A new fun, exciting and exhilarating Gyrocopter display is coming to Wings & Wheels for the first time on Saturday 26th and Sunday 27th August. Displaying the aircraft’s capabilities, pilot Peter Davies, is all about taking his Gryocopter show up close and personal to the crowd line.

This quirky aircraft looks a little like a flying windmill or even a rotating parachute. The rotor blades of the gyro are completely free wheeling in flight, being driven solely by the air going up through the rotor disk. There is no mechanical drive to the rotors in flight, the phenomenon of autorotation drives them, once airborne the rotors just look after themselves and keep spinning, even if the airspeed indicator is showing zero. Stop the engine and the aircraft slows and descends, the air still flows through the disk and keeps it turning, even when flying sideways or even backwards.

As the rest of the aircraft is hanging from the rotor it acts like a pendulum giving the gyrocopter natural stability, the rotors (wings) are flying through the air at 350mph so turbulent unstable air and wind gusts are ‘sampled’, this make the gyroplane much more stable than most other aircraft and capable of flying in conditions others won’t.

Jamie McAllister, Event Director comments: “It’s fast, quirky and we are delighted to have the Gyrocopter displaying at this year’s Wings & Wheels. It’s the first time the aircraft has displayed at the show and we are sure it’s going to be a family favourite.”
Visitors to Wings & Wheels can also enjoy other air displays including the Red Arrows, Eurofighter Typhoon, Battle of Britain Memorial Flight (two Spitfires and Lancaster), Chinook (Saturday only), Apache Display Team with pyrotechnics, Tigers Parachute Team, Blades and much, much more.

The ‘Wings’ of the event would not be complete without a close-up inspection of all the weekend’s visiting aircraft including the Royal Navy Wildcat, RAF Puma, Apache, Dunsfold’s resident Sea Hawk, and Hunter as well as the infamous Boeing 747, the Brooklands VC10 and Aces High DC3, all open for tours.

Supercars and classic and vintage icons put on an awe-inspiring display of power and speed on the Top Gear track in a 2 hour auto spectacular. The ‘Wheels’ of the show includes displays from McLaren 12C, Lamborghini Aventador Roadster and Huracan, Pagani Zonda, Ferrari California T, Aston Martin Rapide, Dodge Monaco, TVR Tasmin 280i, Ducati Multistrada 1200s, Ferrari F355 Berlinetta, Ford GT40 and Lotus Elise.

Visit the Wheels Zone with a bigger and better crowd line parade and interactive displays from car and motorbike clubs. The Stunt Zone will be exploding into 2017 with four wheeled hair-raising performances from Mission Motorsport and the popular Monster Truck arena returns offering demonstrations and passenger rides.

The Military Zone & Parade is interactive and explosive bringing re-enactors, a living history zone, and our popular military vehicle parade. The Zone has over 80 military vehicles, re-enactment groups, as well as the history of Dunsfold Aerodrome and Army, Navy and RAF recruitment stands for everyone’s enjoyment.

Sid’s Zone is an action packed free area for the little ones. From 10:00 until 16:00 the kids can join in with colouring competitions, arts and crafts, paper plane challenges, face painting and the popular Sid’s Trail which encourages the whole family to search the arena for questions and answers to win a goody bag. Meet and greets with show mascot Siddeley and the display pilots are not to be missed.

The excitement and anticipation doesn’t stop at the main displays as the 32-acre public arena is bursting with a huge variety of interactive attractions containing all you need for a great family day out. The show arena boasts, kit-plane demonstrations, military outlets and displays, static aircraft, fairground and over 80 retail outlets selling a wide variety of products and gifts. Shopping in the arena includes a craft marquee full of craft gifts and tempting tea time treats to take home as well as a *New* Vintage Market with hair and make-up, clothes and collectables.

As the last plane touches down the party starts across the arena with musical evening entertainment from Champagne at the Blitz, a 1940s songbird trio armed with smooth harmonies, seamed nylons and lots and LOTS of red lippy!

Taking the hassle out of your day the show includes added extras to make your experience even more enjoyable; over 25 fixed-price catering outlets, two bars, hospitality facilities, free on-site parking, public camping, lost children point, disabled access, informative show commentary, opportunities to meet the pilots, official show merchandise and grandstand seating.

The 13th annual Wings & Wheels will be held over the August Bank holiday weekend; Saturday 26th & Sunday 27th August 2017, at Dunsfold Park near Guildford, Surrey, and is open to spectators from 09:00 until 21:00.

