flight deckNovember 2014 Preserving the Nation’s Heritage FLY NAVY HERITAGE TRUST EXEMPLARY

SEE INSIDE ... AIRMANSHIP Close Call Lt Cdr Chris Götke’s quick thinking and skilled airmanship saves historic Hawker Sea Fury Classic Fighter joins collection Last flying Sea Vixen in the world joins Heritage Collection Game Changers Ambassadors’ Dinner Raises SAVES HISTORIC £136,000! Restoration of Swordfish W5856 Mk 1 Blackfish restored to SEA FURY former glory Centenary Celebrations Commanding Officer of the Historic Flight Lt Cdr Chris Götke RN displayed Fleet Air Arm celebrates 100th exemplary airmanship when the Fly Navy Heritage Trust’s Hawker Sea Fury T20 G-RNHF Anniversary of the formation of (VX281) suffered engine failure during a display manoeuvre at RNAS Culdrose Air Day on the 31 July, forcing him to take swift action and carry out a dramatic emergency landing.

Lt Cdr Götke’s quick thinking and Tower. Within seconds it rapidly became Support the skilful handling put the aircraft on apparent, however, that the engine had no the ground safely, saving both the useable power and the glide angle would not Sea Fury aircraft and himself. A witness on allow the aircraft to reach the airfield.” the display line said “I have T20 complete and utter respect for the “The situation was now serious,” continued Bill pilot. It was a text book forced Covington, “the aircraft went into a steep dive Centaurus landing in extremely difficult and Chris had only seconds to respond to and circumstances.” recover from a fast moving and hazardous Engine changing set of circumstances. The gear was donate to “The aircraft lost power at a critical selected up again, the propeller pitch was point in the display” said coarsened and the flaps extended for maximum fnht.co.uk/t20-appeal.html Commodore Bill Covington, a lift in order to get the aircraft flying again. Trustee of the Fly Navy Heritage Simultaneously, Chris made an assessment of the Trust. “Chris did a fantastic job. As surrounding fields with a view to making an the aircraft started its descent from emergency landing but the conditions were too 2000 feet significant vibration was felt from the dangerous. At this point, with his options rapidly engine. This was initially thought to be the engine diminishing Chris felt he may have to jump from Follow us on Twitter running rough. Chris closed the throttle gently the aircraft. “It was a horrible, horrible feeling,” @flynavyheritage and zooming to height positioned the aircraft for said Chris, “but with the wheels retracted again low key left to the duty runway. With his speed the glide angle improved and I decided to remain Find us on Facebook falling below 200 knots but still expecting to have with the aircraft and attempt a forced landing on Join our community at sufficient power to make the airfield, he lowered the airfield.” facebook.com/fnht the gear and made an emergency call to the Continued overleaf

The Fly Navy Heritage Trust is a charitable company Limited by guarantee registered in England and Wales No. 5971284 SUPPORTING THE ROYAL NAVY HISTORIC FLIGHT, THE Registered Charity No. 1117272 AND ST BARTHOLOMEW’S, THE FLEET AIR ARM MEMORIAL CHURCH ... EXEMPLARY AIRMANSHIP Editorial Rear Admiral Terry Loughran CB SAVES HISTORIC SEA FURY Chairman of FLY NAVY Heritage continued from front page

As a small, pioneering charity our As I prepare to pass the baton, my lengthy of Naval Aviation in a troubled world is work is focused primarily on stint as Chairman has been greatly eased recognised by opinion formers, decision delivering flying historic Royal Navy by the support of an outstanding and makers and the public at large. aircraft over the public at air shows uniquely qualified Board of Trustees. and events around the country. It should be the aim of all of us to keep This year has been a landmark year The best challenges always have their ups this flame burning bright and I am for the Trust with the addition of and downs. Historic aircraft engines are a confident that the Trust’s dynamic senior the Sea Vixen to the Fly Navy particular pinch point, and an urgent management team, backed by a strong Heritage Collection, enabling the funding priority, but I am hugely business plan is now well placed to show Trust to make a quantum leap encouraged by the innovative and the way. forward into the fast jet era. progressive way in which the Fly Navy Next year, with Taranto 75, the Centenary As well as celebrating the