THOUSANDS of excited visitors descended on RNAS Merryfield, near Ilton, for a spectacular open day yesterday (Wednesday, June 6).

With England's footballers engaged in a drab encounter with Estonia, many wisely plumped instead for the high-octane thrills of Merryfield's annual spectacle.

On show was the traditional wide range of light aircraft, while overhead, daring pilots gave thrilling demonstrations in SeaKing and Lynx helicopters.

Children enjoyed hopping on board helicopters and microlights, while a selection of stalls, food vans and a bouncy castle rounded off the entertainment.