The Red Arrows saved the day as mist and fog hampered the first day of the Clacton Air Show.

But that did not stop the fun for tens of thousands of sun-lovers as they packed the seafront creating a party atmosphere.

The final performance came around half-an-hour late, ending just before 5pm, with their display having to finish early for safety reasons.

They wowed the crowds, who gave a huge cheer as they flew to 6000ft before slowing down to 150mph, giving their trademark Diamond 9.

Other manoeuvres included flying in the shape of the Space Shuttle, plus others known as Apollo, Typhoon and one called Tornado, which involved lots of swirling around.

They then performed a “Big Vixen Roll” and after a pause for a weather assessment, then flew up into the air to create a big “Hammer| before “weather issues” stopped the performance bar a final fly-past.

The fun had started at 2pm as the Tigers Parachute Team appeared in the distance, giving a colourful display before they dropped down to the sea.

Then came a loud RAF Typhoon, which performed acrobatic displays but again it kept appearing and disappearing in the mist.

Crowds cheered as they certainly could hear the beast, even if they could not always see it.

The RAF Battle of Britain Memorial Flight also appeared, but others did not appear because of the conditions.

Even so, children enjoyed the beach and sea, complete with palm trees that seemed at home in the sun.

Extra rides have also been installed on the seafront.

The gardens were also particularly colourful as Tendring Council put on its best for the town.

Chief executive Ian Davidson told the crowds 250,000 were expected over the two day air show.

The dozens of stalls along Clacton seafront enjoyed a busy day, with long queues at many of them.

Seated by the beach hut decked out in union flag bunting were Clacton sisters Susan Whitlock and Chris Goodahan. They plan to be at the show both days.

“It’s been wonderful. We come every year. We love the atmosphere, everything,” said Susan.

“We love the Red Arrows. We also loved the Tornado, which used to be our favourite but they have been taken away. We once met one of the pilots when they came down to chat to people,” she said.

Pauline and Ray Stoten from Holland-on-Sea said the afternoon was “fabulous.”

“I’m enjoying sitting in the sun. There’s plenty of people here spending money in Clacton,” she said.

They were joined by friends John and Sue Lyon from Herfordshire, who said they “loved the Phantom” but “it was a shame it’s misty.”

Ipswich couple Linda and David Brown were enjoying their first air show and were having to camp at Walton as everywhere is full in Clacton.

“It’s brilliant so far. The whole atmosphere. It’s really lively and bubbly,” said Linda.

“The Typhoon was great,” added David,” We hope it will clear so we can see the rest.”