Heritage Trust is moving forward and the of two RNAS VCs and the Sea Vixen Centenary of the formation of the tremendous lift being given to the Trust by Royal Naval Air Service and running its Ambassadors and growing Supporter joining refreshed Swordfish and Sea a full programme of fundraising membership. If you are not already a Furies, we are well placed to highlight the ingenuity, bold tactics and courageous events, 2014 has been a year that Supporter, I hope this event- packed Flight With only seconds to spare, Chris lowered the gear again, and has seen the Trust tackle complex Deck will move you to sign up before you actions that sit at the heart of naval flying. touched down on the runway, but unfortunately the wheels did not issues in a transformative way. reach the end! Don’t be left out in the cold – come on quite lock in time, causing the aircraft to collapse on its board and support your Naval Aviation undercarriage and skid off the runway on to the grass. The accident The challenges of fundraising for With the QE carriers and new aircraft, the Heritage! and emergency services at RNAS Culdrose were on the scene ageing aircraft, and operating them F35, Wildcat and Merlin Mk2s and Mk4s immediately and Lt Cdr Götke escaped injury and climbed out of the in the modern airworthiness rapidly becoming a reality there is a aircraft unhurt. environment, have never been more resurgence in our business and the utility demanding. Our newsletter shows Carrying out a successful forced landing in one of these heavy fast how we have grown and for those heritage aircraft is extremely difficult and Chris’ quick reactions, who would prefer to receive Flight calm decision-making, and skilful flying averted disaster and saved a Deck by email – e-flight deck has precious and historically significant Navy Heritage aircraft. also arrived! Just let us know on Trust Appoints New President and Chairman Speaking after the incident Mike Nixon, Chief Executive of the Fly [email protected] and we will send Navy Heritage Trust said, “The challenges of flying historic aircraft it to you by email in future. The Trustees of the Fly Navy Heritage Trust are delighted to announce two new are greatly under estimated. There are no simulators to train for ‘It was a pretty appointments, Rear Admiral Colin Cooke-Priest CB CVO who took over from The Royal Navy’s historic aircraft are emergency procedures. The Sea Fury is a large, high performance Admiral Sir John Treacher KCB as President of the Trust in September and Rear priceless national treasures – please aircraft and Lt Cdr Götke ably displayed his skills as a Navy Empire Admiral Tom Cunningham CBE, who will succeed Rear Admiral Terry Loughran help us keep them flying by sending Test Pilot, quickly assessing the situation and controlling an amazing piece CB as Chairman in March 2015. a donation today. Thank you. impeccably gentle landing, ensuring minimum damage to the aircraft.” Sue Eagles “Rear Admiral Colin Cooke-Priest and Rear Boardroom’ reflect on an extraordinary Admiral Tom Cunningham are both career. “We dined Sir John out at the of flying!’ A photographer who witnessed the crash said, “I was filming the exceptionally qualified to take the Trust Ambassadors’ Dinner in the IWM” said display when I saw smoke billowing from the Sea Fury’s engine. The Speaking of Lt Cdr Chris G tke’s close call, Captain Eric forward and develop our vision” said Rear Rear Admiral Loughran. “He retired on his pilot diverted around the edge of the crowd and was obviously ‘Winkle’ Brown CBE DSC AFCӧ Royal Navy, pictured with Chris in Admiral Loughran. 90th birthday, in the Centenary year of the heading in to make a swift landing. Great skill and calm was shown Contact Us front of the Sea Fury T20 the day before RNAS Culdrose Air formation of the RNAS, having just been by the pilot.” Day, said “It was a pretty amazing piece of flying! There Rear Admiral Cooke-Priest, a former Flag awarded his Arctic Star – it doesn’t get An assessment of the damage by the specialists at Weald Aviation couldn’t have been a better person at the controls! Chris, the General Enquiries Officer Naval Aviation, Chairman of the much better than that!” who maintain the Sea Fury T20 is that while she will certainly need a entire Fleet Air Arm community salutes you!” 01935 842005 Fleet Air Arm Officers’ Association, new Centaurus engine; she is eminently repairable. “The offers of [email protected] Gentleman Usher to