Lincolnshire Airfields - Past & Present http://lincolnshireairfields.fotopic.net/ 56 rows en-gb 60 Lincolnshire - Scopwick War Graves http://lincolnshireairfields.fotopic.net/c1364962.html Scopwick's War Graves are located in a cemetery to the north of the village in Vicarage Lane. It contains about 70 Commonwealth War Graves, many from the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) which served at nearby RAF Digby during WW2. There are also some German war graves and pre-WW2 military graves. Wednesday 29 August 2007: Scopwick's War Graves are located in a cemetery to the north of the village in Vicarage Lane. It contains about 70 Commonwealth War Graves, many from the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) which served at nearby RAF Digby during WW2. There are also some German war graves and pre-WW2 military graves.

Published in Lincolnshire Airfields - Past & Present

]]> Wed Aug 29 2007 Nottinghamshire - RAF Winthorpe http://lincolnshireairfields.fotopic.net/c1194132.html Nottinghamshire - RAF Winthorpe Saturday 20 January 2007: Nottinghamshire - RAF Winthorpe

Published in Lincolnshire Airfields - Past & Present

]]> Sat Jan 20 2007 Lincolnshire - RAF Cranwell http://lincolnshireairfields.fotopic.net/c1155455.html Lincolnshire - RAF Cranwell Sunday 5 September 2004: Lincolnshire - RAF Cranwell

Resident Jet Provost at the Cranwell Heritage Centre

Published in Lincolnshire Airfields - Past & Present

]]> Sun Sep 5 2004 Lincolnshire - RAF Elsham Wolds http://lincolnshireairfields.fotopic.net/c1155454.html More to follow..... Monday 25 July 2005: More to follow.....

J Type Hangar at Elsham Wolds

Published in Lincolnshire Airfields - Past & Present

]]> Mon Jul 25 2005 Norfolk - RAF Langham http://lincolnshireairfields.fotopic.net/c1015072.html Langham opened at the beginning of WW2 as a satellite airfield for Bircham Newton. Its status was raised to that of an independent station during 1942, and the station closed for a major expansion, including the laying of concrete runways, perimeter tracks and dispersals. It was put onto care and maintenance in 1947, but the airfield had a new lease of life during the RAF preparations for the Korean War, and it was later used as an emergency landing strip by RAF Sculthorpe, a large USAFE base nearby, but it was eventually closed in the early 1960s. It is now used as a poultry farm. The Langham Dome, a former training facility, still stands near the airfield. Friday 7 July 2006: Langham opened at the beginning of WW2 as a satellite airfield for Bircham Newton. Its status was raised to that of an independent station during 1942, and the station closed for a major expansion, including the laying of concrete runways, perimeter tracks and dispersals. It was put onto care and maintenance in 1947, but the airfield had a new lease of life during the RAF preparations for the Korean War, and it was later used as an emergency landing strip by RAF Sculthorpe, a large USAFE base nearby, but it was eventually closed in the early 1960s. It is now used as a poultry farm. The Langham Dome, a former training facility, still stands near the airfield.

Published in Lincolnshire Airfields - Past & Present

]]> Fri Jul 7 2006 Norfolk - RAF Oulton http://lincolnshireairfields.fotopic.net/c1001559.html Norfolk - RAF Oulton Monday 19 June 2006: Norfolk - RAF Oulton

Published in Lincolnshire Airfields - Past & Present

]]> Mon Jun 19 2006 Norfolk - RAF Matlaske http://lincolnshireairfields.fotopic.net/c1001548.html Norfolk - RAF Matlaske Saturday 24 June 2006: Norfolk - RAF Matlaske

Published in Lincolnshire Airfields - Past & Present

]]> Sat Jun 24 2006 Lincolnshire - RAF Sutton Bridge memorial http://lincolnshireairfields.fotopic.net/c1001534.html Lincolnshire - RAF Sutton Bridge memorial Sunday 25 June 2006: Lincolnshire - RAF Sutton Bridge memorial

Published in Lincolnshire Airfields - Past & Present

]]> Sun Jun 25 2006 Nottinghamshire - RAF Syerston http://lincolnshireairfields.fotopic.net/c976622.html Syerston was an expansion scheme airfield completed late in 1940. It was to the standard specification with two Type J hangars providing aircraft repair and maintenance cover. At a later date three T2 and a B1 hangar were erected on the site. Allocated to No. 1 Group, the station was first occupied in December 1940 by Nos. 304 and 305 Squadrons, manned largely by Poles. In July 1941, Syerston was transferred to No. 5 Group and Lindholme to No. 1 Group, the Polish squadrons departing for the latter and No. 408 Squadron, an RCAF unit, arriving from the former. The three intersecting runways are the main 07-25 at 1,950 yards long and 12-30 and 16-34, both at 1,400 yards. Additional domestic sites were built on land to the north-east, chiefly in Flintham Park. At sometime after , three more T2 hangars were erected for glider storage. A number of other units occupied Syerston until 49 Squadron left in October 1945. Syerston was transferred over to Transport Command. However, in May 1946, No. 504 (County of Nottingham) Squadron, Auxilliary Air Force, re-formed at Syerston to fly Mosquitos and was present for eleven months. The station then passed to Flying Training Command in November 1947 until 1971 when it went on to care and maintenance with its accommodation and flying field used by service units, notably in connection with gliding activities. Most of the buildings were demolished in 1997 save for the control tower, two hangars and one H-Block used today by the Central Gliding School for the Air Training Corps. Wednesday 31 May 2006: Syerston was an expansion scheme airfield completed late in 1940. It was to the standard specification with two Type J hangars providing aircraft repair and maintenance cover. At a later date three T2 and a B1 hangar were erected on the site. Allocated to No. 1 Group, the station was first occupied in December 1940 by Nos. 304 and 305 Squadrons, manned largely by Poles. In July 1941, Syerston was transferred to No. 5 Group and Lindholme to No. 1 Group, the Polish squadrons departing for the latter and No. 408 Squadron, an RCAF unit, arriving from the former. The three intersecting runways are the main 07-25 at 1,950 yards long and 12-30 and 16-34, both at 1,400 yards. Additional domestic sites were built on land to the north-east, chiefly in Flintham Park. At sometime after , three more T2 hangars were erected for glider storage. A number of other units occupied Syerston until 49 Squadron left in October 1945. Syerston was transferred over to Transport Command. However, in May 1946, No. 504 (County of Nottingham) Squadron, Auxilliary Air Force, re-formed at Syerston to fly Mosquitos and was present for eleven months. The station then passed to Flying Training Command in November 1947 until 1971 when it went on to care and maintenance with its accommodation and flying field used by service units, notably in connection with gliding activities. Most of the buildings were demolished in 1997 save for the control tower, two hangars and one H-Block used today by the Central Gliding School for the Air Training Corps.

Syerston's Officers Mess Syerstons Officers mess with squash courts A view along the runway from the A46 crash gate ATC gliding taking place J Type hanger The second J type hanger J type hanger in use

Published in Lincolnshire Airfields - Past & Present

]]> Wed May 31 2006 Lincolnshire - RAF Digby http://lincolnshireairfields.fotopic.net/c973048.html Digby opened as RAF Scopwick on 28 Mar 1918, three days before the formation of the RAF. It had been active since late 1917 as a satellite airfield for RNAS Cranwell. RAF Scopwick was re-named RAF Digby in Apr 1920. After the war the station became a Technical Training Unit with flying training (19 Flying Training and No 1 and 2 Initial Training Schools) In 1955 399 Signals Unit arrived, to be joined by 591 Signals Unit and the Aerial Erectors School. 399 SU became the Joint Service Signals Unit on 15 Sep 1998. Digby sector ops room has been restored to its wartime state and is open to visitors. As RAF Digby is an active unit, these pictures are restricted to areas open to the public. Sunday 28 May 2006: Digby opened as RAF Scopwick on 28 Mar 1918, three days before the formation of the RAF. It had been active since late 1917 as a satellite airfield for RNAS Cranwell. RAF Scopwick was re-named RAF Digby in Apr 1920. After the war the station became a Technical Training Unit with flying training (19 Flying Training and No 1 and 2 Initial Training Schools) In 1955 399 Signals Unit arrived, to be joined by 591 Signals Unit and the Aerial Erectors School. 399 SU became the Joint Service Signals Unit on 15 Sep 1998. Digby sector ops room has been restored to its wartime state and is open to visitors. As RAF Digby is an active unit, these pictures are restricted to areas open to the public.

