Thousands of people flocked to Sussex this weekend as the annual Shoreham Airshow took to the skies.

Spitfires and Hurricanes were among the dozens of planes to roar overhead in a series of displays and aerial acrobatics.

Back on the ground at Shoreham Airport there was a chance to see some of the oldest and most up-to-date military and civilian aeroplanes in the world.

People were also able to meet with pilots and crews of some of the planes on show.

Other attractions included displays by the RAF Falcon and Red Devils parachute teams, the Royal Navy's Black Cats elite helicopter display team and the Team Guinot wing-walkers.

There was also a children's circus, helicopter pleasure flights, a giant funfair, marching bands and trade and charity stalls.

The event, organised by the Royal Air Forces Association (RAFA) is now in its 20th year and organisers say it has been bigger and better than ever before.

A show spokesman said: “It has been a brilliant show and one of the best ever.

“The place has been absolutely packed and the flying displays have been fantastic.”

More than 45,000 people visited over the two days with many more gathering on the Downs and open areas close to the airport for a grandstand view of the planes going past.

The show faced tragedy in 2007 when display pilot Brian Brown died after the Hurricane he was flying crashed in front of 20,000 people.

A plaque paying tribute to the experienced Yorkshire aviator is now installed at the entrance to the terminal building.

All proceeds from the annual event goes to the RAFA Charity, which provides welfare and care for RAF veterans from the Second World War through to more recent conflicts in the Gulf and Afghanistan.

It also helps current serving personnel and their families.

More than £1.5 million has been raised for the charity since the show started.