Her Majesty the Rear Admiral Loughran, who is also due to help from Ambassadors and Supporters have been incredible” said “Lt Cdr Götke’s flying skills, which would have been campaign director Queen and Master of the Guild of Air retire after ten years as Chairman of the Tim Manna, Trustee of the Fly Navy Heritage Trust. “We still need outstanding in a modern aircraft, were altogether exceptional Pilots and Air Navigators said “Admiral Sir Trust in March 2015, continued, “I am considerable financial support but are devoting all resources to in a 60 year old piston fighter. His quick thinking, exemplary 01935 849200 John has been a highly respected President delighted that Tom Cunningham has getting her back in the air again.” airmanship and total dedication to duty, stand out as one of [email protected] of the Trust for 23 years and it is a great accepted the nomination of Trustees to the finest examples of courage in the air in recent years.” events honour to step into his shoes.” relieve me as Chairman. A former Head of 01935 452521 the Fleet Air Arm, distinguished aviator, [email protected] Admiral Sir John Treacher served on Arctic ship driver and MOD warrior, he has the Convoys, was a Seafire pilot in the Korean credibility, drive and leadership experience, sea vixen War, commanded HMS Eagle and was coupled with an irrepressible enthusiasm [email protected] Commander-in-Chief Fleet before joining for historic aircraft, to champion and fnht.co.uk the aviation industry. His memoires, ‘Life at advance our unique heritage for many Full Throttle – From Wardroom to years to come.”

Tim Skeet CARRIER FAST JET Classic Fleet Air Arm Fighter joins AVIATION IS BACK! fly navy Heritage Collection

“The Sea Vixen has the potential to engage with a new generation of audiences, both on the air display circuit “We will keep and on-line” G-CVIX flying!” Michael Ryan, Trustee Bill Covington CBE

The Fly Navy Heritage Trust is DS Aviation, owned by Julian Jones. delighted to announce that the only Speaking as he handed over a set of flying Sea Vixen in the world, Sea ceremonial keys to the aircraft, Julian Vixen FAW2 G-CVIX XP924, has said “It gives me great pleasure to joined the Trust’s collection of know that G-CVIX will have pride of historic Royal Navy aircraft. place in the Fly Navy Heritage Trust collection and will continue to be part The classic Fleet Air Arm fighter which of our national naval aviation heritage was gifted to the Trust by her former for many years to come.” owner, Julian Jones, at a ceremony at RNAS Yeovilton in September, returned “Fifty years ago Sea Vixens were to RNAS Yeovilton in style, thrilling the patrolling the skies of the Arabian Gulf waiting reception of guests with a ensuring that oil flowed through the spectacular and emotional display. Straits of Hormuz to the western Painted in 899 Naval Air Squadron world” continued Julian. “Fifty years colours from HMS Eagle in 1971 and on, my own business trades freely “It’s a fantastic combined flown by former 899 Naval Air throughout the Middle East region and achievement of the Royal Squadron pilot, Jonathon Whaley, it it has been a privilege to have the Navy, the Fly Navy was a poignant homecoming. opportunity to show my appreciation by keeping the Sea Vixen flying and Heritage Trust and private Speaking at the handover event, fast jet carrier aviation in the public enterprise coming together Commodore Bill Covington CBE, the eye.” to preserve the Nation’s Sea Vixen Team Leader for the Trust, Naval Aviation Heritage” said “The Sea Vixen has a seminal place Also speaking at the ceremony, Rear in the heart of the Fleet Air Arm. We Admiral Russ Harding OBE said “We Rear Admiral Russ Harding will safeguard the future of this iconic are delighted that the Sea Vixen has OBE, Assistant Chief of Naval aircraft – and keep G-CVIX flying!” returned home to the Royal Navy and Staff Aviation, Amphibious are extremely grateful to Julian Jones. Capability and Carriers. In recent years G-CVIX, affectionately His passion and commitment to known as ‘Foxy Lady’, has been flown keeping the Sea Vixen flying over many and operated by Bournemouth based years has saved a national treasure.” To donate to the Sea Vixen email [email protected] Continued over ... Cold War Warrior TimSkeet to Fly the Flag TRUST WINS GOLD! Awards 2013

The Fly Navy Heritage Trust won two Gold Awards in two different categories in the prestigious IVCA LiveCom Awards in January.