The gate guard at RAF Digby has been a plastic Spitfire for the last 20 years or so

Published in Lincolnshire Airfields - Past & Present

]]> Sun May 28 2006 Nottinghamshire - RAF Newton http://lincolnshireairfields.fotopic.net/c870144.html Nottinghamshire - RAF Newton Thursday 23 February 2006: Nottinghamshire - RAF Newton

Published in Lincolnshire Airfields - Past & Present

]]> Thu Feb 23 2006 Lincolnshire - RAF Kirton in Lindsey http://lincolnshireairfields.fotopic.net/c870138.html Originally an RAF station before spending many years in Army hands as Rapier Barracks. Kirton-in-Lindsay was returned to the RAF in 2004 and is currently home to the RAF's 1 ACC Unit Thursday 23 February 2006: Originally an RAF station before spending many years in Army hands as Rapier Barracks. Kirton-in-Lindsay was returned to the RAF in 2004 and is currently home to the RAF's 1 ACC Unit

A C type Hangar at Kirton-in-Lindsey

Published in Lincolnshire Airfields - Past & Present

]]> Thu Feb 23 2006 Rutland - RAF Woolfox Lodge http://lincolnshireairfields.fotopic.net/c865794.html Rutland - RAF Woolfox Lodge Wednesday 18 January 2006: Rutland - RAF Woolfox Lodge

Published in Lincolnshire Airfields - Past & Present

]]> Wed Jan 18 2006 Lincolnshire - RAF Barkston Heath http://lincolnshireairfields.fotopic.net/c802504.html Barkston Heath has had a long life in both USAAF and RAF hands, and is still used today as a training airfield. It remains today looking much as it would have during the the second World War. As Barkston Heath is still an active military airfield my pictures are restricted to long term resident Canberra B(I)8 WT339 Wednesday 21 December 2005: Barkston Heath has had a long life in both USAAF and RAF hands, and is still used today as a training airfield. It remains today looking much as it would have during the the second World War. As Barkston Heath is still an active military airfield my pictures are restricted to long term resident Canberra B(I)8 WT339

Published in Lincolnshire Airfields - Past & Present

]]> Wed Dec 21 2005 Nottinghamshire - RAF Balderton http://lincolnshireairfields.fotopic.net/c801633.html RAF Balderton was located south of Balderton. Today nothing remains, the site having been extensivley mined and bisected by the A1. Aerial views of the site give very little idea about the former airfield layout. Several miles North of the site, another RAF relic survives in the form of Lightning F2A XN728, although as ever it's future is uncertain. Tuesday 5 April 2005: RAF Balderton was located south of Balderton. Today nothing remains, the site having been extensivley mined and bisected by the A1. Aerial views of the site give very little idea about the former airfield layout. Several miles North of the site, another RAF relic survives in the form of Lightning F2A XN728, although as ever it's future is uncertain.

Balderton's Lightnig. Days are numbered? Balderton's famous Lightning

Published in Lincolnshire Airfields - Past & Present

]]> Tue Apr 5 2005 Northamptonshire - RAF Deenethorpe (USAAF) http://lincolnshireairfields.fotopic.net/c801534.html RAF Deenethorpe is situated 9 miles North East of Kettering in Northamptonshire. The base opened in 1943. It was known as USAAF Station: 128 when home to the bombers of 612, 613, 614, 615 Sqns of the 401st Bomb Group who flew 255 combat missions from here losing 95 B-17s between December 1943 and June 1945. For a year from June 1945 the site was used as No. 11 Recruitment Centre by the RAF. It was also used for many years by the Royal Observer Corps. The airfield closed to military aviation in 1946 and today the site is mainly used for agriculture, although some light civil aviation still takes place. Wednesday 21 December 2005: RAF Deenethorpe is situated 9 miles North East of Kettering in Northamptonshire. The base opened in 1943. It was known as USAAF Station: 128 when home to the bombers of 612, 613, 614, 615 Sqns of the 401st Bomb Group who flew 255 combat missions from here losing 95 B-17s between December 1943 and June 1945. For a year from June 1945 the site was used as No. 11 Recruitment Centre by the RAF. It was also used for many years by the Royal Observer Corps. The airfield closed to military aviation in 1946 and today the site is mainly used for agriculture, although some light civil aviation still takes place.

Published in Lincolnshire Airfields - Past & Present

]]> Wed Dec 21 2005 Lincolnshire - RAF Fulbeck http://lincolnshireairfields.fotopic.net/c801494.html Built to Class A standard, the runways were O5-23 at 2,000 yards, 12-30 and O1-19 both 1,400 yards long. Thirty-six pan-type hardstandings were dispersed round the perimeter track and five T2 hangars were erected. The technical and administration sites were backed up against the stream known as Sandy Beck on the east side of the airfield, and the weapons store was to the south near runway O5. In 1943 Fulbeck was allocated for USAAF use and in October the first of nine newly-raised troop carrier groups to reach the UK arrived at Fulbeck. The IX Troop Carrier Command relinquished the airfield for good in late September 1944 and 49 Squadron from Fiskerton transferred. Bomber Command operations from Fulbeck cost 38 Lancasters, either failing to return or destroyed in crashes. The airfield was later on a care and maintenance status. Retained as a reserve airfield, Fulbeck was also used as a Ministry of Defence training area playing host to a number of military exercises, a role it continues to this day. I have visited Fulbeck twice, and both times have been unable to gain access due to military exercises. Thursday 28 July 2005: Built to Class A standard, the runways were O5-23 at 2,000 yards, 12-30 and O1-19 both 1,400 yards long. Thirty-six pan-type hardstandings were dispersed round the perimeter track and five T2 hangars were erected. The technical and administration sites were backed up against the stream known as Sandy Beck on the east side of the airfield, and the weapons store was to the south near runway O5. In 1943 Fulbeck was allocated for USAAF use and in October the first of nine newly-raised troop carrier groups to reach the UK arrived at Fulbeck. The IX Troop Carrier Command relinquished the airfield for good in late September 1944 and 49 Squadron from Fiskerton transferred. Bomber Command operations from Fulbeck cost 38 Lancasters, either failing to return or destroyed in crashes. The airfield was later on a care and maintenance status. Retained as a reserve airfield, Fulbeck was also used as a Ministry of Defence training area playing host to a number of military exercises, a role it continues to this day. I have visited Fulbeck twice, and both times have been unable to gain access due to military exercises.

Fulbeck memorial Fulbeck Rifle butts

Published in Lincolnshire Airfields - Past & Present

]]> Thu Jul 28 2005 Lincolnshire - RFC Leadenham http://lincolnshireairfields.fotopic.net/c801492.html Lincolnshire - RFC Leadenham Thursday 28 July 2005: Lincolnshire - RFC Leadenham

RFC Leadenham RFC Leadenham flying field

Published in Lincolnshire Airfields - Past & Present

]]> Thu Jul 28 2005 Lincolnshire - RAF Faldingworth http://lincolnshireairfields.fotopic.net/c801491.html Lincolnshire - RAF Faldingworth Saturday 19 February 2005: Lincolnshire - RAF Faldingworth

Remarkably original Nissen hut from a dispersed site at Faldingworth Lincolnshire A remaining B1 MAP Hangar at Faldingworth, with the secure area in the foreground

Published in Lincolnshire Airfields - Past & Present

]]> Sat Feb 19 2005 Northamptonshire - RAF Spanhoe Lodge (USAAF) http://lincolnshireairfields.fotopic.net/c801489.html Spanhoe Airfield is commemorated by a memorial erected in 1983, on the site of the main entrance to the airfield. Home to the USAAF 315th Troop Carrier Group of the 9th Army Airforce, Spanhoe's C47 Dakota's towed the gliders which carried the British, American and Polish paratroopers and supplies to the D-Day beaches, Arnhem and the Rhine crossing in 1944-45. Wednesday 21 December 2005: Spanhoe Airfield is commemorated by a memorial erected in 1983, on the site of the main entrance to the airfield. Home to the USAAF 315th Troop Carrier Group of the 9th Army Airforce, Spanhoe's C47 Dakota's towed the gliders which carried the British, American and Polish paratroopers and supplies to the D-Day beaches, Arnhem and the Rhine crossing in 1944-45.

Published in Lincolnshire Airfields - Past & Present

]]> Wed Dec 21 2005 Lincolnshire - RAF Folkingham (USAAF) http://lincolnshireairfields.fotopic.net/c800642.html In early days, RAF Folkingham served as a decoy or fake for RAF Spitalgate. During the day there were dummy planes and lots of activity. During the night it was a Q site or night time decoy (with dummy lighting fitted) that successfully attracted the Luftwaffe. Later it became a Troop Carrier airfield of the 82nd, and much later Folkingham was also 3 RAF Regt Depot after the war. BRM racing motors made use of Folkingham's empty runways in in the 1950s test their cars, until the arrival of THOR. RAF Folkingham later served as a Thor missile base with 3 IRBM launchers under 223 (SM) Sqn. These were subordinated to the North Luffenham Wing rather than the Hemswell Wing. 223 reformed at Folkingham as a Thor strategic missile squadron on 1 Dec 1959, disbanding on 23 Aug 1963. Today little remains and it is now used for agriculture and as scrap vehicle compound, although there are remnants of the airfield buried in nearby Temple Wood, they date from the site's WWII days. All that remains of Project Emily are three sites with a characteristic ground signature on the Folkingham side of the airfield. Tuesday 20 December 2005: In early days, RAF Folkingham served as a decoy or fake for RAF Spitalgate. During the day there were dummy planes and lots of activity. During the night it was a Q site or night time decoy (with dummy lighting fitted) that successfully attracted the Luftwaffe. Later it became a Troop Carrier airfield of the 82nd, and much later Folkingham was also 3 RAF Regt Depot after the war. BRM racing motors made use of Folkingham's empty runways in in the 1950s test their cars, until the arrival of THOR. RAF Folkingham later served as a Thor missile base with 3 IRBM launchers under 223 (SM) Sqn. These were subordinated to the North Luffenham Wing rather than the Hemswell Wing. 223 reformed at Folkingham as a Thor strategic missile squadron on 1 Dec 1959, disbanding on 23 Aug 1963. Today little remains and it is now used for agriculture and as scrap vehicle compound, although there are remnants of the airfield buried in nearby Temple Wood, they date from the site's WWII days. All that remains of Project Emily are three sites with a characteristic ground signature on the Folkingham side of the airfield.

