The latest Conservation Centre Open Week has been the busiest ever, with over 3,000 visitors in just six days. One of only two surviving Wellingtons, visitors flocked to see this only complete example of its kind in the world. Other aircraft on show included the Handley Page Hampden, the Sopwith Dolphin and a Spitfire Mk XIX.

The Conservation Centre’s Open Weeks are a growing success story and an established part of the Museum’s busy events calendar. An award winning centre of excellence, the Michael Beetham Conservation Centre has always endeavoured to present something ‘different’ for the many aviation enthusiasts and the draw this November was the presence of a Wellington Bomber. Normally on display at the Museum’s London site, the Conservation Centre had been dismantling the aircraft since February and they collected her from London in July ready to commence a 5-year conservation and restoration programme. Most who attended came into the hangar and stood in awe of the sight that met them – the mighty ‘Wimpy’ proudly showing her tired and torn fabric covering, whilst the removed wings had exposed some of the classic Geodetic frame structure originally designed by the famous Barnes Wallis.

In recognition of the aircraft’s heritage and notable service within WWII, the Museum had this time sought to attract Aircrew, Ground-crew and anyone associated with the build of these wonderful aircraft. Throughout the week the Museum played host to some wonderful veterans and others who had equally fascinating tales to relate.

Manager of the Conservation Centre, Tim Wallis says:

“The Museum Apprentices will collate the many names and feedback left by our special ‘Wellington guests’ throughout this wonderful Open Week. It is hoped to invite many of them back to the Museum for subsequent Open Weeks and any special occasions surrounding the Wellington. The Conservation Centre would like to thank everyone who attended and contributed to what appears to be a firm favourite with aviation enthusiasts and interested public alike. The Museum looks forward to meeting faces old and new at the next event in March.”

In addition to the Wellington, there were other attractions to delight the many tastes of our inquisitive visitors. The rare Sopwith Dolphin is nearing completion and many were fascinated to see just how much work went into building the wooden fuselage and wings.

If members of the public wish to keep up to date with various restoration and conservation projects being conducted by the Michael Beetham Conservation Centre, they can now obtain all the latest news by visiting the Centre’s Blog at www.aircraft-conservation.org

There are two Open Weeks planned for 2011; 14-19 March and 14-19 November. Admission to the Conservation Centre is FREE and from 10.15am to 1.00pm each day during Open Week. Cosford’s main Museum will open daily from 10am – 6pm (last admission 5pm). Admission is FREE of charge. For further information, please contact the Royal Air Force Museum Cosford on 01902 376200 or visit www.rafmuseum.org.