Advanced rate tickets from £22 for adults or £50 for a family. Single child tickets (for children aged 5 – 15) will be £7. Children under 5 go free. Hospitality packages start from £155 per person, weekend passes, grandstand tickets and camping are also available. For more information visit www.wingsandwheels.net or to book standard tickets call 08712 305 572.

Wings & Wheels is promoted by Dunsfold Park Limited and in 2017 will be assisting the fundraising efforts of Brooklands Museum Trust and Help for Heroes.

Date: 23 September 2017
Time: Gates open 7.00pm / film starts 8.30pm
Cost: £10 per person in advance / £15 on the gate (subject to availability)

Jumpsuits…check! Aviators…check! Pilots…engage screen!

One of the most iconic aviation movies of all time ‘Top Gun’ will be showcased on a giant inflatable screen at the Royal Air Force Museum Cosford on Saturday 23 September 2017. This 80’s cult classic military movie is the first to be shown in the Museum’s new outdoor event which will take place in the spacious grounds, against a backdrop of aircraft.

Film buffs can enjoy watching Maverick under the moonlight in what is the perfect setting for a film about flight. This evening event will see a huge 24ft inflatable screen erected alongside the VC10 and Hercules aircraft, including digital projectors and sound equipment for a true cinematic experience. No movie would be complete without popcorn and for one night only, the Museum will be transforming an aircraft into a popcorn bar where visitors will be able to step on-board to purchase their essential movie snacks.

It’s been over 30 years since ‘Top Gun’ first graced the big screen but the magic of characters Maverick and Goose will be flying high during this special evening event at the RAF Museum Cosford. This American romantic military action film stars Tom Cruise as Lieutenant Pete “Maverick” Mitchell, a hotshot fighter pilot who’s reckless attitude puts him at odds with his fellow pilots. The film follows Maverick and his Radar Intercept Officer Nick “Goose” Bradshaw’s journey to refine their elite flying skills, coupled with fighting for the attention of the beautiful flight instructor. Packed with plenty of flying action and romantic comedy, ‘Top Gun’ is a timeless classic suitable for film lovers aged 12 and over.

In the build up to the movie, why not take advantage of some of the tasty hot food and beverages on offer. The Ironbridge Catering Company will be joining the event, serving a delicious selection of American inspired street food, all served from their converted yellow American School Bus. Then why not enjoy some themed cocktails or a glass of fizz courtesy of Champavan who will be serving drinks throughout the evening from their converted VW Campervan. For those who prefer a hot beverage, Drink Up will be serving hot drinks and snacks from ‘Hank’, their converted American Dodge Van.

Film fans are encouraged to bring picnic chairs and blankets for their own comfort as the film will be screened outdoors on a grassed area – there is no allocated seating, so arrive early to get the best spot! Visitors are also welcome to bring their own food and drink on the night, all drinks must be in plastic bottles or cans and no BBQ’s are permitted.

Ticket holders will also have exclusive after-hours access to the Museum’s Hangar 1 when gates open at 7pm. There will be plenty of time to enjoy some of the tasty street food, a cocktail or two and of course stock up on your popcorn, before you settle down to watch the movie at 8.30pm (film start time may alter slightly, depending on light conditions). The running time is approximately 105mins and the movie is certified 12 years and over, under 16’s will not be admitted unless accompanied by an adult.

RAF Museum Cosford Public Events Manager, Abi Betteridge said:
“We are excited to be launching our first ever outdoor cinema event here at the RAF Museum Cosford with the screening of ‘Top Gun’. It’s such an iconic film and so fitting for us as a venue – where else can you watch a military movie surrounded by real military aircraft? We hope that a great movie, combined with the unique setting and all the added extra’s like our aircraft popcorn bar will create an enjoyable and memorable cinema experience for our visitors. Plus, if visitors have any suggestions as to what film they want us to screen next time, we would love to hear their ideas.”

If you feel the need…..the need for speed, head to the Museum’s website where tickets are now available to purchase in advance www.rafmuseum.org/cosford priced at £10 per person. Tickets will also be available on the evening priced at £15 per person, subject to availability. Parking for ticket holders is free of charge.

With smoke trailing, flags flying, performing amazing formations both in the air and under the parachute, The Princess of Wales’s Royal Regiment’s Parachute display team – “The Tigers” – will be dropping into Wings & Wheels on Saturday 26th and Sunday 27th August at Dunsfold Aerodrome near Guildford, Surrey.

