Liz Coates Gorleston is limbering up for the borough's biggest free event when it flexes its gala muscles with miles of smiles along its scenic clifftop sweep.Climaxing in a best-ever air display and sky-painting fireworks there is also an opportunity for local people to flex their muscles at a strongman competition tomorrow.

Liz Coates

Gorleston is limbering up for the borough's biggest free event when it flexes its gala muscles with miles of smiles along its scenic clifftop sweep.

Climaxing in a best-ever air display and sky-painting fireworks there is also an opportunity for local people to flex their muscles at a strongman competition tomorrow.

The busy weekend which kicks off tonight with the wartime dance follows last year's 10th anniversary formula packed with lots to watch and take part in.

John Barnden, chairman of Gorleston in Gear, the organisation behind the event, said there was stacks to do over the busy weekend with new attractions added, like the fairground Bomber ride.

He said: “We are very excited by it. We have got new rides, new food, new bands and we are providing another fabulous free weekend for all the family with a great array of attractions. Each year we add a little bit.”

Mr Barnden said enthusiasm was high buoyed by a good weather forecast for the weekend. A record 300 children had entered the young artist competition.

Tomorrow's focus on sport sees golf alongside archery and volley ball next to karate as local clubs display their skills and encourage others to join in.

On Sunday 12 arenas will showcase a range of craft and charity stalls and events, with helicopter rides likely to prove popular again.

Live music from 11am will give way to local bands playing tribute to David Bowie in the evening. Mr Barnden said efforts had been made to consolidate everything that had been developed over the last decade.

Insurance costs and the struggle to garner enough jumpers to make it worthwhile had put an end to bungee jumping over the clifftop but there was still plenty of excitement above the ground and on it.

Up in the sky a best-ever air display is promised with the country's only auto gyro licensed display pilot taking part at 5pm on Sunday alongside eight different planes.

Mr Barnden said the event had been 18 months in the planning with preparations for next year's event already under way. The work of the committee is boosted by helpers on the day with some people taking holiday from work to carry out their volunteer duties and to make sure the popular event went off well.