THOUSANDS of spectators at the Bournemouth Air Festival fell silent moments before the start of the final day in a mark of respect for Red Four.

At 1pm organisers announced the death of Flight Lieutenant Jon Egging and paid tribute to Red Four with a short film montage that was played on big screens along the beach.

Hundreds of people, many wearing red in tribute to the fallen Red Arrow, stood up when the announcement came on as silence descended on the packed seafront.

When the film was over there was an involuntarily round of applause from the crowd, many who were still reeling from the tragedy.

In just two hours more than 250 people signed the two books of condolence set up in memory of the pilot.

Mayor of Bournemouth Chris Rochester wrote: “My sincerest sympathy goes out to Flight Lieutenant Jon Egging’s family, friends and colleagues.

“The whole town is shocked and devastated by this tragic accident, and, on behalf of the people of Bournemouth, I pay tribute to Flight Lieutenant Egging’s skill and bravery. May he rest in peace.”

Floral tributes were left on the lawns surrounding the Town Hall, with the Mayor of Bournemouth and Councillor Charon both laying flowers this morning.

The Union Jack flag outside the Town Hall was flown at half-mast as a mark of respect.

The Books of Condolence will be passed to Flight Lieutenant Egging’s widow, Emma, and the donations given to the charity of his family’s choice.

Books will remain available for signing at Bournemouth Town Hall from Monday to Friday this week, from 8.30am to 5.15pm.