The awards, for ‘Best use of Music’ and tribute to the Swordfish in the Battle of best film in the ‘Heritage’ category, were the Atlantic. awarded to the Trust for its two fundraising films by the International The films, which were produced by Visual Communications Association, Grosvenor TV with script writing and Europe’s professional communications creative direction by Sue Eagles, the body that promotes excellence in live Trust’s Campaign Director, were in and experiential communications. competition against many large budget productions. “The room was a who’s “Both films were not only powerfully who of leading agencies and some of Royal Yacht Britannia Sea Vixen evocative but they stood out as truly the biggest brands in the industry” said effective in engaging audiences and Sue. “We were in the running with Dinner Raises £15,000 Supporters Day fulfilling the objective of raising money companies such as Nike, Lucozade, JCB for the charity” said the panel of judges. and Jeep. I couldn’t believe that we won The Trust relies greatly on the support RNAS Yeovilton Gold – twice! It was like winning two of industry and corporate companies The film that won ‘Best Use of Music’ Oscars . . . and I would like to thank Sat 12 Sept 2015 and this year’s annual Industry and used the dynamic soundtrack ‘Great Gig Rolls Royce and Lockheed Martin for Corporate Supporters’ Dinner was held in the Sky’ from Pink Floyd’s ‘Dark Side sponsoring the films, EMI Music for use in the State Dining Room on board the of the Moon’ album and the Best Film in of the Pink Floyd track and Grosvenor TV Royal Yacht Britannia in Edinburgh. the ‘Heritage’ category was a moving particularly, for their longstanding support to the Trust.” The evening, which was also attended The acquisition of the only flying de Havilland Sea Vixen G-CVIX XP924 has by members of the ship’s company of been a transformational gift for the Fly Navy Heritage Trust, enabling the Trust HMS Queen Elizabeth, was a great to take a quantum leap forward into the fast jet era of naval flying. Aviation Legend success raising over £15,000. “The Sea Vixen will play a key role in “In the Sea Vixen, the term ‘Multi Role’ driving the Trust’s strategic vision” said took on a new meaning’ said Admiral Sir Sue Eagles, the Trust’s Campaign Director Michael Layard KCB CBE, President of the ‘Winkle’ Brown relives history “allowing us to represent the Fly Navy Heritage Trust Sea Vixen Team evolutionary story of naval flying from and a former Commanding Officer of Fly Navy Heritage Trust Ambassador the Swordfish bi-plane through to the 899 Naval Air Squadron. “While All ‘We don’t under estimate the and aviation legend Captain Eric Sea Fury, the last of the big piston Weather fighting and Ground Attack, challenge of keeping such a ‘Winkle’ Brown CBE DSC AFC visited aircraft, to the early jet age with the Sea were its primary roles, Close Air Support, magnificent and potent RNAS Yeovilton in July to deliver the Hawk and the introduction of the high Air to Air Tanking and even Tactical Royal Aeronautical Society, Fleet Air speed strike aircraft of the 60s and 70s Nuclear bombing were also its stock in aircraft flying and we rely Arm Branch, inaugural ‘Winkle Brown’ with the Sea Vixen.” trade. The aircraft holds a very special greatly on our supporters, lecture at the Fleet Air Arm Museum. place in the heart of many of our loyal enthusiasts and the As aircraft became faster and heavier the supporters and the general public but we generosity of benefactors to The lecture, which was sponsored by the Fly Navy Heritage Trust, was attended by pace of development in carrier aviation don’t underestimate the challenges of raise the money needed to was rapid. The Sea Vixen not only keeping such a magnificent and potent over 400 visitors. “It was a superb turn out embodies ‘big deck’ naval fixed wing aircraft flying.” keep her in superb flying and an outstanding celebration of Winkle’s remarkable achievements” said carrier operations but also the many condition’ Mike Nixon, Chief Executive of the Trust. pioneering new technologies and “We aim to attract