What are your memories of Mildenhall Air Fete over the years?

Ipswich Star: A spectacular display at Mildenhall in 1988 Picture: BARRY PULLEN/IWITNESSA spectacular display at Mildenhall in 1988 Picture: BARRY PULLEN/IWITNESS (Image: (c) copyright citizenside.com)

As hopes rise for the future of RAF Mildenhall, today we look back at the hugely popular air shows at the Suffolk base, with photos from the 1960s to 1990s.

Ipswich Star: Mildenhall Air Show in 1991 Picture: KEITH MINDHAM/ARCHANTMildenhall Air Show in 1991 Picture: KEITH MINDHAM/ARCHANT

The annual air show was the biggest event of its kind in Europe, but sadly increased security concerns following the 9/11 terrorist attacks meant it never returned after 2001.

Ipswich Star: Youngsters at Mildenhall Air Show in May 1983 Picture: ARCHANTYoungsters at Mildenhall Air Show in May 1983 Picture: ARCHANT

Our photo gallery shows some spectacular displays over the decades, and the crowds flocking to see them, whatever the weather.

Ipswich Star: Mildenhall Air Show in May 1983 Picture: ARCHANTMildenhall Air Show in May 1983 Picture: ARCHANT

In 1988, photographer Andy Abbott had a bird’s eye view from the back of a Hercules, as the RAF Falcons freefall parachute display team made their dramatic exit over the airfield.

Ipswich Star: Rain couldn't put off the crowds at Mildenhall Air Show in 1969 Picture: ARCHANTRain couldn't put off the crowds at Mildenhall Air Show in 1969 Picture: ARCHANT

This week it was announced that US air force personnel due to be transferred from RAF Mildenhall to Germany will not be moving after all.

Ipswich Star: Mildenhall Air Show in 1979 Picture: ARCHANTMildenhall Air Show in 1979 Picture: ARCHANT

The base had been earmarked for closure from 2027 but the latest news has led to hopes it will now have a long-term future.

Ipswich Star: Crowds at Mildenhall Air Show in 1966 Picture: ARCHANTCrowds at Mildenhall Air Show in 1966 Picture: ARCHANT

Email us your memories of Mildenhall air shows or write to Judy Rimmer, Newsroom, 120 Princes Street, Ipswich, Suffolk, IP1 1RS.

Ipswich Star: Some of the spectators at Mildenhall Air Show in 1966 Picture: ARCHANTSome of the spectators at Mildenhall Air Show in 1966 Picture: ARCHANT

To order copies of photos, visit the website or call Diane Townsend on 01603 772449.

Ipswich Star: Mildenhall USAF Air Show in 1991 Picture: ARCHANTMildenhall USAF Air Show in 1991 Picture: ARCHANT