The Tigers are one of the most exciting air spectacles our visitors will enjoy over the weekend and, following a salute to the airshow team, visitors to Wings & Wheels can interact with The Tigers as they venture into the main Arena and perform a parachute packing demonstration. They will also be available to chat and sign programmes from the shows official merchandise stand.

Jamie McAllister, Event Director comments: “The Tigers are a fantastic interactive display at Wings & Wheels. They drop into the arena in spectacular style before spending time meeting and greeting our visitors. They are a great addition to the Show and we are looking forward to saluting their arrival.”

The Tigers are the flagship team for the Princess of Wales’s Royal Regiment, whose seniority stems from the Tangier Regiment of 1661 thus having the distinction of being the senior English Infantry Regiment of the line. Soldiers of the Regiment are recruited from Kent, Surrey, Sussex, London, Hampshire, Isle of Wight and the Channel Islands. Members of The Tigers consist of volunteers from various battalions of the regiment.

Visitors to Wings & Wheels can also enjoy other air displays including the Red Arrows, Eurofighter Typhoon, Battle of Britain Memorial Flight (two Spitfires and Lancaster), Chinook (Saturday only), Apache Display Team with pyrotechnics, The Blades, B25 Mitchell and much, much more.

The ‘Wings’ of the event would not be complete without a close-up inspection of all the weekend’s visiting aircraft including the Royal Navy Wildcat, RAF Puma, Apache, Dunsfold’s resident Sea Hawk, and Hunter as well as the infamous Boeing 747, the Brooklands VC10 and Aces High DC3, all open for tours.

Supercars and classic and vintage icons put on an awe-inspiring display of power and speed on the Top Gear track in a 2 hour auto spectacular. The ‘Wheels’ of the show includes displays from McLaren 12C, Lamborghini Aventador Roadster and Huracan, Pagani Zonda, Ferrari California T, Aston Martin Rapide, Dodge Monaco, TVR Tasmin 280i, Ducati Multistrada 1200s, Ferrari F355 Berlinetta, Ford GT40 and Lotus Elise.

Visit the Wheels Zone with a bigger and better crowd line parade and interactive displays from car and motorbike clubs. The Stunt Zone will be exploding into 2017 with four wheeled hair-raising performances from Mission Motorsport and the popular Monster Truck arena returns offering demonstrations and passenger rides.

The Military Zone & Parade is interactive and explosive bringing re-enactors, a living history zone, and our popular military vehicle parade. The Zone has over 80 military vehicles, re-enactment groups, as well as the history of Dunsfold Aerodrome and Army, Navy and RAF recruitment stands for everyone’s enjoyment.

Sid’s Zone is an action packed free area for the little ones. From 10:00 until 16:00 the kids can join in with colouring competitions, arts and crafts, paper plane challenges, face painting and the popular Sid’s Trail which encourages the whole family to search the arena for questions and answers to win a goody bag. Meet and greets with show mascot Siddeley and the display pilots are not to be missed.

The excitement and anticipation doesn’t stop at the main displays as the 32-acre public arena is bursting with a huge variety of interactive attractions containing all you need for a great family day out. The show arena boasts, kit-plane demonstrations, military outlets and displays, static aircraft, fairground and over 80 retail outlets selling a wide variety of products and gifts. Shopping in the arena includes a craft marquee full of craft gifts and tempting tea time treats to take home as well as a *New* Vintage Market with hair and make-up, clothes and collectables.

As the last plane touches down the party starts across the arena with musical evening entertainment from Champagne at the Blitz, a 1940s songbird trio armed with smooth harmonies, seamed nylons and lots and LOTS of red lippy!

Taking the hassle out of your day the show includes added extras to make your experience even more enjoyable; over 25 fixed-price catering outlets, two bars, hospitality facilities, free on-site parking, public camping, lost children point, disabled access, informative show commentary, opportunities to meet the pilots, official show merchandise and grandstand seating.

The 13th annual Wings & Wheels will be held over the August Bank holiday weekend; Saturday 26th & Sunday 27th August 2017, at Dunsfold Park near Guildford, Surrey, and is open to spectators from 09:00 until 21:00.

