A chance to learn about the history of RAF Gaydon
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The Heritage Motor Centre is to give visitors the chance to learn all about the history of RAF Gaydon at a special lecture on Saturday 2 November. The lecture, to be given by John Bishop, local historian and HMC employee, will give visitors an insight into the history of the airfield plus there will be an opportunity to visit the old RAF Gaydon Control Tower now the Observation Tower - part of the Jaguar Land Rover site.
Gaydon was one of several RAF airfields in the Midlands which enjoyed two separate periods of existence, one as a wartime training base and the other when it was rebuilt and put back into service for very different aircraft. From 1942 - 1974, RAF Gaydon was home to Wellingtons during WW11 and V Bombers during the Cold War RAF at Home days and later, Varsities and Valettas part of the Navigation school.
John Bishop has worked at the Heritage Motor Centre for 17 years and is responsible for promoting and selling the Centre to Clubs and Groups. John’s favourite motor-sport is Rallying and he has taken part in several car based charity events including the Convoy for Heroes World Record attempt in 2012 in his Freelander.
John stated “I’m delighted to be giving this lecture on the history of RAF Gaydon. I’ve always lived in the area and find the subject fascinating, so much so that I organised the 60th Anniversary event in 2002 and set up a small exhibition in the Museum at HMC. I look forward to sharing my knowledge with other liked minded enthusiasts.”
The lecture costs just £30 per person and includes a visit to the former Control Tower, lunch (one course including tea/coffee) and entry to the Museum. The lecture takes place from 10:30am – 3pm and must be pre booked as places are limited. For more information about the HMC please visit www.heritage-motor-centre.co.uk or call 01926 641188.