Blog
RIAT CANCELLATION
16/07/2008 09:10:06
The organisers of the Royal International Air Tattoo at RAF Fairford in Gloucestershire took the decision to cancel the airshow on both Saturday 12 July and Sunday 13 July.
The decision was taken following lengthy discussions between the organisers, police and other safety services. It was based on concerns for our visitors and the disappointing conclusion was that we could not fully safeguard them.
Despite a huge effort by everyone involved to improve the conditions of the waterlogged public car parks, it became clear that significant areas of the fields and of the showground were unusable.
Air Tattoo Director Tim Prince said: “We have been working around the clock to improve the conditions on the airfield and in the car parks but unfortunately we have run out of time.
“Many people will be desperately disappointed but I would like to assure them that we have tried everything possible within the time available.
“Having worked towards this airshow for the past 12 months, my team at the Royal Air Force Charitable Trust Enterprises and our band of 3,000 enthusiastic and loyal volunteers share the huge sense of frustration.”
The senior Police commander for the Air Tattoo, Supt Tony Godwin, said; “It is with deep regret that the decision has been made to cancel the Royal International Air Tattoo on both days. This decision was not made lightly. It was made in the interest of those visiting or working at the event."
The decision was taken following lengthy discussions between the organisers, police and other safety services. It was based on concerns for our visitors and the disappointing conclusion was that we could not fully safeguard them.
Despite a huge effort by everyone involved to improve the conditions of the waterlogged public car parks, it became clear that significant areas of the fields and of the showground were unusable.
Air Tattoo Director Tim Prince said: “We have been working around the clock to improve the conditions on the airfield and in the car parks but unfortunately we have run out of time.
“Many people will be desperately disappointed but I would like to assure them that we have tried everything possible within the time available.
“Having worked towards this airshow for the past 12 months, my team at the Royal Air Force Charitable Trust Enterprises and our band of 3,000 enthusiastic and loyal volunteers share the huge sense of frustration.”
The senior Police commander for the Air Tattoo, Supt Tony Godwin, said; “It is with deep regret that the decision has been made to cancel the Royal International Air Tattoo on both days. This decision was not made lightly. It was made in the interest of those visiting or working at the event."
Footage of RIAT on Friday 11 July, taken by a Park and View ticket holder