Concrete roads within Temple Woods Concrete roads within Temple Woods Bomb dump revetments Remains of the bomb dump Remains of the bomb dump Destroyed building with drain in foreground Destroyed building Concrete road leading to airfield view from woods towards airfield Peri-track leading from bomb dump View from access gate Track leading to bomb dump Guard hut / Picket post plinth? remains of Thor site Fuel storage tank plinth Air Ministry road leading from airfield. Air Ministry road leading to airfield.

Published in Lincolnshire Airfields - Past & Present

]]> Tue Dec 20 2005 Lincolnshire - RAF Skellingthorpe http://lincolnshireairfields.fotopic.net/c675643.html In Nov 1941, 50 Squadron's Hampdens transferred from Swinderby to `Skellingthorpe. In Apr 1942, No. 50 commenced conversion to the Manchester but then its troubles began. During two months only 120 sorties were flown with the type and seven lost before it was replaced by Lancasters. To convert to Lancasters and allow the main runway to be extended, the squadron returned to Swinderby in June 1942. 350 yards were added to the north-east end of 07-25, the work being completed by September. 50 Squadron returned in October 1942 and for a year was the sole operational unit at the station. With sufficient accommodation and facilities to take a second squadron, in November 1943 No. 61 arrived from Syerston, which was to be used for operational training. There were then 30 to 36 Lancasters regularly based at Skellingthorpe. On May 19, 1944, the deaths of two airmen and substantial damage to a hangar resulted from the detonation of three l,OOO lb bombs dislodged from a tractor-towed bomb trolley train. A total of 208 bombers failed to return or were lost in UK crashes during the operations flown from Skellingthorpe: 15 Hampdens, six Manchesters and 187 Lancasters. A proposal in 1948 to convert the airfield into a civil airport came to nothing and the main occupant until the early `fifties was No. 58 Maintenance Unit using hangars for storage. In the 1970s-80s, close proximity to Lincoln brought the site to the attention of developers resulting in the gradual encroachment of housing estates on the north-eastern side so that few visible traces of the airfield remain at the end of the century. There is a memorial to Nos. 50 and 61 Squadrons in the nearby Birchwood Community Centre. Friday 2 September 2005: In Nov 1941, 50 Squadron's Hampdens transferred from Swinderby to `Skellingthorpe. In Apr 1942, No. 50 commenced conversion to the Manchester but then its troubles began. During two months only 120 sorties were flown with the type and seven lost before it was replaced by Lancasters. To convert to Lancasters and allow the main runway to be extended, the squadron returned to Swinderby in June 1942. 350 yards were added to the north-east end of 07-25, the work being completed by September. 50 Squadron returned in October 1942 and for a year was the sole operational unit at the station. With sufficient accommodation and facilities to take a second squadron, in November 1943 No. 61 arrived from Syerston, which was to be used for operational training. There were then 30 to 36 Lancasters regularly based at Skellingthorpe. On May 19, 1944, the deaths of two airmen and substantial damage to a hangar resulted from the detonation of three l,OOO lb bombs dislodged from a tractor-towed bomb trolley train. A total of 208 bombers failed to return or were lost in UK crashes during the operations flown from Skellingthorpe: 15 Hampdens, six Manchesters and 187 Lancasters. A proposal in 1948 to convert the airfield into a civil airport came to nothing and the main occupant until the early `fifties was No. 58 Maintenance Unit using hangars for storage. In the 1970s-80s, close proximity to Lincoln brought the site to the attention of developers resulting in the gradual encroachment of housing estates on the north-eastern side so that few visible traces of the airfield remain at the end of the century. There is a memorial to Nos. 50 and 61 Squadrons in the nearby Birchwood Community Centre.

Memorial at Skellingthorpe Skellingthorpe memorial Village sign Village flag displaying aviation heritage Skellingthorpe Heritage room Heritage room displays Heritage room displays Heritage room displays Birchwood memorial Birchwood memorial Birchwood memorial Birchwood memorial Birchwood memorial Birchwood memorial

Published in Lincolnshire Airfields - Past & Present

]]> Fri Sep 2 2005 Nottinghamshire - Newark Air Museum http://lincolnshireairfields.fotopic.net/c672488.html Pictures from the first Enthusiasts Day held on Aug 30th 2005, again on the 20th January 2007 and a few from a previous visit on Jan 16th 2005 Tuesday 30 August 2005: Pictures from the first Enthusiasts Day held on Aug 30th 2005, again on the 20th January 2007 and a few from a previous visit on Jan 16th 2005

SAAB Draken AR-107 Mig-23 ML SA Jetstream Varsity, Gannet, Beverly Sea Harrier FRS2 ZA176 Meteor FR9 VZ608 HP Hastings T5 TG517 Avro Shackleton Mk3 WR977 Canberra B(I)8 WV787 Avro Vulcan B2 XM594 Folland Gnat T1 XR534 Slingsby Cadet TX1 Luscombe P3 Rattler G-BKPG EE Canberra T19 WH904 HP Hastings T5 TG517 Avro Anson C19 VL348 DH Vampire T11 XD593 Hangar 1 general View Percival Prentice VR249 Zurowski ZP1 Avro Shackleton Mk3 WR977 Avro Shackleton Mk3 WR977 Avro Vulcan B2 XM594 Avro Vulcan B2 XM594 Avro Vulcan B2 XM594 DH Dove 1 G-AHRI AW Argosy C1 Cockpit Avro Ashton WB491 MIG-23ML '07' MIG-23K '71' MIG-23ML '07' Vickers Varsity T1 WF369 Hawker Hunter F1 WT651 Gloster Javelin FAW 8 XH992 DH Heron 1B G-ANXB Fairey Gannet AEW3 XP226 Westland Wessex HC2 XV728 Dassault Mystere IV.A No.83 HP Hastings T5 TG517 HP Hastings T5 TG517 Avro Shackleton Mk3 Phase 3 WR977 Avro Shackleton Mk3 Phase 3 WR977 Avro Vulcan B2 XM594 Avro Vulcan B2 XM594 Avro Vulcan B2 XM594 EE Canberra PR9 XH177 EE Canberra T17 WH863 De Havilland Heron 1B G-ANXB Fairey Gannet AEW3 XP226

Published in Lincolnshire Airfields - Past & Present

]]> Tue Aug 30 2005 South Glamorgan - RAF Llandow http://lincolnshireairfields.fotopic.net/c651219.html South Glamorgan - RAF Llandow Wednesday 10 August 2005: South Glamorgan - RAF Llandow

Published in Lincolnshire Airfields - Past & Present

]]> Wed Aug 10 2005 Lincolnshire - RAF North Witham (USAAF) http://lincolnshireairfields.fotopic.net/c632710.html A visit to the Former RAF North Witham which is located in Twyford Woods Nr Colsterworth. The visit was cut short due to a torrential downpour. More photo's and commentry soon. Thursday 28 July 2005: A visit to the Former RAF North Witham which is located in Twyford Woods Nr Colsterworth. The visit was cut short due to a torrential downpour. More photo's and commentry soon.

Published in Lincolnshire Airfields - Past & Present

]]> Thu Jul 28 2005 Lincolnshire - RAF Hibaldstow http://lincolnshireairfields.fotopic.net/c630618.html Opened on 12 May 1941 and lasting a short while beyond war's end, closing in 1947 with buildings dismantled around then. During 1943 it became a satellite of RAF Kirton-in-Lindsey when that station changed role and became a training not a fighter base. 255 Sqn were the first occupants from the airfield's commissioning, arriving with Defiants from Kirton in Lindsey and scoring the first kill from Hibaldstow on 5 Jun 1941 against an He-111. 255 Sqn was joined by 253 Sqn from Orkney in Sep 1941. The receding threat posed by Luftwaffe night-time operations lead to closure on 23 Jan 1943. The airbase re-opened on 9 May 1943 for a 53 OTU detail from Kirton-in-Lindsey and once again closed on 15 May 1945. The land was sold off in 1960/61. Monday 25 July 2005: Opened on 12 May 1941 and lasting a short while beyond war's end, closing in 1947 with buildings dismantled around then. During 1943 it became a satellite of RAF Kirton-in-Lindsey when that station changed role and became a training not a fighter base. 255 Sqn were the first occupants from the airfield's commissioning, arriving with Defiants from Kirton in Lindsey and scoring the first kill from Hibaldstow on 5 Jun 1941 against an He-111. 255 Sqn was joined by 253 Sqn from Orkney in Sep 1941. The receding threat posed by Luftwaffe night-time operations lead to closure on 23 Jan 1943. The airbase re-opened on 9 May 1943 for a 53 OTU detail from Kirton-in-Lindsey and once again closed on 15 May 1945. The land was sold off in 1960/61.

