AS A resident of the East Cliff community, the catastrophe at the Shoreham air show on Saturday reinforces the constant fears of many people in this area that the same kind of disaster may occur at the Bournemouth Air Festival.

Taking risks in life is part and parcel of living and I have experienced my share.

We have seen some amazing displays over the four days, with pilots showing their incredible skills to the thousands in an appreciative crowd.

We must not forget, however, that these displays are dependent on pilots demonstrating the extreme of their capabilities. It cannot in any way be compared with day-to-day piloting of aircraft from A to B.

The rising death toll in Shoreham was not people seeking a thrilling day out, but ordinary people travelling along the A27, going about their daily lives.

Living near the East Cliff, I have frequently been in fear of a similar situation.

I am not a spoilsport, but if I were at the forefront of the organising committee, I would not be happy taking the responsibility of this dangerous pursuit where thousands of people are gathered. It requires taking risks at a level unparalleled in my lifetime.

DEREK HOOPER

Gervis Road