Dawlish Carnival's air show – which attracts around 100,000 people to the town – is fighting to get off the ground this year.

Organisers have stressed that huge public support is needed to keep the attraction flying in the face of a major drop in financial support.

The show – which has won an award from the European Air Show Council – has the Red Arrows, the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight and the newly-restored Avro Vulcan among its main attractions.

But now a major plea for backing has been issued as the carnival – itself regarded as the best non-illuminated one in the south west – battles to keep its flagship event in the air.