Advanced rate tickets from £22 for adults or £50 for a family. Single child tickets (for children aged 5 – 15) will be £7. Children under 5 go free. Hospitality packages start from £155 per person, weekend passes, grandstand tickets and camping are also available. For more information visit www.wingsandwheels.net or to book standard tickets call 08712 305 572.

Wings & Wheels is promoted by Dunsfold Park Limited and in 2017 will be assisting the fundraising efforts of Brooklands Museum Trust and Help for Heroes.

The Centenary of women serving within the Armed Forces will be marked during the poignant Women’s Services Memorial Day taking place here at the Allied Air Forces Memorial & Yorkshire Air Museum this coming Sunday 13th August.

It was on 7th July 1917 when the Women’s Army Auxiliary Corp was formed, introducing women into the Army for the first time, although it was a largely clerical unit. This was followed in November 1917 by the formation of the Women’s Royal Naval Service and the birth of the ‘Wrens’, as the service is affectionately known as.

“This annual Service and Wreath Laying Ceremony exists to pay tribute and fully recognise the role that women have played in the defence of the nation from the First World War to the present day, where they now take on frontline duties, shoulder to shoulder with their male counterparts on the ground, at sea and in the air. In fact, it is a tribute to the diversity and inclusiveness of all forms of our service community that gender, sexual orientation and ethnic background is no barrier to serving in the defence of the nation.” – Ian Reed ONM FRAeS Museum Director

The RAF Battle of Britain Memorial Flight have once again shown their support for the ceremony, with the allocation of a flypast by the legendary Hawker Hurricane and Supermarine Spitfire, which will set off proceedings in the early afternoon in quite spectacular style as the spine-tingling roar of Merlin engines fills the Elvington sky. As the aircraft disappear in the distance, the Parade will set off to march through the centre of the Museum to our unique and inspiring Women’s Memorial Garden, where a Wreath Laying Ceremony will take place.

Following this, the Parade will reform and march back, where, we are delighted to announce, the Salute will be taken by the Lord Lieutenant of the East Riding of Yorkshire, the Hon. Mrs Susan Cunliffe-Lister.

“It is especially fitting that Susan has been able to join us for the occasion, as it will see the Laying Up of the Branch Standards of Keyingham and Stamford Bridge Royal British Legion Women’s Section, making this the last time that these Standards will be presented and Paraded. This is always a sad occasion, as these flags are symbols of service and friendship, carried and marched with pride and honour. Our Station Chaplain, the Revd. Charles “Taff” Morgan MBE will accept the Standards into our care for perpetuity, where they will join many others of various Service organisations already at rest in our Chapel.” – Ian Richardson, Communications Manager.

The Parade will be led by musicians from the Yorkshire Military Band & Corps of Drums, creating a rousing and colourful spectacle for all participants and visitors to enjoy.

Gates Open at 10:00am and normal Museum Admission applies: £10 Adults; £8 Concessions and £5 Children (5-15. Family admission £26 (2A + 3Ch.)

www.yorkshireairmuseum.org

We would like to draw your attention to a special event to be held at Bircham Newton in May 2018. In addition to being the centenary of the birth of the Royal Air Force, 2018 will also be the 100th anniversary of the birth of the former RAF station at Bircham Newton. The first unit to fly from its airfield, No. 3 Fighting School, arrived in May 1918, just one month after the birth of the Royal Air Force. The Fighting School was soon joined by a second unit flying giant Handley Page bombers, designed to bomb Germany from this Norfolk airfield. Flying continued beyond the Armistice and throughout the inter-war years, increasing dramatically during the second World War. The station was finally closed in the early 1960s, during the height of the Cold War, but flying briefly returned in the mid-1960s, when trials of the Kestrel jump jet were conducted on the airfield.

To mark the centenary of the birth of RAF Bircham Newton as a flying station, it is planned to hold a Veterans’ Day event at Bircham Newton on the afternoon of Saturday, 19th of May 2018. The event will be open to all former servicemen, who served or were trained at Bircham Newton, and their close families. The largest group of visitors is expected to be former RAF administrative apprentices, who trained at Bircham Newton in the late 1950s and early 1960s, but many other veterans are also expected to attend, such as former national servicemen, former members of the Women’s Royal Air Force and officers who were trained at the Officers’ Advanced Training School (OATS) or its successor the Junior Command and Staff School (JCSS).

