THOUSANDS of people descended upon Bournemouth seafront yesterday to watch the world-famous Red Arrows in action.

Spectators packed onto the pier, beach and promenade as the RAF aerobatic team flew into town to help raise funds for the Daily Echo-backed Julia's House Dorset Children's Hospice Service.

This year's event marked the 100th year of powered flight and the 40th display in Bournemouth.

No one was left disappointed as the Red Arrows performed a breathtaking selection of manoeuvres during their 22-minute display.

Blue, red and white smoke filled the sky as the team performed their skilful moves 8,000 feet above the thousands of spectators.

At one point the Hawk aircraft were just six feet apart and travelling at speeds of up to 850mph. Some of the new 2003 displays included the Mirror Roll and the Champagne Split.

Most visitors arrived early to get the best vantage point for the display including a group of children from Talbot Park Nursery.

The 20 youngsters along with helpers and parents caught a bus into Bournemouth and had a picnic on the pier.

Proprietor Margaret Dixon said: "We are all Red Arrows enthusiasts - it is a big day for the children."

Julia's House charity is about to launch a pilot service to send nurses out into the community to provide much-needed care for children and support for their families.

A total of 40 collectors were out in force with their buckets to raise as much money as possible for the worthy charity.

The visit of the Red Arrows was financially backed by Dorset-based IT company cheaky.com and organised by the Bournemouth Red Arrows Association.

The Red Arrows display was followed by a charity auction and corporate lunch at the Bournemouth International Centre.

Guests had front row seats and raised over £9,000 for Julia's House.

There was strong competition for the auction bidding, which saw £1,000 pledged for a Red Arrows painting by aviation artist Colin van Geffen.

A genuine Red Arrows flying suit donated by Red 6 and leader of the Synchro-pair Sqn Ldr Myles Garland raised £300 and a Twickenham Corporate Rugby package for two.

See Monday's Daily Echo for a full report on the corporate lunch and more fantastic pictures.