Intersection of runways from Northern perimeter Resident aircraft Resident aircraft Sheds on airfield B1 MAP Hangar Western threshold of main runway Intact main runway Intact main runway Modern day occupants Current hangar B1 map hangar dwarfed by pallets Southern perimeter track

Published in Lincolnshire Airfields - Past & Present

]]> Mon Jul 25 2005 Lincolnshire - RAF North Killingholme http://lincolnshireairfields.fotopic.net/c630529.html Built to Class A standard in August 1942. The three runways were 04-22 at 2,000 yards and 09-27 and 15-33 both at 1,400 yards. The 36 hardstandings were all loop type. A T2 hangar stood by the technical site, south of runway head 22, close to North Killingholme village. A second T2 was on the south-west side of the airfield, between runway heads 04 and 33. A B1 hangar was erected later for the Ministry of Aircraft Production contractor engineer's use. Bomb stores were close to Skitter Beck between runway heads 15 and 09. The camp was to the east, between the village and that of Bass Garth, and consisted of single mess, communal, WAAF sites, six domestic and sick quarters, all dispersed in farmland. Allocated for No. 1 Group use, the airfield with was occupied by No. 550 Squadron, which, six weeks after its formation, transferred from Grimsby early in January 1944. No. 550 was to be the only squadron associated North Killingholme, the stations mud and mists being its home until the squadron was disbanded at the end of October 1945. During 14 months of operations from this station, No. 550 flew some 190 raids with 58 Lancaster's failing to return and another four destroyed in crashes. No further use was made of this airfield by the RAF although it remained in a reasonably complete state for the next 30 years. The hangars and many of the buildings were taken over for light industry and storage, mostly associated with the nearby port of Immingham. Runways provide container parks and also support poultry houses. Monday 25 July 2005: Built to Class A standard in August 1942. The three runways were 04-22 at 2,000 yards and 09-27 and 15-33 both at 1,400 yards. The 36 hardstandings were all loop type. A T2 hangar stood by the technical site, south of runway head 22, close to North Killingholme village. A second T2 was on the south-west side of the airfield, between runway heads 04 and 33. A B1 hangar was erected later for the Ministry of Aircraft Production contractor engineer's use. Bomb stores were close to Skitter Beck between runway heads 15 and 09. The camp was to the east, between the village and that of Bass Garth, and consisted of single mess, communal, WAAF sites, six domestic and sick quarters, all dispersed in farmland. Allocated for No. 1 Group use, the airfield with was occupied by No. 550 Squadron, which, six weeks after its formation, transferred from Grimsby early in January 1944. No. 550 was to be the only squadron associated North Killingholme, the stations mud and mists being its home until the squadron was disbanded at the end of October 1945. During 14 months of operations from this station, No. 550 flew some 190 raids with 58 Lancaster's failing to return and another four destroyed in crashes. No further use was made of this airfield by the RAF although it remained in a reasonably complete state for the next 30 years. The hangars and many of the buildings were taken over for light industry and storage, mostly associated with the nearby port of Immingham. Runways provide container parks and also support poultry houses.

T2 At the South of the site Memorial to 550 Sqn Technical site buildings Technical site buildings Technical site buildings Technical site buildings Technical site buildings B1 MAP Hangar to the North of the site T2 situated on the East of the airfield View looking South across the airfield Buildings lining the former runways Buildings lining the former runways B1 MAP Hangar to the North of the site Viw across the site from the NW corner

Published in Lincolnshire Airfields - Past & Present

]]> Mon Jul 25 2005 Lincolnshire - RAF Stenigot http://lincolnshireairfields.fotopic.net/c629277.html RAF Stenigot was a Chain Home High station during the WW II and later as a NATO ACE HIGH station. As part of the Chain Home network it helped provide early warning of Luftwaffe raids on the approaches to Sheffield and Nottingham and the Midlands. It also had a Lincolnshire Chain Home Low counterpart at Ingoldmels. The surviving Chain Home High transmitter mast view is used by the Aerial Erector School from RAF Digby for 'climbing aptitude at height 'tests. The site still includes the bases of the three other masts, sub-surface transmitter and receiver buildings, a guardhouse, water tower and pill boxes. Monday 25 July 2005: RAF Stenigot was a Chain Home High station during the WW II and later as a NATO ACE HIGH station. As part of the Chain Home network it helped provide early warning of Luftwaffe raids on the approaches to Sheffield and Nottingham and the Midlands. It also had a Lincolnshire Chain Home Low counterpart at Ingoldmels. The surviving Chain Home High transmitter mast view is used by the Aerial Erector School from RAF Digby for 'climbing aptitude at height 'tests. The site still includes the bases of the three other masts, sub-surface transmitter and receiver buildings, a guardhouse, water tower and pill boxes.

Published in Lincolnshire Airfields - Past & Present

]]> Mon Jul 25 2005 Lincolnshire - RAF Goxhill (USAAF) http://lincolnshireairfields.fotopic.net/c629231.html RAF Goxhill opened as a balloon barrage station to protect the Port of Hull and the River Humber. It was handed to United States forces in order to receive new Fighter Group personnel from USA for training. 78th Fighter Group arrived on 1 Dec 1942, although American units had already been using Goxhill for training since Aug 1942. Operations began with the arrival of the first P-38G aircraft. RAF Goxhill was known to the USAAF as 8th Air Force Station No F-345. The station was unofficially known amongst US units based here as "GoatHill". Fighter Command took over again in Jan 1945 and flying ceased in May 1945. 233 MU Bomb Storage, RAF Maintenance Command took over the site until December 1953. The airfield was sold off in Jan 1962. Monday 25 July 2005: RAF Goxhill opened as a balloon barrage station to protect the Port of Hull and the River Humber. It was handed to United States forces in order to receive new Fighter Group personnel from USA for training. 78th Fighter Group arrived on 1 Dec 1942, although American units had already been using Goxhill for training since Aug 1942. Operations began with the arrival of the first P-38G aircraft. RAF Goxhill was known to the USAAF as 8th Air Force Station No F-345. The station was unofficially known amongst US units based here as "GoatHill". Fighter Command took over again in Jan 1945 and flying ceased in May 1945. 233 MU Bomb Storage, RAF Maintenance Command took over the site until December 1953. The airfield was sold off in Jan 1962.

GoatHill was the American name for Goxhill T2 Type Hangar J-Type Hangar The pile of rubble is the remains of the tower with the ambulance and fire sheds behind.

Published in Lincolnshire Airfields - Past & Present

]]> Mon Jul 25 2005 Lincolnshire - RAF Metheringham http://lincolnshireairfields.fotopic.net/c525723.html A class 'A' standard airfield built 1942-43. Largely in the parish of Martin it bordered the Lincolnshire fens. The runways were to the standard specification with the main 02-20 at 2,000 yards and the others, 13-31 and 07-25, at 1,400 yards length. Being to the later Class A specification, 34 of the hardstandings were loop type and only two pans. One of the standard T2 hangars was placed on the technical site, which was alongside the B1189 near Linwood Grange, between runway heads 02 and 07, and the other off the east perimeter track between runway heads 25 and 31. A B1 hangar lay north of runway head 13 near Barff Farm. The bomb store was situated around Blackthorn Holt and other woodland between runway heads 13 and 20. The camp sites were built directly south around the B1189 and consisted of one mess, one communal, one WAAF, four domestic and a sick quarters. Accommodation was given as for 1,685 males and 345 females. By the end of hostilities No. 106 Squadron had lost 65 Lancasters in operations flown from the airfield. After VE-Day, No. 467, an RAAF squadron, arrived with Lancasters to train with No. 106 for operations in the Far East but the end of the war made this plan redundant and No. 467 was disbanded at the end of September 1945. No. 189 Squadron took its place but this too was soon stood down. No. 106 Squadron endured until February 1946 when it met the same fate and Metheringham was closed to flying soon after. Although remaining in a fairly complete state until the early `fifties, the hangars and most domestic site buildings had been demolished by the end of the next decade. Sold in 1961-62 and returned to agriculture, some of the concrete was removed and parts of runways 07-25 and 13-31 were used to reinstate two small roads closed during the construction of the airfield. Several technical site buildings remain in use for commercial purposes and the former ration store is now a museum devoted to Bomber Command's wartime tenure. Tuesday 3 May 2005: A class 'A' standard airfield built 1942-43. Largely in the parish of Martin it bordered the Lincolnshire fens. The runways were to the standard specification with the main 02-20 at 2,000 yards and the others, 13-31 and 07-25, at 1,400 yards length. Being to the later Class A specification, 34 of the hardstandings were loop type and only two pans. One of the standard T2 hangars was placed on the technical site, which was alongside the B1189 near Linwood Grange, between runway heads 02 and 07, and the other off the east perimeter track between runway heads 25 and 31. A B1 hangar lay north of runway head 13 near Barff Farm. The bomb store was situated around Blackthorn Holt and other woodland between runway heads 13 and 20. The camp sites were built directly south around the B1189 and consisted of one mess, one communal, one WAAF, four domestic and a sick quarters. Accommodation was given as for 1,685 males and 345 females. By the end of hostilities No. 106 Squadron had lost 65 Lancasters in operations flown from the airfield. After VE-Day, No. 467, an RAAF squadron, arrived with Lancasters to train with No. 106 for operations in the Far East but the end of the war made this plan redundant and No. 467 was disbanded at the end of September 1945. No. 189 Squadron took its place but this too was soon stood down. No. 106 Squadron endured until February 1946 when it met the same fate and Metheringham was closed to flying soon after. Although remaining in a fairly complete state until the early `fifties, the hangars and most domestic site buildings had been demolished by the end of the next decade. Sold in 1961-62 and returned to agriculture, some of the concrete was removed and parts of runways 07-25 and 13-31 were used to reinstate two small roads closed during the construction of the airfield. Several technical site buildings remain in use for commercial purposes and the former ration store is now a museum devoted to Bomber Command's wartime tenure.