There will be many attractions for the veterans and their families to enjoy: the RAF Heritage Centre will be open for guided tours; an illustrated talk will be given on the role of Bircham Newton during the Great War; local history groups and service associations have been invited along to exhibit their material; military vehicles and large-scale model aircraft should be on display; local ATC squadrons and the Royal British Legion have also been invited to participate in a brief end-of-day ceremony, when the RAF ensign will be lowered to the sound of the Last Post. Tea, coffee and other refreshments will be available throughout the afternoon. It is also hoped to organise a short flypast, if possible.

Entrance will be free and free car parking will be provided. Disabled access and toilets will also be available, and help will be given to those with mobility problems. Further details regarding location etc can be found on our website:- http://www.rafbnmp.org.uk Our postcode is PE31 6RB.

Wings & Wheels are thrilled to announce that after the success of the Monster Truck passenger rides in 2016, the team will be returning on Saturday 26th and Sunday 27th August 2017 to Dunsfold Aerodrome in Surrey.

The Mac Tools Cruiser, owned by Bigfoot 4X4, will be showing off its power and might in its very own arena as the team offer thrilling passenger rides over the weekend. Based on a 1988 Dodge Ram, the Monster Truck has been modified to sit on massive 66 inch tyres, stands at over 10 feet tall and is powered by a big American V8. Taking out ten passengers at a time, this is one ride not to miss.

Monster Trucks have been a part of the stunt and racing world in Europe for a number of years after first being developed in America. The Mac Tools Cruiser will take ten passengers on an exhilarating ride around the Monster Truck Arena, demonstrating its immense power and capabilities. Rides will cost £10 and be on a first come first serve basis over the Wings & Wheels weekend.

Ed Lowman, Wheels Zone Manager comments: “We are delighted that the Mac Tools cruiser is coming back to Wings & Wheels for a second year. Its sheer presence and noise brings a smile to the faces of our young and old visitors so it’s definitely something not to miss!”

Visitors to Wings & Wheels can also enjoy the full complement from the RAF as they display with the Red Arrows, Eurofighter and Battle of Britain Memorial Flight (two Spitfires & Lancaster) air displays. Supercars, classic’s and race cars put on an awe inspiring display of power and speed on the Top Gear track in a two-hour auto spectacular, in our Motoring Demonstration. Over in our Wheels Zone is an array of interactive and static displays as wells as four wheeled shows in the Stunt Zone and a new Monster Truck arena offering demonstrations and passenger rides.

The show also includes over 25 fixed-price catering outlets, 2 bars, hospitality facilities, free on-site parking, public camping, lost children point, disabled access, informative show commentary, opportunities to meet the pilots, official show merchandise and grandstand seating.

The 13th annual Wings & Wheels will be held over the August Bank holiday weekend; Saturday 26th & Sunday 27th August 2017, at Dunsfold Park near Guildford, Surrey, and is open to spectators from 09:00 until 21:00.

Advanced rate tickets from £22 for adults or £50 for a family. Single child tickets (for children aged 5 – 15) will be £7. Children under 5 go free. Hospitality packages start from £155 per person, weekend passes, grandstand tickets and camping are also available. For more information visit www.wingsandwheels.net or to book standard tickets call 08712 305 572.

Wings & Wheels is promoted by Dunsfold Park Limited and in 2017 will be assisting the fundraising efforts of Brooklands Museum Trust and Help for Heroes.

For the first time at Wings & Wheels the Bell UH-1 or ‘Huey’ will be displaying in the five-hour Airshow on Saturday 26th and Sunday 27th August

One of the most famous helicopters in the world, it is to helicopters what the Spitfire and the P51 Mustang are to fixed wing aircraft. The Huey’s most famous role will be remembered as the Air Assault and Medivac operations in the Vietnam War between 1962 and 1975. They flew 36,145,000 sorties during the conflict. Somewhere in the region of 2,600 Hueys were based in Vietnam.

The Hughes OH-6A was designed for use as a military scout during the Vietnam war to meet the US Army’s need for an extremely manoeuvrable light observation helicopter.

The helicopter on display at Wings & Wheels is a genuine Vietnam veteran and the first time this magnificent helicopter will display at Dunsfold.

Jamie McAllister, Event Director comments: “Helicopters are without doubt incredibly popular at Wings & Wheels and so we are all delighted to be adding the world famous ‘Huey’ to our five-hour Airshow. Another first for our line-up and will definitely be a hit with our visitors.”