similiar levels of Admiral Sir Michael Layard KCB CBE inventions that came with it. support as the Vulcan to the Sky” said President Sea Vixen Team During his visit to RNAS Yeovilton Trustee Michael Ryan, “and we are ‘Winkle’ also took the opportunity to The Sea Vixen also represents a starting to develop and engage with a meet Commander Henry Mitchell, the significant part of the 100 year history of new generation of audiences both on the To donate to the Sea Vixen please new ‘Wings’ at Yeovilton and take part naval aviation – the Cold War - which Air Display circuit and online.” email [email protected] or donate in a classic car photo shoot with Octane lasted from the late 1940s to the 1980s. on line at www.fnht.co.uk or to magazine. The car was a 1939 MG It was an important time for the Fleet Air The Sea Vixen will be operated by Naval Magnette, exactly the same model that join the Sea Vixen Supporters Arm, for in addition to maintaining a Aviation Ltd, a subsidiary of the Fly Navy Eric had owned at the outbreak of the Group please email constant front line readiness to engage Heritage Trust and after a period of deep war when he was a foreign exchange the massive forces of the Warsaw Pact in maintenance is expected to fly again at [email protected] student in Germany. “I was woken up what could be a full scale nuclear war, it RNAS Yeovilton Air Day in 2015. one morning in September 1939 and was a period of huge and demanding told our countries were at war” said Eric. “I was escorted to the Swiss border transition in carrier aviation capability. and drove my MG back to Calais. Sitting behind the wheel again takes me right back! It feels just the same!” The World’s Best The World’s Co-Pilot!

TELEGRAPHIST AIR GUNNERS DEDICATION Fly Navy Heritage Trust Ambassador Heather Bristow, widow of the late helicopter pioneer, Alan Bristow, visited RNAS Five of the last surviving Telegraphist Air Yeovilton in July to spend a day with 702 Naval Air Squadron. Gunners visited the Royal Navy Historic Flight Heather, who was described by Alan Lambert, Heather also visited the Lynx one of the 13 young naval aviators of 825 in September to dedicate a brass plaque of Bristow in his autobiography as ‘the Wildcat Trials Unit and the Royal Navy Naval Air Squadron lost in the Channel fly navy heritage awards remembrance on the step in the rear cockpit World’s Best Co-Pilot’ soon demonstrated Historic Flight. “We were so impressed by Dash in February 1942. Their unsurpassed of the Swordfish where the air gunner stood. her familiarity with the cockpit controls the professionalism and enthusiasm of bravery in the face of insurmountable odds The unique band of Sailor-Airmen carrying out a perfect landing in the Lynx everyone we met” said Heather. The visit is still held up today as one of the finest affectionately known as TAGs, were Simulator. Accompanied by her sister and was especially poignant for Andrew whose examples of the dedication, spirit and responsible for operating the aircraft’s brother-in-law, Moira and Andrew uncle, Sub Lt (A) Robert Parkinson, was ethos of the Fleet Air Arm. for DISTINCTION machine gun and keeping enemy aircraft at bay. This year’s Fly Navy Heritage Trust Awards for Distinction were awarded to Leading Airman Rich Levy and Acting Leading Hand Amy Durand. Royal Naval Air Service swordfish golf The award, which was instituted by Trust Ambassador Keith tournament Knowles and is sponsored by his company Beds and Bars, Everything to play for! recognises and rewards Fleet Air Arm ratings for distinction with a The 2014 Swordfish Golf Emma Wightman, great grand daughter of Vice Admiral Richard Bell Davies VC CB weekend break for two in one of “The bravery of the Telegraphist Air Gunners Tournament at Bowood in DSO AFC, who was awarded the Victoria Cross in 1916, and Captain Eric ‘Winkle’ the company’s hotels or hostels is often forgotten” said Val Sayer, widow of September was a most enjoyable Brown CBE DSC AFC, had much to talk about when they met at a Fly Navy Heritage throughout Europe. the late Les Sayer, who scored the first and successful day raising over