Remains of the control tower Remains of the control tower Runway 07/25, now a public road, looking towards the NE. The treeline follows the path of 13/31 Remains of the control tower Runway 13/31 looking towards the SE from the intersection with 07/25 A friendly reminder from the landowners! Runway 07/25, now a public road, looking towards the NE North Kesteven airfield trail sign near runway 25 threshold Peri-track near 25 threshold, looking towards communal site at Westmoor Farm 106 Sqn memorial on eastern perimeter Airfield plaque on memorial 106 Sqn plaque on memorial Remaining building at SE corner of airfield Water tower at Westmoor Farm communal site Admin site to west of airfield North Kesteven airfield trail sign at West of airfield site Buildings on former technical site Buildings on former technical site Blast shelter on former technical site Dinghy store on former technical site Memorial outside visitor centre Visitor Centre housed in former ration store Bldg 174 Gymnasium 14604/40 Lancaster flypast 01/05/05 Lancaster flypast 01/05/05 Lancaster flypast 01/05/05 Bldg 149 Sick Quarters east wing Bldg 149 Sick Quarters west wing Bldg 147 Picket post 12404/41 on 3 (Sick Quarters) Site Bldg 195 Picket post 12404/41 on 2 (admin) Site Jet Provost undergoing restoration on the site of Squash courts Bldg 181 Bldg 182 Picket post 12404/41 on 4 (Communal) Site Blast Shelter Air raid shelter Stand by power set bldg 170 Remains of Airmans dining hall bldg 169 Remains of Airmans dining hall bldg 169 Air raid shelter entrance Sergeants Mess Bldg 163 Foundations of Bldgs 164 & 166, Ablutions and Showers Bldg 167 Fuel Compound Road leading from 4 Site to 5 & 6 (Quarters) Site Bldg 162 Water Tower 80,000Gal Rear of bldg 163 Sgts Mess Access road on Site 4 (Communal) Site 3 (Sick Quarters) Site 2 (Admin & Ops) Road to 4 Site Entrance to Site 7 (Quarters) Site 7 is now completely demolished

Published in Lincolnshire Airfields - Past & Present

]]> Tue May 3 2005 Nottinghamshire - RAF Langar http://lincolnshireairfields.fotopic.net/c490818.html Built to Class A standard, the runways were the main O1-19 at 2,000 yards, 07-25, at 1,400 yards and 13-31 also at 1,400 yards. There were 36 pan dispersals and two T2 hangars. Domestic sites, were dispersed in farmland to the north-west around Langar village with the bomb stores located on the east side of the airfield. A large hangar workshop complex was built on the west side of the Langar-Harby road and an Avro unit for major repair and modification of Lancasters came into operation when the airfield opened in September 1942 until the airfield closed in December 1946. After five years of neglect, Langar was selected as the Canadian contribution to NATO and extensive construction work took place to provided better accommodation and other facilities. The RCAF made Langar their primary supply base in Europe, remaining at Langar for some 11 years and a variety of air transports visited during that period. When the Canadians departed in 1963, Avro was again using the airfield for flying before the company left in 1968. Today, the airfield remains in reasonable order and is used by the British Parachute School. Light aircraft and a gliding club also use Langar on a regular basis. Saturday 2 April 2005: Built to Class A standard, the runways were the main O1-19 at 2,000 yards, 07-25, at 1,400 yards and 13-31 also at 1,400 yards. There were 36 pan dispersals and two T2 hangars. Domestic sites, were dispersed in farmland to the north-west around Langar village with the bomb stores located on the east side of the airfield. A large hangar workshop complex was built on the west side of the Langar-Harby road and an Avro unit for major repair and modification of Lancasters came into operation when the airfield opened in September 1942 until the airfield closed in December 1946. After five years of neglect, Langar was selected as the Canadian contribution to NATO and extensive construction work took place to provided better accommodation and other facilities. The RCAF made Langar their primary supply base in Europe, remaining at Langar for some 11 years and a variety of air transports visited during that period. When the Canadians departed in 1963, Avro was again using the airfield for flying before the company left in 1968. Today, the airfield remains in reasonable order and is used by the British Parachute School. Light aircraft and a gliding club also use Langar on a regular basis.

Published in Lincolnshire Airfields - Past & Present

]]> Sat Apr 2 2005 Nottinghamshire - RAF Bottesford http://lincolnshireairfields.fotopic.net/c490791.html Text to follow Saturday 2 April 2005: Text to follow

Looking East along 08-26, used to store new vehicles One of the 2 original T2 Hangars Looking east across 01-19 and 14-32 with peri-track in foreground T2 Hangars on the former technical site B1 MAP Hangar to west of the airfield One of several T2's on the technical site Control tower in use as company offices Pill box located south of the airfield in Normanton

Published in Lincolnshire Airfields - Past & Present

]]> Sat Apr 2 2005 Hertfordshire - DH Aircraft Heritage Centre http://lincolnshireairfields.fotopic.net/c479929.html In September 1939 the de Havilland Aircraft Company established the Mosquito design team in Salisbury Hall, London Colney, Hertfordshire, the Prototype Mosquito, E0234/W4050, subsequently being built in the adjacent buildings. De Havillands left in 1947 and the Hall slipped into a derelict condition. However, in 1955 the Hall was taken in hand by an ex Royal Marine Major named Walter Goldsmith who restored it and opened it up to the public. He brought back the prototype Mosquito, E0234/W4050, as one of the attractions in 1959, an action which led to the establishment of the Mosquito Aircraft Museum. Saturday 19 March 2005: In September 1939 the de Havilland Aircraft Company established the Mosquito design team in Salisbury Hall, London Colney, Hertfordshire, the Prototype Mosquito, E0234/W4050, subsequently being built in the adjacent buildings. De Havillands left in 1947 and the Hall slipped into a derelict condition. However, in 1955 the Hall was taken in hand by an ex Royal Marine Major named Walter Goldsmith who restored it and opened it up to the public. He brought back the prototype Mosquito, E0234/W4050, as one of the attractions in 1959, an action which led to the establishment of the Mosquito Aircraft Museum.

XJ565 DH110 Sea Vixen FAW.2 XJ565 DH110 Sea Vixen FAW.2 D-IFSB DH104 Dove 6 G-ARYC DH.125 Srs 1 WX853 DH112 Venom NF.3 G-AOTI DH114 Heron 2D TA122 DH98 Mosquito FB6 XJ772 DH115 Vampire T.11 TA634 DH98 Mosquito TT.35 DH106 Comet 2 SIM G-AREA DH104 Dove 8

Published in Lincolnshire Airfields - Past & Present

]]> Sat Mar 19 2005 Bedfordshire - RAF Lt Staughton http://lincolnshireairfields.fotopic.net/c479606.html 8 miles North of Bedford, Little Staughton was built in 1941/42 as a class 'A' Bomber airfield. With 3 concrete runways and eventually 54 hardstandings, it also had 3 x T2 Hangars and 8 Robin Hangars dispersed around the airfield. The dispersed camp lay to the east of the airfield and had accomodation for 2496 males and 126 females. The airfield was allocated to the USAAF and used as an advanced air depot before being deemed unsuitable and being returned to the RAF in 1944. 582 Sqn Lancasters and 109 Sqn Mosquitos of the Pathfinder force were the only RAF wartime occupants of Little Staughton, losing 57 aircraft between them in offensive operations. The airfield was then mothballed under care and maintenance until being turned over to the USAF in the 1950's. The main runway length was extended to 3000 yds in preparation for possible jet aircraft use but this was never to be and the Americans departed in the late 50's The airfield is still in civil use today, and the technical site is used as an industrial park known as Staughton Moor. Access is strictly controlled. On the day of my visit the site was secured for public holidays, hence the long range photo shots Sunday 27 March 2005: 8 miles North of Bedford, Little Staughton was built in 1941/42 as a class 'A' Bomber airfield. With 3 concrete runways and eventually 54 hardstandings, it also had 3 x T2 Hangars and 8 Robin Hangars dispersed around the airfield. The dispersed camp lay to the east of the airfield and had accomodation for 2496 males and 126 females. The airfield was allocated to the USAAF and used as an advanced air depot before being deemed unsuitable and being returned to the RAF in 1944. 582 Sqn Lancasters and 109 Sqn Mosquitos of the Pathfinder force were the only RAF wartime occupants of Little Staughton, losing 57 aircraft between them in offensive operations. The airfield was then mothballed under care and maintenance until being turned over to the USAF in the 1950's. The main runway length was extended to 3000 yds in preparation for possible jet aircraft use but this was never to be and the Americans departed in the late 50's The airfield is still in civil use today, and the technical site is used as an industrial park known as Staughton Moor. Access is strictly controlled. On the day of my visit the site was secured for public holidays, hence the long range photo shots

Original re-clad Hangar? Original re-clad Hangar? Re-clad T2 on technical site Tech site buildings Watch Office for Bomber Stations and OTU's 13726/41 Buildings on technical site Dispersal looking back towards peri-track No3 Communal Site to east of airfield Southern most T2 Hangar Memorial to 109 & 582 Sqns

Published in Lincolnshire Airfields - Past & Present

]]> Sun Mar 27 2005 Bedfordshire - RAF Cardington http://lincolnshireairfields.fotopic.net/c479459.html Bedfordshire - RAF Cardington Sunday 27 March 2005: Bedfordshire - RAF Cardington