Visitors to Wings & Wheels can also enjoy other air displays including the Red Arrows, Eurofighter Typhoon, Battle of Britain Memorial Flight (two Spitfires and Lancaster), Chinook (Saturday only), Apache Display Team with pyrotechnics, Tigers Parachute Team, Blades, B25 Mitchell and much, much more.

The ‘Wings’ of the event would not be complete without a close-up inspection of all the weekend’s visiting aircraft including the Royal Navy Wildcat, RAF Puma, Apache, Dunsfold’s resident Sea Hawk, and Hunter as well as the infamous Boeing 747, the Brooklands VC10 and Aces High DC3, all open for tours.

Supercars and classic and vintage icons put on an awe-inspiring display of power and speed on the Top Gear track in a 2 hour auto spectacular. The ‘Wheels’ of the show includes displays from McLaren 12C, Lamborghini Aventador Roadster and Huracan, Pagani Zonda, Ferrari California T, Aston Martin Rapide, Dodge Monaco, TVR Tasmin 280i, Ducati Multistrada 1200s, Ferrari F355 Berlinetta, Ford GT40 and Lotus Elise.

Visit the Wheels Zone with a bigger and better crowd line parade and interactive displays from car and motorbike clubs. The Stunt Zone will be exploding into 2017 with four wheeled hair-raising performances from Mission Motorsport and the popular Monster Truck arena returns offering demonstrations and passenger rides.

The Military Zone & Parade is interactive and explosive bringing re-enactors, a living history zone, and our popular military vehicle parade. The Zone has over 80 military vehicles, re-enactment groups, as well as the history of Dunsfold Aerodrome and Army, Navy and RAF recruitment stands for everyone’s enjoyment.

Sid’s Zone is an action packed free area for the little ones. From 10:00 until 16:00 the kids can join in with colouring competitions, arts and crafts, paper plane challenges, face painting and the popular Sid’s Trail which encourages the whole family to search the arena for questions and answers to win a goody bag. Meet and greets with show mascot Siddeley and the display pilots are not to be missed.

The excitement and anticipation doesn’t stop at the main displays as the 32-acre public arena is bursting with a huge variety of interactive attractions containing all you need for a great family day out. The show arena boasts, kit-plane demonstrations, military outlets and displays, static aircraft, fairground and over 80 retail outlets selling a wide variety of products and gifts. Shopping in the arena includes a craft marquee full of craft gifts and tempting tea time treats to take home as well as a *New* Vintage Market with hair and make-up, clothes and collectables.

As the last plane touches down the party starts across the arena with musical evening entertainment from Champagne at the Blitz, a 1940s songbird trio armed with smooth harmonies, seamed nylons and lots and LOTS of red lippy!

Taking the hassle out of your day the show includes added extras to make your experience even more enjoyable; over 25 fixed-price catering outlets, two bars, hospitality facilities, free on-site parking, public camping, lost children point, disabled access, informative show commentary, opportunities to meet the pilots, official show merchandise and grandstand seating.

The 13th annual Wings & Wheels will be held over the August Bank holiday weekend; Saturday 26th & Sunday 27th August 2017, at Dunsfold Park near Guildford, Surrey, and is open to spectators from 09:00 until 21:00.

Advanced rate tickets from £22 for adults or £50 for a family. Single child tickets (for children aged 5 – 15) will be £7. Children under 5 go free. Hospitality packages start from £155 per person, weekend passes, grandstand tickets and camping are also available. For more information visit www.wingsandwheels.net or to book standard tickets call 08712 305 572.

Wings & Wheels is promoted by Dunsfold Park Limited and in 2017 will be assisting the fundraising efforts of Brooklands Museum Trust and Help for Heroes.

Date: 15-16 September 2017
Time: 6.00pm to 9.00pm
Cost: £12.50 per person

The Wolverhampton built, Second World War British Battle of Britain fighter aircraft, Boulton Paul Defiant Mk1 will be one of the highlights at the forthcoming ‘Open Cockpits Evening’ taking place at the Royal Air Force Museum Cosford on 15-16 September 2017.

The Boulton Paul Defiant Mk 1 joined the aircraft display at Cosford only a few short months ago and with just 300 tickets available per evening, organisers are anticipating the event will be hugely popular with aviation fans eager to get the first close look inside (no internal access). The aircraft is the last surviving example of its kind, built by Boulton Paul at its Pendeford, Wolverhampton factory in 1938. This two-seat turret fighter, operated with mixed fortunes during the Battle of Britain period but found its niche as a night fighter during 1940-42.

