PICTURES: Strikemaster pair perform over Rhyl Beach

Rhyl Journal

a day ago

Rhyl resident Adrian Evans captured incredible photos of the Strikemaster pair, which flew over Rhyl Beach, on June 8. The historic aircrafts roared above gardens and practiced impressive manoeuvres on their way to The RAF Cosford Air Show.
Talking about snapping photos of the BAC 167 Strikemasters, Adrian said: "I was in the kitchen when I heard the noise, grabbed my camera, and rushed upstairs to the balcony, trying to get some shots through all the trees surrounding us.
The jets roar into the sky - the pilots show off their skill! (Image: Adrian Evans) "I've heard many people lament the absence of Rhyl Air Show - it was well-loved, drawing visitors from far and wide, and always highlighted Rhyl in a positive light amidst all the negative news that tends to circulate.
"From what I understand, they couldn't hold the air show this time due to ongoing sea defence work as it would have posed safety concerns.
"I enjoy photographing a variety of subjects, though I don't know much about planes or the military."
The fabulous Strikemaster at dive speed (Image: Adrian Evans) Many residents took to the Rhyl Today Facebook page to share their excitement after spotting the aircraft overhead.
One person wrote: "I was lucky enough to see it all from my bedroom window. It's a pity more people didn't know in advance - only a handful were at the Kite Surf Café."
Another shared: "They did three vertical loops, and then they were gone."
A third commented: "Absolutely brilliant view from my place - loved it!"
Others echoed the excitement:
"They looked amazing - I saw them flying along the coast," said one.
"They did the loop right over my caravan," added another.
One user wrote: "They were heading to RAF Cosford today. I watched the display there - it was fantastic. Bring back the Rhyl Air Show!"
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The Rhyl Air Show took a break in 2024.
The event, organised by Denbighshire Leisure Ltd (DLL), which typically draws thousands to Rhyl, was postponed due to the Red Arrows being on an international tour to celebrate their 60th anniversary. The Red Arrows have been a key feature of the show in previous years.
Jamie Groves, Managing Director of DLL, said at the time: "We have concluded that it would be impossible for DLL to deliver a show in keeping with the proud tradition of the Rhyl Air Show, which also meets public expectations, but we will come back in 2025 stronger."
The show is not expected to take place this August, and no official announcement has yet been made.
The Red Arrows' full 2025 display schedule has been published - and Rhyl is not on the list this year."
Work on the Central Rhyl Coastal Defence Scheme is ongoing.
Work is set to continue this Summer.