IT WILL be all eyes to the sky on September 3 when the spectacular Red Arrows return to Plymouth for the first time in eight years.

The world-famous pilots will be appearing as part of the Plymouth Airshow, which itself returns after an absence of four years.

This year the event will be held on the 20th anniversary of the RAF, Commonwealth and Allied Monument, and the 70th anniversary of the start of the Second World War.

The event is being dedicated to the men and women who have died or been injured during operations in Afghanistan and Iraq. Ray McSweeney, who is putting together the airshow programme, said the event on the Hoe would feature static shows, stalls and ceremonies, as well as spectacular airborne entertainment. The static shows and stalls will open at 1.30pm.

At 2pm a wreath will be dropped into the waters of Plymouth Sound in memory of all who served during the Second World War.

A flypast of fighters from the United States Air Force (USAF) will follow.

At 3.30pm a Spitfire from the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight will give a display followed by displays by various other aircraft.

The Red Arrows return to the city at 4.45pm. It is believed they will form a heart in the sky for the 20th anniversary of the monument.

At 6pm, as part of the beat retreat, a wreath will be laid at the foot of the RAF, Commonwealth and Allied Monument as a salute to all those who are serving throughout the world today on Allied, NATO and UN duty.

A minute's silence will remember all those who did not return from conflict.

Mr McSweeney, who is also involved with the Plymouth Helping Hands organisation, said: "Plymouth Helping Hands and the Allied Memorial Project felt this year – after receiving many years of help for disabled and carer support from the armed forces – that it is time to put the shoe firmly on the other foot and show support for the armed forces. We invite children and citizens to join the Lord Mayor and international guests in laying a flower on the monument."

A collection will be held on the Hoe in aid of Help for Heroes and in support of Stonehouse Barracks-based 3 Commando Brigade.

The Plymouth Airshow event will be staged by the Allied Memorial Project and Plymouth Helping Hands.

Organisers say that If it is well supported, 2010 will see a return of the airshow and an international tattoo in support of the Armed Forces.

Visit: alliedproject.co.uk, or .myspace.co.uk/alliedproject.