The RAF Museum’s example, serial number N1671 was operated by the newly formed No 307 (Polish) Squadron RAF, who became operational in December 1940. It was painted in its all black night fighter colour scheme the following January and carried out 15 patrols before moving to No 285 (Anti-aircraft Co-Operation) Squadron in June 1942, its last operational user.

RAF Museum Cosford Curator, Al McLean said:
“After four decades on display at the RAF Museum London, the sole surviving intact Defiant example of its type was transferred to Cosford for aviation fans in the Midlands to enjoy. The new arrival has been added to the list of aircraft open at the September Open Cockpits Evening, making this the first time enthusiasts will be able to view inside the cockpit of this iconic British fighter.”

Also new to the ‘Open Cockpits Evening’ line-up is a former frontline fighter the Gloster Gladiator 1 – the first enclosed cockpit and last biplane fighter introduced into RAF service. Although Gladiators saw operational service at home it was most successfully employed overseas particularly in the defence of Malta. At the outbreak of the Second World War, four home based RAF fighter squadrons equipped with Gladiators were sent to France and after just ten days of hard fighting, all the aircraft had been lost. In a desperate attempt to provide fighter cover for the ‘little ships’ involved in the Dunkirk evacuation, a detachment of home based aircraft known as ‘G’ Flight was formed at RAF Manston, Kent. They were quickly deployed to assist with the rescue of more than 338,000 British and French soldiers trapped on the beaches.

During the early war years, Gladiators were used by the RAF in several other overseas operations including; Norway, Greece, North Africa and the Middle East. The Museum’s example, serial number K8042 was also used for gun trials and experiments, whereby an additional pair was fitted under the top wing, giving a total of six guns instead of the usual four. Like the Defiant it’s displayed alongside, the Gladiator is also a new addition to the aircraft display at Cosford and the September event is the first opportunity for aviation fans to view the interior (no internal access).

Other highlights for visitors on the night will include the Fairey Delta 2 (FD2) – one of only two FD2S ever built, devised in response to Britain trailing behind in supersonic aircraft design during the late 1940s. Plus, the Saunders-Roe SR53 – this interceptor used a rocket motor to climb rapidly to high altitudes and reached Mach 2 (twice the speed of sound) at high altitude during trials.

RAF Museum Cosford Public Events Manager, Abi Betteridge said:
“Visitors will also be able to view inside the rear fuselage of the Avro Lincoln B2, never before opened to the public. Just too late to see service during the Second World War, the Lincoln became the mainstay of Bomber Command post-war, but was destined for a short front line career as the Cold War and the jet age brought the shortcomings of its performance into sharp relief. It’s one of our most popular aircraft and this is the first time it’s been included in the event, we hope visitors will enjoy the rare opportunity to take a look inside the fuselage.”

Ticket holders will also have exclusive after-hours access to the Museum from 6pm to 9pm to experience what it feels like to sit inside a military aircraft that’s seen action around the world and marvel at the advanced technologies on unique airframes. A total of 15 aircraft will be available on the night and to make sure visitors get the most out of the event and access as many cockpits as possible, there will be a large team of Volunteers manning each aircraft to answer any questions from visitors.

Tickets are now available to purchase through the Museum’s website http://www.rafmuseum.org/cosford and cost £12.50 per person which includes parking. Minimum height restrictions of 1.07 metres will apply. The Museum will close at 5.00pm both days; however the Visitor Centre and Refuel Restaurant will remain open for ticket holders and will be serving a special ‘Open Cockpits Evening’ menu.

A familiar sight over the skies of Dunsfold Aerodrome, the Chinook will be displaying at Wings & Wheels on Saturday 26th August.

For the 2017 Display Season Squadron Leader Matt Holloway and the team have created a new display formation sequence consisting of 17 different manoeuvres including, the opening Run in to Crowd Centre for Nose Over with Turn Away, Pedal Turn, ‘Roller Coaster’ (Nose Over followed by Nose Over), 360 degree Wingover at Crowd Centre, 180 degree Nose Down Quickstop, Taxi Sideways for Crewman Wave, 540 degree ‘Gorni’ Corkscrew, 315 degree Spiral Descent to break from Crowd
Before they finish with the Over the Shoulder Departure.

It’s a thrilling display which not only shows how skilful the pilots are, but the versatility and manoeuvrability of the Chinook helicopter used for trooping, resupply and battlefield Casualty Evacuation (CASEVAC) and for carrying internal and/or underslung loads.

