CLACTON’S annual air show could be in for an overhaul next year, in an effort to boost the local economy.

Town hall bosses say they may expand next year’s event to include other features, including a concert and a funfair.

This year’s show attracted 140,000 visitors over two days, and leading Tendring councillors are keen to find ways to make it more of a money-spinner for local businesses.

Peter Halliday, councillor responsible for finance, said: “We are missing a massive opportunity to capitalise on having 140,000 people in Tendring.

“The greensward could be far better utilised in a more commercial way and there is an opportunity for the district to make money.

“There is also the opportunity to have a funfair there to keep people here after the air show finishes, at 4pm. Over the next 12 months we will look at how we can make next year’s a far bigger and better experience.”

Stephen Mayzes, councillor responsible for leisure, maintained the air show was still great value for money. Staging it cost the council less than 50p for each Tendring resident.

However, he suggested the air show should be rechristened an “air festival” – with a music event staged at the same time.

In a letter to the Gazette early this week Clacton resident Bob Hibbert was highly critical of this year’s air show. Mr Hibbert, of Crown Road, wrote: “Since moving to the area 13 years ago, I have seen virtually every air show, but in my opinion, this year’s was probably the worst.

“We had the old favourites like the Red Arrows and the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight but where were the fast, noisy jets we’re used to, such as the Jaguar, Tornado and Typhoon? They are the big crowd-pullers?

“The air show is the town’s biggest draw, but unless the organisers compile an exciting programme, aero-enthusiasts and the public in general will vote with their feet.”