air got under way on Thursday.

A Rolls-Royce spitfire was the first plane to take to the skies during the event, which saw thousands flock to the seafront to catch a glimpse of the action.

See all the pictures from the Night Air display on Thursday in a gallery

As the sun began to set O’Brien’s Flying Circus and Solo Twister thrilled the crowds with their pyrotechnic displays.

And the evening ended with a breathtaking finale as the Red Devils parachute team lit-up the skies as they spiralled to the ground.

A host of entertainment was on offer throughout the evening including live music from the tribute band the Silver Beatles, displays from the Royal Marines Commandos and family fun and games in the Lower Gardens.

Hollie Rogers, aged seven, said the Night Air displays were “awesome”.

Her mother Jo added: “We really have enjoyed it. It’s been a great day. At first we were a bit worried about the weather but it’s been brilliant.”

Amanda O’Leary from Parkstone said: “The parachute team were our favourite. They were just fantastic.

“It’s all been fantastic,” she added.

The mayor of Bournemouth Cllr Chris Mayne said the first day of the festival had been a huge success.

He added: “It’s such a great event for Bournemouth and brings so many people into the town.

“I’m looking forward to the rest of it. There’s going to be different things to see every day.”