Jamie McAllister, Event Director comments: “We can never see enough of the Chinook and its impressive display. The skill the pilots use to command the large helicopter has to be seen to be believed and we are thrilled to be welcoming the popular team back to Wings & Wheels.”
The RAF Chinook Display Team is drawn from front line pilots who still have important primary roles to fulfil. Whilst the team are rehearsing the display, the Display Manager is busy putting together the team’s promotional material, organising the year’s air show visits, engaging with the media and among many other tasks readying the transport arrangements that allow a team of around 10 people to arrive at all our air shows ahead of the display aircraft. All these tasks must be done alongside the crew members’ regular jobs and secondary duties.

Visitors to Wings & Wheels can also enjoy other air displays including the Eurofighter Typhoon, Battle of Britain Memorial Flight (two Spitfires and Lancaster), Chinook (Saturday only), Apache Display Team with pyrotechnics, Tigers Parachute Team, The Blades and much, much more.

The ‘Wings’ of the event would not be complete without a close-up inspection of all the weekend’s visiting aircraft including the Royal Navy Wildcat, RAF Puma, Apache, Dunsfold’s resident Sea Hawk, and Hunter as well as the infamous Boeing 747, the Brooklands VC10 and Aces High DC3, all open for tours.

Supercars and classic and vintage icons put on an awe-inspiring display of power and speed on the Top Gear track in a 2 hour auto spectacular. The ‘Wheels’ of the show includes displays from McLaren 12C, Lamborghini Aventador Roadster and Huracan, Pagani Zonda, Ferrari California T, Aston Martin Rapide, Dodge Monaco, TVR Tasmin 280i, Ducati Multistrada 1200s, Ferrari F355 Berlinetta, Ford GT40 and Lotus Elise.

Visit the Wheels Zone with a bigger and better crowd line parade and interactive displays from car and motorbike clubs. The Stunt Zone will be exploding into 2017 with four wheeled hair-raising performances from Mission Motorsport and the popular Monster Truck arena returns offering demonstrations and passenger rides.

The Military Zone & Parade is interactive and explosive bringing re-enactors, a living history zone, and our popular military vehicle parade. The Zone has over 80 military vehicles, re-enactment groups, as well as the history of Dunsfold Aerodrome and Army, Navy and RAF recruitment stands for everyone’s enjoyment.

Sid’s Zone is an action packed free area for the little ones. From 10:00 until 16:00 the kids can join in with colouring competitions, arts and crafts, paper plane challenges, face painting and the popular Sid’s Trail which encourages the whole family to search the arena for questions and answers to win a goody bag. Meet and greets with show mascot Siddeley and the display pilots are not to be missed.

The excitement and anticipation doesn’t stop at the main displays as the 32-acre public arena is bursting with a huge variety of interactive attractions containing all you need for a great family day out. The show arena boasts, kit-plane demonstrations, military outlets and displays, static aircraft, fairground and over 80 retail outlets selling a wide variety of products and gifts. Shopping in the arena includes a craft marquee full of craft gifts and tempting tea time treats to take home as well as a *New* Vintage Market with hair and make-up, clothes and collectables.

As the last plane touches down the party starts across the arena with musical evening entertainment from Champagne at the Blitz, a 1940s songbird trio armed with smooth harmonies, seamed nylons and lots and LOTS of red lippy!

Taking the hassle out of your day the show includes added extras to make your experience even more enjoyable; over 25 fixed-price catering outlets, two bars, hospitality facilities, free on-site parking, public camping, lost children point, disabled access, informative show commentary, opportunities to meet the pilots, official show merchandise and grandstand seating.

The 13th annual Wings & Wheels will be held over the August Bank holiday weekend; Saturday 26th & Sunday 27th August 2017, at Dunsfold Park near Guildford, Surrey, and is open to spectators from 09:00 until 21:00.

Advanced rate tickets from £22 for adults or £50 for a family. Single child tickets (for children aged 5 – 15) will be £7. Children under 5 go free. Hospitality packages start from £155 per person, weekend passes, grandstand tickets and camping are also available. For more information visit www.wingsandwheels.net or to book standard tickets call 08712 305 572.

Wings & Wheels is promoted by Dunsfold Park Limited and in 2017 will be assisting the fundraising efforts of Brooklands Museum Trust and Help for Heroes.