The world's leading skydive display team, the RAF Falcons, has put its own colourful spin on backing England's 2018 FIFA World Cup™ bid.

The team, made up of daring military parachutists, has jumped thousands of feet from a powerful Hercules C-130 aircraft above candidate host city Sunderland - carrying a special two metre 'Back the Bid' flag.

The audacious stunt was part of the city's renowned International Airshow, which drew in hundreds of thousands of visitors to the seafront at Roker and Seaburn last weekend.

Sergeant Neil Flanagan of the RAF Falcons said: "Sunderland is a fantastic airshow and we always enjoy our time here. We were delighted that this year we could add an extra dimension to the display by supporting the World Cup bid."

Sunderland has been chosen alongside 11 other cities to be included in the bid to bring the FIFA World Cup™ to England for the first time since 1966 - when the Black Cats' former home, Roker Park, also staged games.

FIFA's decision on which country will host the 2018 and 2022 World Cup will be announced in December 2010.

Chris Alexander, Sunderland's World Cup Bid Director, said; "The Sunderland International Airshow is the biggest event in the city's calendar and draws crowds from across the country.

"A successful bid for England would obviously mean FIFA World Cup matches being played at the Stadium of Light.

"Sunderland is a city which is passionate about football and this together with the friendly nature of the people of the north east means that visitors to the city would be sure to experience an exciting atmosphere and warm welcome."