The annual Bentwaters Open Day was one of the highlights of Suffolk’s calendar – attracting enormous crowds to the American air base.

East Anglian Daily Times: Baton twirlers putting on a performance at the open day Picture: JERRY TURNERBaton twirlers putting on a performance at the open day Picture: JERRY TURNER (Image: JERRY TURNER)

The Americans always put on a stunning show with plenty of entertainment throughout the day for families as well as aviation enthusiasts - as our photos by Jerry Turner at the 1982 event show.

The flying displays were the main highlight with air display teams such as the Red Arrows flying in to show their skills above the spectators, as well as the USAF showing off its military power with fighter jets and support craft taking part in flights and demonstrations.

Elsewhere on the huge airfield, there were model aircraft displays, static exhibitions, and lots of the buidings and hangars open, as well as more traditional fun and entertainment, and lots of food on offer.

Do you remember the Bentwaters Open Days? To share your memories, email judy.rimmer@archant.co.uk

East Anglian Daily Times: Baton twirlers putting on a performance at the open day Picture: JERRY TURNERBaton twirlers putting on a performance at the open day Picture: JERRY TURNER (Image: JERRY TURNER)

East Anglian Daily Times: Baton twirlers putting on a performance at the open day Picture: JERRY TURNERBaton twirlers putting on a performance at the open day Picture: JERRY TURNER (Image: JERRY TURNER)

East Anglian Daily Times: Baton twirlers putting on a performance at the open day Picture: JERRY TURNERBaton twirlers putting on a performance at the open day Picture: JERRY TURNER (Image: JERRY TURNER)

East Anglian Daily Times: Baton twirlers putting on a performance at the open day Picture: JERRY TURNERBaton twirlers putting on a performance at the open day Picture: JERRY TURNER (Image: JERRY TURNER)

East Anglian Daily Times: Baton twirlers putting on a performance at the open day Picture: JERRY TURNERBaton twirlers putting on a performance at the open day Picture: JERRY TURNER (Image: JERRY TURNER)

East Anglian Daily Times: Baton twirlers putting on a performance at the open day Picture: JERRY TURNERBaton twirlers putting on a performance at the open day Picture: JERRY TURNER (Image: JERRY TURNER)