Ticket sales for this year's Shoreham Airshow have exceeded all expectations.

Up to 40,000 visitors from around the world are expected at the Shoreham Airshow promising to make the annual event on Saturday and Sunday the biggest yet.

The Argus, which is sponsoring the event, has sold 16,000 tickets since they went on sale at offices and shops across Sussex.

Organisers hope to beat their fund-raising target of £100,000 for the Royal Air Forces Association Wings Appeal.

Spokesman John Periam said: "Ticket sales have been fantastic. We have had bookings made from around the world.

"It looks like it is going to be a real success with up to 40,000 visitors. The air show promises to be a fun-filled event for all the family."

The range of aircraft on show is set to be the largest yet.

Keenly-awaited attractions at the event include the famous Lancaster bomber which took to the skies above Britain 60 years ago.

Withdrawn by the RAF in 1956, it was considered one of the best heavy bombers used by Allies during the Second World War.

Only about 20 identifiable airframes are now known to exist and of these only two still fly.

As a tribute to the Lancaster, this year's show is to be dedicated to the aircraft and those who flew it.

A special display will mark the 90th anniversary of the flight of the first female pilot.

Among the other attractions will be the Blue Eagles helicopter display team, two F-16s from the Danish Air Force and the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight.

The RAF will send the Falcons free fall display team and Jaguar, Hercules, Chinook, Tristar and Harrier aircraft.

Visitors driving to the airfield should use the A27 or A259.

However, visitors are being encouraged to travel by train with a free shuttle bus available from Shoreham station to the airfield on both days.

Tickets can still be bought from Argus offices and more than 20 newsagents across Sussex. Advance tickets cost £7 for adults, £3 for under-16s with under-fives free.

Tickets can also be bought on the day at Shoreham airport. Adults cost £10, children under 16 cost £5 with under-fives free.