Bosses at Land’s End have unveiled their most exciting Air Sea Rescue Day programme ever as they gear up for one of the biggest events in the South West’s summer calendar.

The annual event at the iconic Cornish attraction highlights the organisations that run rescue operations off the county’s coast.

It also raises money for charity, with Sennen Cove RNLI fund-raising on the day as well as receiving a donation from Land’s End.

This year’s big event on Thursday July 26 will offer visitors a more interactive experience than ever before – with more Royal Navy attractions for them to explore.

The day starts at 10am and runs into the night, with a live Beatles tribute band and a fantastic display of fireworks.

The Royal Navy at RNAS Culdrose will land one of its helicopters at Land’s End and open it up to visitors to climb inside and talk to the pilots – the only chance for people to do so this year.

They will also be able to climb inside a harrier Jump jet cockpit and see helicopter and survival equipment close up at the Culdrose Roadshow Display, hosted in six purposely-designed marquees.

The action-packed programme will also include a dramatic rescue demonstration at sea involving the Royal Navy, the Coastguard and RNLI off the cliffs at Land’s End.

There are plans for a “surprise in the skies” on the day and there will be performances by the Penzamba Samba Band and firebreathing by Swamp Circus performers.

Popular local tribute band “Not The Beatles” will make the evening rock as the countdown to the fireworks begins.

David Bryans, general manager at Land’s End, said: “We’re delighted to be once again recognising the vital role these organisations play in keeping our part of Cornwall safe and secure.

“Air Sea Rescue Day at Land’s End just keeps growing and getting better and better, with a fun-packed programme for all the family to enjoy.

“We see it as giving something back to the community here in Cornwall.

“This year we are running the day rather differently, to give people a far more interactive experience than before.

“There’s a big increase in the amount of equipment and displays being brought by RNAS Culdrose, with so much more for visitors to see and experience.

 “And given the fact the base isn’t holding its Air Day this year, this is the only opportunity people will have to see them up close.”

The organisations taking part in the day include RNAS Culdrose, the RNLI, Sennen Cove Coastguard and Coast Watch.