Police prepare for thousands of visitors to the annual English Riviera Airshow

As crowds head to Paignton for the popular English Riviera Airshow, police are working to ensure a safe event. Devon & Cornwall Police will conduct extra high-visibility patrols during the show, set to take place on 30 and 31 May and 1 June.

As thousands of people prepare to visit Paignton for the much-loved English Riviera Airshow, police are taking steps to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all.

Devon & Cornwall Police will be carrying out additional high visibility patrols during the event, which is due to take place on 30 and 31 May and 1 June.

The public can expect significant traffic and road closures around Paignton seafront and the surrounding areas, particularly between 10am and 7pm on Saturday and Sunday. Along with Torbay Council police are advising visitors to use public transport, walk or cycle. If you have to drive please car share where possible and please allow extra time for your journey.   

Inspector Pete Giesens, who heads up neighbourhood police teams in Paignton, said: “The Airshow draws thousands of people to this part of the coast every year – it’s a fantastic time to be here in beautiful Devon and there is always a great atmosphere.

“Whilst we anticipate this to be a peaceful event we know how important it is for us to have a presence across the three days. We are not expecting any trouble but there will be lots more people in the area than normal who are here to see the Red Arrows and other entertainment. For our team it’s about showing our commitment to keeping the public safe and connecting with the community.

“Our police officers will be on foot patrol, visiting the busiest areas and also policing our roads. We aim to be visible, accessible and will respond to the needs of the public. We plan our policing activity in advance of these events so, while some officers will be at the Airshow, there are still officers carrying out their regular patrols across the town and surrounding areas to deal with business as usual.  

Inspector Giesens added: “If you need to talk to us about something or just want to meet your local officers then please come up and say hello – that’s what we are here for. Please enjoy yourself if you’re in the area; it’s a great family event. Don’t forget to pack plenty of water and sun cream, make sure you have a charged mobile phone and if you are bringing family or friends - including young children - please make a plan to have an agreed meeting place in case someone gets lost.”   

The Paignton Neighbourhood Police Team regularly post updates about the work they are doing to protect local communities and reduce crime in the area. Please follow the Paignton Police Facebook page.

Alternatively, you can sign up to Devon & Cornwall alert https://alerts.dc.police.uk/ to receive the latest information directly from Devon & Cornwall Police in your area.

Detailed information on road closures and diversion routes will be available on the Airshow website English Riviera Airshow - 30 May - 1 June 2025 and on the Torbay Council website Home - Torbay Council

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