21 July 2012 Last updated at 06:01 ET

Crowds gather for Sunderland International Airshow

A sunset flying display launched the airshow

The annual Sunderland International Airshow has taken to the skies.

Household names from the aeronautical world, including the Red Arrows, are appearing at the event on the Seaburn and Roker seafronts.

Tens of thousands are expected to attend one of the largest free airshows in Europe, now in its 24th year.

On until Sunday 22 July, the highlights include wing-walkers, a Hawker Hunter, the Black Cats display team, and a Battle of Britain Memorial Flight.

There will also be a full programme of events in the display arena.

The armed forces traditionally use the event as a recruitment opportunity.

Sue Stanhope, the airshow director, said: "There's lots of things to do. It's going to be spectacular."