WAHT would like to thank Lord March and his staff (Rob Wildeboer and Jeremy Warren in particular) for their fabulous hospitality and wonderful organisation at the Revival. Everything was perfect last weekend from the weather, to the frequent visits of the BBMF and the 2 Lancasters, and to the amazing cars. We had a constant stream of visitors from 8-6:30 pm each day all fascinated by the 1910 design of the BE2 with its RAF 1a engine operating at 14-1500 rpm, its 45-65 mph speed range, and its total loss oil system as the flying suit that I was wearing bears testimony.
It seems that everyone has a story to share about a relative in World War 1. I particularly liked the story about one lady’s grandfather (she was from Chichester) who was flying in a 2-seater with another pilot when they shot down a German aircraft on the German side of the lines. The German managed to land his aircraft but they observed that he did not get out and was slumped over the controls. So, they landed on and discovered the pilot was dead but the aircraft was intact so they pulled him out and recovered both aircraft to their base. If the she would like to get in touch we would love to know more about this amazing story to add them to our growing list of Great War stories.
Looking ahead, WAHT is seeking to get more aircraft flying in UK for next year – Sopwith Tabloid, DH2, Sopwith Pup, Eindecker, Nieuport 17, RE8, Albatros DII are all candidates. We would like to bring at least one of these to Goodwood next year. The interest is there as the response at Goodwood this year clearly demonstrates. The BE2e A2767 is available as a”Gift” aircraft as so many were gifted to the RFC in WW1. WAHT offers to operate and maintain it as part of the deal and TVAL have offered to donate 20% of the sale price to WAHT to help make next year’s programme happen. Spread the word!