1 & 2 Airship sheds viewed from the South Close up of Sheds, caravan in centre provides scale! HQ Building from the North Yarnold Sangar, relocated for resident ATC Sqn Building 14, Serviceable stores storage & Main gate HQ Building from South POL point Airship sheds viewed from A600 During the early 90's Cardington was to get a new entrance, however events overtook its construction Soon to be demolished MT workshop buildings Last remaining sign HQ building from front Close up of HQ building

Published in Lincolnshire Airfields - Past & Present

]]> Sun Mar 27 2005 Nottinghamshire - RAF Wigsley http://lincolnshireairfields.fotopic.net/c452850.html Nottinghamshire - RAF Wigsley Saturday 5 March 2005: Nottinghamshire - RAF Wigsley

Communal site on private land Communal site on private land Unknown building near northern perimeter Peri track looking NE near Runway 27 head Peritrack looking West Derelict control tower Derelict control tower Line of Runway 32/14 looking NW Long abandoned buildings along Southern perimeter Engine cowl from a Shorts Stirling based at RAF Wigley Engine cowl from a Shorts Stirling based at RAF Wigley

Published in Lincolnshire Airfields - Past & Present

]]> Sat Mar 5 2005 Lincolnshire - RAF Hemswell http://lincolnshireairfields.fotopic.net/c452808.html Lincolnshire - RAF Hemswell Saturday 5 March 2005: Lincolnshire - RAF Hemswell

Sign remembering Hemswell's recent history. Memorial to 170 Sqn Guard room Station Headquarters building (SHQ) Memorial to RAF Hemswell's Bomber crews Airman's Institute (Airmans mess and Junior Ranks Club) Water Tower Sattion Armoury (AEF) Medical Centre (SMC) Modified Control Tower T2 Hangar Looking West along the subsiduary runway 10-28 Thor installation building C type Hangar Looking north along the line of the main runway 17-35 View of all 4 'C' type Hangars Remains of camoflage on the eastern wing of the Sgt's Mess

Published in Lincolnshire Airfields - Past & Present

]]> Sat Mar 5 2005 Lincolnshire - RAF Spilsby http://lincolnshireairfields.fotopic.net/c451756.html Lincolnshire - RAF Spilsby Saturday 19 February 2005: Lincolnshire - RAF Spilsby

Road following the line of the peri-track looking East adjacent to 11-29 Remaining B1 Hanger remaining peri-track looking west, towards 11 end of 11-29 Memorial to 207 Sqn Memorial to 207 Sqn Spilsby map and history Spilsby orientation map Ops Block? Communal site buildings Buildings near Sandhill Farm

Published in Lincolnshire Airfields - Past & Present

]]> Sat Feb 19 2005 Lincolnshire - RAF East Kirkby http://lincolnshireairfields.fotopic.net/c451743.html Opening in 1943 East Kirkby housed 630 Sqn, formed here from B Flt of 57 Sqn in Nov 1943 and flew the last operational sortie from the station, on 25 Apr 1945. The station went into care and maintenance the following month. In 1954 RAF East Kirkby reopened to serve both RAF and USAF units staging operations in the Far East from here. USAF Dakotas of 3917 Air Base Sqn of 7 Strategic Air Command Air Division were based here until closure in 1958. Saturday 19 February 2005: Opening in 1943 East Kirkby housed 630 Sqn, formed here from B Flt of 57 Sqn in Nov 1943 and flew the last operational sortie from the station, on 25 Apr 1945. The station went into care and maintenance the following month. In 1954 RAF East Kirkby reopened to serve both RAF and USAF units staging operations in the Far East from here. USAF Dakotas of 3917 Air Base Sqn of 7 Strategic Air Command Air Division were based here until closure in 1958.

Access track looking East, leading to 08 end of 08/26 Original WWII Eastern peritrack, looking North at the point where original 08/26 ends, and USAF runway extends for a further 1,266 yds Southern peritrack to the 26 runway extension Looking East along the extension to the 26 end of 08/26 Looking East along the extension to the 26 end of 08/26 Looking West along the original line of 08/26 Northern peritrack to the 26 runway extension Northern peritrack to 08/26 runway looking west Lancaster NX611 'Just Jane' Merlin maintenance Lancaster NX611 'Just Jane' Two seat Spitfire MJ627 Lancaster NX611 'Just Jane' Original restored control tower Crash tender shed next to control tower Active runway board in control tower Meridian memorial Memorial to 57 and 630 Sqn's Memorial to 57 and 630 Sqn's

Published in Lincolnshire Airfields - Past & Present

]]> Sat Feb 19 2005 Lincolnshire - RAF Woodhall Spa http://lincolnshireairfields.fotopic.net/c443392.html Lincolnshire - RAF Woodhall Spa Saturday 19 February 2005: Lincolnshire - RAF Woodhall Spa

Published in Lincolnshire Airfields - Past & Present

]]> Sat Feb 19 2005 Lincolnshire - RAF Strubby http://lincolnshireairfields.fotopic.net/c443376.html The most easterly of all Lincolnshire's airfields, it was already surplus to Bomber Command requirements when it opened in April 1944. It was transferred to Coastal Command until a reorganisation of airfields took place and Bomber Command took over Strubby. In September 619 Squadron moved in with its Lancasters from Dunholme and began bomber operations. In October, 227 Squadron was formed at Strubby. Less than a year later both squadrons moved out and Strubby was used to prepare units for operations in the Pacific. When Japan surrendered control of Strubby passed to the RAF Flying College at Manby and it was to be used in this role until the station closed in 1972. Today it is a very good surviving example of what a bomber command airfield would have looked like during WWII, most of the buildings are being used by businesses and are still in a good condition, including the two re-clad T2 Hangars. Gliders and go-carts now use part of the runway. Saturday 19 February 2005: The most easterly of all Lincolnshire's airfields, it was already surplus to Bomber Command requirements when it opened in April 1944. It was transferred to Coastal Command until a reorganisation of airfields took place and Bomber Command took over Strubby. In September 619 Squadron moved in with its Lancasters from Dunholme and began bomber operations. In October, 227 Squadron was formed at Strubby. Less than a year later both squadrons moved out and Strubby was used to prepare units for operations in the Pacific. When Japan surrendered control of Strubby passed to the RAF Flying College at Manby and it was to be used in this role until the station closed in 1972. Today it is a very good surviving example of what a bomber command airfield would have looked like during WWII, most of the buildings are being used by businesses and are still in a good condition, including the two re-clad T2 Hangars. Gliders and go-carts now use part of the runway.

B1 Hangar off the Eastern Perimeter Entrance to RAF Strubby Guard Room Technical Site Derelict Control Tower Remains of 09/27 Runway looking East Parachute store on Tech Site Electrical Distribution building?

Published in Lincolnshire Airfields - Past & Present

]]> Sat Feb 19 2005 Lincolnshire - RAF Manby http://lincolnshireairfields.fotopic.net/c438204.html Lincolnshire - RAF Manby Saturday 19 February 2005: Lincolnshire - RAF Manby

Station Headquarters (SHQ) Medical Centre Ambulance shed Officers Mess Main Guard Room (MGR) 'C' Hangar in commercial use 'C' Hangar (Hangar 2) Control Tower (on private land)

Published in Lincolnshire Airfields - Past & Present

]]> Sat Feb 19 2005 Lincolnshire - RAF Dunholme Lodge http://lincolnshireairfields.fotopic.net/c438189.html RAF Dunholme Lodge started military life as a grass field used by aircraft from RAF Scampton during 1941 and 1942. It was then given official recognition as a station in Sep 1942 and built up to a full station by May 1943. Flight operations ceased after 30 Nov 1944 as the airfield was too close to other stations to permit night flying. It was instead used to store Hamilcar gliders until the end of the war. Saturday 19 February 2005: RAF Dunholme Lodge started military life as a grass field used by aircraft from RAF Scampton during 1941 and 1942. It was then given official recognition as a station in Sep 1942 and built up to a full station by May 1943. Flight operations ceased after 30 Nov 1944 as the airfield was too close to other stations to permit night flying. It was instead used to store Hamilcar gliders until the end of the war.

Remaining building on Dunholme Lodge Farm Remaining section of runway 34/16 looking South Remains of W/E runway 10/28 looking East Line of W/E runway 10/28 looking West towards 10 end Rifle range butts

Published in Lincolnshire Airfields - Past & Present

]]> Sat Feb 19 2005 Lincolnshire - RAF(H) Nocton Hall http://lincolnshireairfields.fotopic.net/c435686.html Ok, not an airfield, but an integeral part of the RAF (and later USAF) in Lincolnshire. Nocton Hall was a hospital for the United States Army during the Second World War. It was then used as part of the 740-bed RAF hospital from the 1940s until 1984. Between then and 1995 it was leased to the United States Airforce as a wartime contingency hospital. During the Gulf War, more than 1,300 US medical staff were sent to the hall and many were billeted at RAF Scampton. Only 35 casualties had to be treated. RAF Nocton Hall was handed back to the British Government in September 1995. It was then bought by a private owner who turned the hall into a residential home. On the 24th of October 2004 the Hall was set ablaze by arsonists. At its height, about 70 firefighters attended the blaze at Nocton Hall, which started just before midnight. The fire took several hours to get under control, but the roof collapsed and the building was severely damaged. Tuesday 15 February 2005: Ok, not an airfield, but an integeral part of the RAF (and later USAF) in Lincolnshire. Nocton Hall was a hospital for the United States Army during the Second World War. It was then used as part of the 740-bed RAF hospital from the 1940s until 1984. Between then and 1995 it was leased to the United States Airforce as a wartime contingency hospital. During the Gulf War, more than 1,300 US medical staff were sent to the hall and many were billeted at RAF Scampton. Only 35 casualties had to be treated. RAF Nocton Hall was handed back to the British Government in September 1995. It was then bought by a private owner who turned the hall into a residential home. On the 24th of October 2004 the Hall was set ablaze by arsonists. At its height, about 70 firefighters attended the blaze at Nocton Hall, which started just before midnight. The fire took several hours to get under control, but the roof collapsed and the building was severely damaged.

