WATCHING the Red Arrows it is all too easy to forget the extraordinary skill, dedication and bravery that goes into every display.

At speeds of up to Mach 1.2, with 5,200lb of thrust at their disposal, the nine pilots make something unbelievably difficult look matter-of-fact as they weave elaborate patterns in the skies above St Peter Port.

The dangers that were always present underneath that professional exterior were brought home all too brutally this weekend with the death of pilot Jon Egging at the Bournemouth Air Festival.

A gifted aviator, the 33-year-old had won the prestigious Red 4 slot on the right hand outside of the famous diamond nine formation – the best position he could have hoped for after just 12 months with the display team.

Initial reports indicate that he fought with the Hawk T1 aircraft to steer it away from houses before ejecting into a line of trees. As his family said, it was typical of the man that he should firstly think of others even in the face of such extreme danger.

At this early stage it is not clear if Saturday afternoon’s crash will prevent the display team from visiting the island in just over two weeks’ time.

As a safety precaution, investigators have temporarily grounded the Red Arrows until they know the reasons behind the accident.

If the display is shorn of its headline act it will be a poignant reminder to islanders of the tremendous risks taken to entertain them. It may be an annual event but it is one that should never be taken for granted. The sacrifices start with years of intensive training and – as can be seen with Flight Lieutenant Egging – they do not stop there.

This year’s display has already been hit by the loss of help from members of the recently-axed 201 Squadron, who were always willing to shake a bucket in support of the air show.

Islanders now have the opportunity to overcome that handicap and ensure that full recognition is afforded for the bravery of all the air crew who take part in the annual display.