MARINES are to storm Ayr beach with two helicopters and a warship in a dramatic start to this year’s air show.

The super-fit troops will act out an elite mission on the sand after landing with the Royal Navy Merlins and a minehunter.

The Low Green crowd can expect a rare view of the squad carrying out a lifelike enemy assault.

Doug McLean said: “The Royal Marines will provide an explosive start to the event, which will be very exciting. We expect a beach landing during the capability demonstration.

“It has been an ambition of ours since we started to revolve the programme around Ayr’s maritime roots — last year we didn’t pull it off but now it is going to happen.” A full commentary will accompany the sea and sky spectacle so visitors can understand what is happening during the action.

After the kick-off, the sonar-equipped minehunter vessel will berth in Ayr Harbour for visitors to check out until 5pm.

And the helicopters will be on show during the exhibition the following day.

After the military might of the marines, the iconic Vulcan, Red Arrows, and SpeedTwin Comet will take to skies.

Doug said: “We are doubling the amount of flying this year — there is so much to see. It is a family weekend of entertainment and there will be stalls and a funfair.

“There is a lot more this year and we are going to step it up even more for 2016. There will also be additional space on the Low Green for members of the public. “ Airshow volunteers have also opened a town centre premises in Carrick Street to sell tickets and offer information in the countdown to the big event.

The shop is open on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays with a flight simulator available for aviation enthusiasts.

Doug said: “This is looking really good. Saturday’s entertainment is completely free but we would urge visitors to use the paid for carpark as this money will go into improving future events.” Tickets for the aircraft exhibition on Sunday, September 6 are available online or in the shop and ticket deals include free entry for two children.

The extravaganza relies on sponsorship from local companies, NATs, Spirit and South Ayrshire Council but organisers are seeking more business or individual backers.