Published in Lincolnshire Airfields - Past & Present

]]> Tue Feb 15 2005 Lincolnshire - RAF Binbrook http://lincolnshireairfields.fotopic.net/c435362.html One of the last batch of pre-war expansion scheme airfields, construction did not begin until the spring of 1938 and was not completed until late 1940. The usual arrangement of the later Type C hangars, five in number, facing the bombing circle was backed by the administration, technical and barrack sites in close proximity. During 1940 and 1941 a number of pan-shape aircraft hard standings were put down round the airfield. At the end of 1959 Binbrook was put on care and maintenance status. The airfield then held appeal for Fighter Command which called for development work including the extension of the main runway by another 500 yards. Reopened for flying in June 1962 the first element of Fighter Command to take up station. The Lightning squadrons remained until May 1988 - the last in RAF service. The larger part of the airfield was put up for sale late in 1989, although the hangars were retained for military storage until 1998 when they too were sold. Tuesday 15 February 2005: One of the last batch of pre-war expansion scheme airfields, construction did not begin until the spring of 1938 and was not completed until late 1940. The usual arrangement of the later Type C hangars, five in number, facing the bombing circle was backed by the administration, technical and barrack sites in close proximity. During 1940 and 1941 a number of pan-shape aircraft hard standings were put down round the airfield. At the end of 1959 Binbrook was put on care and maintenance status. The airfield then held appeal for Fighter Command which called for development work including the extension of the main runway by another 500 yards. Reopened for flying in June 1962 the first element of Fighter Command to take up station. The Lightning squadrons remained until May 1988 - the last in RAF service. The larger part of the airfield was put up for sale late in 1989, although the hangars were retained for military storage until 1998 when they too were sold.

Most southerly 'C' type hangars, looking across from the B1203 'Q' Sheds ? at SW corner of the airfield Supply Sqn HQ Building Airmans Barrack block Station Headquarters (SHQ) Medical and Dental centre Station Workshops & General Engineering Flight (SWS & GEF) Mechanical Transport Operations Flight (MT Section) MT Servicing Section (MTSS) Station Bolier House Water tower C type 'Austerity' Hangar Main Guard Room (MGR) 5 Sqn badge 'Waterfront' Dispersal Pan Memorial on Stn Ident square Memorial to commemerate the end of Lightning Era at local school Memorial to 460 Sqn RAAF in Village Officers mess accomodation looking from the B1203 Welcome to Binbrook Derelict Officers Mess Frontage Nissen Huts

Published in Lincolnshire Airfields - Past & Present

]]> Tue Feb 15 2005 Lincolnshire - RAF Kelstern http://lincolnshireairfields.fotopic.net/c434257.html Lincolnshire - RAF Kelstern Tuesday 15 February 2005: Lincolnshire - RAF Kelstern

Remains of Runway 24-06 looking West Remains of dispersals at OS TF267918 Southern peri-track looking east Remains of peri-track looking south west Former technical site buildings at Julians Barn Farm Runway 19-01 looking South Runway 01-19 looking North at OS TF261918 Runway 06-24 looking North-east at TF258920 Unidentified building at North of the site Memorial to 625 Sqn Memorial to 625 Sqn Standby power set building Standby power set building Tech site building

Published in Lincolnshire Airfields - Past & Present

]]> Tue Feb 15 2005 Lincolnshire - RAF Ludford Magna http://lincolnshireairfields.fotopic.net/c433690.html Ludford Magna opened in the summer of 1943. At a height of 428ft above sea level, it was the highest bomber airfield in England. The site occupied a sloping area leading to the main runway being constructed north-south instead of the more convention north east-south west. Ludford Magna was home to 101 squadron, flying Lancasters from the airfield until October 1945. 101 Squadron was Bomber Command's first electronic counter-measures squadron. Many of its aircraft flying with an extra crew member whose job it was to use transmitters on the aircraft to jam German night fighter radio frequencies. In 1944 Ludford was equipped with FIDO fog dispersal equipment. After the war Ludford was used as a Thor missile site before being returned to agriculture. Today a few scattered buildings and parts of the runway remains. Further information from:- http://raf-lincolnshire.info/ Tuesday 15 February 2005: Ludford Magna opened in the summer of 1943. At a height of 428ft above sea level, it was the highest bomber airfield in England. The site occupied a sloping area leading to the main runway being constructed north-south instead of the more convention north east-south west. Ludford Magna was home to 101 squadron, flying Lancasters from the airfield until October 1945. 101 Squadron was Bomber Command's first electronic counter-measures squadron. Many of its aircraft flying with an extra crew member whose job it was to use transmitters on the aircraft to jam German night fighter radio frequencies. In 1944 Ludford was equipped with FIDO fog dispersal equipment. After the war Ludford was used as a Thor missile site before being returned to agriculture. Today a few scattered buildings and parts of the runway remains. Further information from:- http://raf-lincolnshire.info/

Access road at OS TF 205886 Access road at OS TA209878 Peri-track at OS TF201872 Thor site at OS TF200878 Thor site at OS TF202878 Line of a runway at OS TF204877 looking East Buildings in use at OS TF194889 Memorial at OS TF201892 Memorial benches at OS TF201892 Memorial benches at OS TF201892 Nissen Hut at OS TF192897 Buildings at OS TF191891 Domestic site at OS TF193896 Building in use at OS TF194893

Published in Lincolnshire Airfields - Past & Present

]]> Tue Feb 15 2005 Lincolnshire - RAF Grimsby (Waltham) http://lincolnshireairfields.fotopic.net/c433498.html RAF Waltham, also known as RAF Grimsby, was brought into RAF service in Nov 1941 as a satellite to RAF Binbrook. Later in 1943 it became No 12 Base substation. RAF Waltham and 100 Sqn are commemorated in a memorial stone on the A16 next to the site of the base. There is a commemorative plaque at the Cheapside entrance to the RAF Grimsby site. "RAF Grimsby (Waltham) 1941-1945. To fight for our freedom and to end the Nazi tyranny, young people from all over the world came to this airfield to serve and to fly the Wellingtons and Lancasters of 142 and 100 Squadrons. Over 1000 brave young men came through this entrance - never to return. Many more were shot down and captured. We will remember them and salute all who served here." Tuesday 15 February 2005: RAF Waltham, also known as RAF Grimsby, was brought into RAF service in Nov 1941 as a satellite to RAF Binbrook. Later in 1943 it became No 12 Base substation. RAF Waltham and 100 Sqn are commemorated in a memorial stone on the A16 next to the site of the base. There is a commemorative plaque at the Cheapside entrance to the RAF Grimsby site. "RAF Grimsby (Waltham) 1941-1945. To fight for our freedom and to end the Nazi tyranny, young people from all over the world came to this airfield to serve and to fly the Wellingtons and Lancasters of 142 and 100 Squadrons. Over 1000 brave young men came through this entrance - never to return. Many more were shot down and captured. We will remember them and salute all who served here."

Sign at the former entrance Sign at the former entrance T2 Hanger on western side of the airfield MAP B1 Hanger on Eastern side of airfield

Published in Lincolnshire Airfields - Past & Present

]]> Tue Feb 15 2005 Lincolnshire - RAF Bardney http://lincolnshireairfields.fotopic.net/c426776.html Lincolnshire - RAF Bardney Friday 24 December 2004: Lincolnshire - RAF Bardney

A Runway looking towards the south Peri-track at North end of the site Memorial in Bardney Village Buildings on the airfield from the Thor era Derelict building near northern access road on corner of Austacre Wood Bunker at OS TF165717 east of the airfield Forest road to a communal site Communal site south of airfield Another privatly owned hanger Another domestic site in Newpark Woods Most westerly of the Hangars Old building in use as a workshop

Published in Lincolnshire Airfields - Past & Present

]]> Fri Dec 24 2004 Lincolnshire - RFC Anwick http://lincolnshireairfields.fotopic.net/c426769.html Former RFC Anwick was reactivated during WWII as a decoy site for nearby Digby, but was not used operationally. Today the area is marked as part of the North Kesteven Airfield trail, however nothing remains of the original site. An active private strip is situated at a nearby farm, quite close to the original aerodrome. Wednesday 22 December 2004: Former RFC Anwick was reactivated during WWII as a decoy site for nearby Digby, but was not used operationally. Today the area is marked as part of the North Kesteven Airfield trail, however nothing remains of the original site. An active private strip is situated at a nearby farm, quite close to the original aerodrome.

