The Red Arrows will be staying in Lincolnshire as new home is confirmed after closure of RAF Scampton

And Gainsborough MP, Sir Edward Leigh, who has been campaigning to keep the aerobatic team in the county, is pleased with the new location.

Sir Edward said: “I have fought to keep the RAF’s aerobatic squadron, the Red Arrows, in our skies in Lincolnshire.

“I am pleased that they will continue to be based in bomber county. I am however saddened that their home at the historic RAF Scampton is to close as an RAF base.

“I know that both Lincolnshire County Council and West Lindsey District Council have been working closely with the Ministry of Defence to prepare for various eventualities and I will continue to support this partnership work as the closure of the base progresses.”

Coun Giles McNeill, leader of West Lindsey District Council, said: “I have been working with my officers and colleagues from the county council in partnership with the Ministry of Defence.

“Sir Edward Leigh has been a key supporter of these efforts and I would like to thank him for his tireless efforts on our behalf.

“I am deeply disappointed that the decision has been taken to close RAF Scampton, while the Red Arrows, we are told, will continue to practice in our skies, they will not be based here.

“The impact of the closure of RAF Scampton is a significant disruption to the local economy and I fully expect West Lindsey District Council to play its part in building a bright future for the base beyond its closure.

“I would expect partnership working to continue with the Ministry of Defence and Lincolnshire County Council, but also increased participation from the Department for Business, Enterprise and Industrial Strategy and local stakeholders and residents.”

Jeremy Quin, defence minister, said: “It is good news that we have an excellent base for them at RAF Waddington, and I am delighted that they will be able to continue to practice their extraordinary aerobatic talents above RAF Scampton in their home county.”​​​​​​​​​​​​​​