The iconic Red Arrows put on a spectacular display in the skies over Kent this afternoon.

They were at the Folkestone Festival where crowds gathered in their thousands.

The cloud cleared in time for an amazing show by the Red Arrows

The team - flying distinctive hawk-fast jets - arrived as part of the display organised by Folkestone and Hythe District Council.

There had been some concerns the weather may cause difficulties with unseasonal low cloud, strong winds and heavy rain but the skies cleared in time for their arrival.

The Red Arrows have performed over the town on many occasions. The last time was in 2019 when thousands watched as part of Armed Forces Day.

Speaking ahead of the 20-minute Folkestone show, new team leader Squadron Leader Tom Bould ("Red 1") said: "We will be displaying some of the biggest shapes in our inventory, including Swan and the Big Vixen Roll with all nine jets just six feet apart, while rolling upside down.

"Hammer Head Break is back, which is a slightly different way to start the second half of the show with an arena-filling spectacle. The Synchro Pair - Reds 6 and 7 - will perform the Boomerang, which is a new manoeuvre for 2021.

"We will also recognise the dedication of the NHS and key workers in the UK, with an all-blue smoke trail in Slalom."

Folkestone Festival also includes food and arts and crafts stalls, live music and a classic car show.

Spectators were encouraged to use public transport while two temporary car parks had also been made available at Radnor Park and Folkestone School for Girls.

The Red Arrows' visit to Kent set off from Biggin Hill, taking them over Sevenoaks, Sittingbourne and Whitstable.

They returned to Biggin Hill at around 4.44pm.

Read more: All the latest news from Folkestone