North Kesteven aviation trail sign Sign at current airstrip Current private airstrip

Published in Lincolnshire Airfields - Past & Present

]]> Wed Dec 22 2004 Germany - RAF Bruggen http://lincolnshireairfields.fotopic.net/c422885.html RAF Bruggen was one of the RAF's German 'clutch' Stations along with Wildenrath, Laarbruch, Geilenkirchen, Rheindhalen and RAF(H) Wegburg. An additional station was used until 1996, the former Luftwaffe airfield of Gutersloh. The clutch stations were constructed in the 1950s and boasted the most modern facilities available in the RAF. With the end of the cold war, their purpose was over and they started to close in 1992. Bruggen was the last to close, 17 Sqn disbanding in 1999 followed by 14, 9 and 31 Sqns. 37 Sqn RAF Regiment was the last operational RAF Sqn to leave Germany in October 2001 and Bruggen finally closed in 2002, being handed over to the British Army as 'Javelin Barracks' Saturday 14 July 2001: RAF Bruggen was one of the RAF's German 'clutch' Stations along with Wildenrath, Laarbruch, Geilenkirchen, Rheindhalen and RAF(H) Wegburg. An additional station was used until 1996, the former Luftwaffe airfield of Gutersloh. The clutch stations were constructed in the 1950s and boasted the most modern facilities available in the RAF. With the end of the cold war, their purpose was over and they started to close in 1992. Bruggen was the last to close, 17 Sqn disbanding in 1999 followed by 14, 9 and 31 Sqns. 37 Sqn RAF Regiment was the last operational RAF Sqn to leave Germany in October 2001 and Bruggen finally closed in 2002, being handed over to the British Army as 'Javelin Barracks'

Notice on IX Sqn gates SHQ Entrance Sign at VAHS Original 1950's tower Explosives storage area Jaguar Gateguard, relocated to Coltishall 'Q' HAS Site Test house for RR Spey engines Wing Operations Centre Modern Tower HAS 28 Railway line end near 31 Sqn site 9 Sqn engine detuner 9 Sqn NBC COLPRO

Published in Lincolnshire Airfields - Past & Present

]]> Sat Jul 14 2001 Lincolnshire - RAF Wickenby http://lincolnshireairfields.fotopic.net/c419752.html Lincolnshire - RAF Wickenby Friday 24 December 2004: Lincolnshire - RAF Wickenby

Control Tower RAF Wickenby memorial 12 Sqn Crest 626 Sqn Crest Much shortened NW/SE subsiduary runway seen from the road which bisects the former airfield Much shorthened NE/SW subsiduary runway from the road which bisects the former bomber command airfield Rifle Range looking from south Western threshold of former E/W main runway Reclad B1 Hangar Small Arms Rifle butts original control Tower from Airside Reclad and lengthened T2 Hangar Modern resident of Wickenby Former workshops building Derelict mess hall

Published in Lincolnshire Airfields - Past & Present

]]> Fri Dec 24 2004 Lincolnshire - RAF Fiskerton http://lincolnshireairfields.fotopic.net/c419748.html The former RAF Fiskerton is situated 5 miles east of the city of Lincoln. Opened in 1942 as a standard Bomber Command airfield, it's first residents were the Lancasters of 49 Sqn and later on 576 Sqn also operated from here. Fiskerton was one of a few airfields equipped with a FIDO installation allowing the airfield to remain open in foggy conditions. The airfield closed in November 1945 and most was eventually sold off in the early 1960's. A small area was retained and became a Royal Observer Corps (ROC) Base, this eventually closed in 1991. Friday 24 December 2004: The former RAF Fiskerton is situated 5 miles east of the city of Lincoln. Opened in 1942 as a standard Bomber Command airfield, it's first residents were the Lancasters of 49 Sqn and later on 576 Sqn also operated from here. Fiskerton was one of a few airfields equipped with a FIDO installation allowing the airfield to remain open in foggy conditions. The airfield closed in November 1945 and most was eventually sold off in the early 1960's. A small area was retained and became a Royal Observer Corps (ROC) Base, this eventually closed in 1991.

Memorial Stone Memorial plaque Memorial Plaque Memorial Plaque Remains of SW/NE Runway Remains of E/W (Main ?) Runway

Published in Lincolnshire Airfields - Past & Present

]]> Fri Dec 24 2004 Lincolnshire - RAF Swinderby http://lincolnshireairfields.fotopic.net/c416244.html Some pictures from the Former RAF Swinderby, which for nearly 30 years was the Airmans School of Recruit Training (SofRT). It closed in 1993 with training moving to RAF Halton in Buckinghamshire. The site was sold off in 1996 in various lots. The airfield is on occasion used as a showground, and tech site remains largely unchanged and in use as industrial units. The domestic site, including all the barrack blocks, post office, messes and medical facilities was demolished in 2003/04, with the exception of one barrack block and following extensive building on the site, it is now the village of Witham St Hughes. Saturday 5 March 2005: Some pictures from the Former RAF Swinderby, which for nearly 30 years was the Airmans School of Recruit Training (SofRT). It closed in 1993 with training moving to RAF Halton in Buckinghamshire. The site was sold off in 1996 in various lots. The airfield is on occasion used as a showground, and tech site remains largely unchanged and in use as industrial units. The domestic site, including all the barrack blocks, post office, messes and medical facilities was demolished in 2003/04, with the exception of one barrack block and following extensive building on the site, it is now the village of Witham St Hughes.

13 Flt, 3 Sqn, School of Recruit Training 15/03/1988 Drill Practice Hangers Basic Kitting Hanger Permanant Staff Barrack Block Site of the Airmans Mess Guard Room Station Entrance MoD Sign Control Tower Parade Hangar, and Arrivals / AEF hangar Respirator Test Facility Pillbox on private land Control Tower Original sign in entrance to Officers Mess MT/MTMS Yard Nissen Huts Ground Defence Training Complex Ground Fuels lock up Converted General Engineering Flight. Left wing is converted to Stn Cinema Expansion period watch tower and crash tender shed Control Tower 7378a/55 Watch Office with Met Section 5845/39 Crash tender shed Classrooms once used for General Service Knowledge (GSK) lessons No1 Hangar, J type. Last RAF use for initial processing of recruits and aircraft storage Front of Supply Squadron Derelict building WWII ops building? Station Armoury Loading Bay on Station Supply Squadron Front of General Engineering Workshops, Right side converted to Station cinema, Left side was used as C of E church Station cinema sign General Engineering Flight (GEF) Workshops

Published in Lincolnshire Airfields - Past & Present

]]> Sat Mar 5 2005 Lincolnshire - RAF Coleby Grange http://lincolnshireairfields.fotopic.net/c416216.html RAF Coleby Grange, The former Fighter Command Station at Nocton Heath, Lincolnshire which was reactivated between 1959-63 as the Thor ICBM base of 142 Sqn under the control of Hemswell. It has reverted back to farmland, however much remains, most noticable being the Control Tower, that despite being derelict, is a local landmark. Saturday 15 January 2005: RAF Coleby Grange, The former Fighter Command Station at Nocton Heath, Lincolnshire which was reactivated between 1959-63 as the Thor ICBM base of 142 Sqn under the control of Hemswell. It has reverted back to farmland, however much remains, most noticable being the Control Tower, that despite being derelict, is a local landmark.

Perimeter track bing reduced in width Section of perimeter track Breaking the perimeter track near the watch tower Watch Tower from Southern perimeter Dispersal being broken up Perimeter Track being broken up Watch Tower Remains of building next to control tower

Published in Lincolnshire Airfields - Past & Present

]]> Sat Jan 15 2005 Lincolnshire - RAF Wellingore http://lincolnshireairfields.fotopic.net/c415962.html RAF Wellingore has its origins in a naval landing site, known as Wellingore Heath. During the winter of 1939-40 a concrete peritrack and 8 hangars gave the airfield some substance. During World War II a few squadrons passed through the camp. Notable personalities include Wg Cdr Guy Gibson. 439 Sqn RCAF formed here in Jan 1944. From 29 Apr 1944 until closure in 1945 Wellingore served as a relief landing ground for nearby RAFC Cranwell. Post-war the station served as a camp for ex-prisoners of war from Germany and the Ukraine and finally reverted to farmland in the 1950s. Today the most noticable signs of the former airfield are the many pill boxes along Ermine Street to the East of the site, where there is also a memorial. Flying continues from the site at a grass strip at nearby Griffin's Farm Thursday 13 January 2005: RAF Wellingore has its origins in a naval landing site, known as Wellingore Heath. During the winter of 1939-40 a concrete peritrack and 8 hangars gave the airfield some substance. During World War II a few squadrons passed through the camp. Notable personalities include Wg Cdr Guy Gibson. 439 Sqn RCAF formed here in Jan 1944. From 29 Apr 1944 until closure in 1945 Wellingore served as a relief landing ground for nearby RAFC Cranwell. Post-war the station served as a camp for ex-prisoners of war from Germany and the Ukraine and finally reverted to farmland in the 1950s. Today the most noticable signs of the former airfield are the many pill boxes along Ermine Street to the East of the site, where there is also a memorial. Flying continues from the site at a grass strip at nearby Griffin's Farm

Pillbox at OS SK994552 Pillbox at OS SK994552 Memorial at OS SK994549 Lincolnshire Aviation Trail Sign at OS SK994549 Perimeter track at OS SK990549 Pill Box and Bunker at OS SK998551 Bunker at OS SK994547 Pillbox at OS SK993545 Pillbox at OS SK993540 Pill Box at OS SK985540 Bunker and Building Bunker

Published in Lincolnshire Airfields - Past & Present

]]> Thu Jan 13 2005