Red Arrows pull out of air show

The Red Arrows have pulled out of Shropshire's RAF Cosford Air Show in June.

The RAF aerobatic team has been forced to cancel appearances at 10 shows after an accident over an airfield in Crete last month delayed training schedules.

Team Synchro Leader, Flight Lieutenant Mike Ling, suffered a dislocated shoulder after ejecting from his aircraft over HAF Kastelli.

Wing commander Nick Lea, of RAF Cosford, said: "The focus of this year's show will be the aircraft that fought in the Battle of Britain and their modern day counterparts.

"So although it is a great shame the Red Arrows cannot be here for 2010, it is fortunate that this is a year where the displays are extra special and performances from current aircraft lined up will blow the crowds away."

Squadron Leader Ben Murphy, Red Arrows team leader, said the decision had not been taken lightly.

But he added: "However, in these exceptional circumstances, we believe it to be in the best interests of all."