torpedo hit on the Bismarck and was Trust dinner in HMS Victory earlier this year. £9,000. This year’s event was Leading Airman Rich Levy received awarded the Distinguished Service Medal. combined with the annual “I felt that I was joining the dots of history the award for his exemplary service AgustaWestland vs Royal Navy “There are very few TAGs still alive now and as we spoke about my Great Grandfather’s in support of RNAS Yeovilton’s fire prevention programme and Leading Hand Amy competition so there was even more the plaque on the TAGs step will ensure that first ever deck landing in his Sopwith Durand, for her outstanding contribution to the critical logistics challenges of the to play for! Teams included Thales, the service and sacrifice of all TAGs is Strutter, and Eric’s record-breaking jet deck Wildcat and Merlin transition programme. Serco, Selex, Vector Aerospace, remembered in the future,” continued Val. landings!” said Emma. MBDA, Lockheed Martin, TDHB and Leading Airman Levy was presented with his award at a ceremony and lunch in In World War II, 2500 TAGs saw active service Saffrey-Champness, as well as in June. Speaking at the presentation, Commodore Jock Alexander OBE, the “My great grandfather was awarded the from the icy North Atlantic to Japan. Over AgustaWestland and the Royal Navy. Commanding Officer of RNAS Yeovilton, said “Leading Airman Levy’s unfailingly VC for the first combat search and rescue 507 TAGs were lost through enemy action positive attitude and dynamic approach to his work stands out as a benchmark of in history, when he rescued a fellow pilot and 69 became Prisoners of War. TAGs were After fierce rivalry on the fairways selfless duty. His personal efforts have totally revised our approach to fire safety.” shot down behind enemy lines in Bulgaria awarded 2 Conspicuous Gallantry Medals, during the Gallipoli campaign. A and greens, with competitive golfers 115 Distinguished Service Medals, 20 British The awards are made three times a year remarkable feat given he was flying a “Three generations of the Bell Davies family keen to ‘Beat the Pro’ and be Empire Medals and 134 Mentions in and Amy was presented with her award biplane modified as a single-seater!” have served in the Royal Navy” said Emma. ‘Nearest to the Pin’ one of the two Despatches while serving in over 77 different in London in September. “I am really “My great grandfather was in the RNAS in Thales teams took the honour of aircraft carriers worldwide. “Like many young aviators in the Royal Naval impressed by the quality of young people the First World War, my grandfather, Vice winning the Swordfish Trophy as the Air Service, my great grandfather has been overall winners. The event, which in the Fleet Air Arm” said Keith Knowles There is an exceptional story behind every Admiral Sir Lancelot Bell Davies in HMS described as ‘inventive’, ‘pioneering’, ‘a bit included an impressive display by “and it is a privilege to give Amy this one of the medals, such as Len Barrick, who Norfolk at the sinking of the Scharnhorst in whacky’, ‘gentle, kind and genuinely the Texan T6 flown by Lt Cdr Chris award. Her drive, focus and capacity mark received a Conspicuous Gallantry Medal for the Second World War, and my uncle, modest’! He flew his planes with all sorts of Götke RN, also saw the Royal Navy her out from her peers, and her initiative guiding his blinded pilot to a safe landing on Captain Richard Bell Davies, served in the home-made improvisations, from using team beat AgustaWestland for the and leadership has made a vital HMS Victorious in a Fulmar of 884 Naval Air Falklands.” Sandow elastic to fix a wing, periscopes for first time in many years! Well done contribution to the effective stores, Squadron and went on to receive the navigation, a length of wool for checking accounting and logistics supply chain of Distinguished Service Medal for bombing “When Eric told me of his early adventures Navy! wind direction and even his belt to improve two major aircraft programmes. Wow operations at Sakishima, and Donald Bunce, in naval flying it was quite a realisation to flying efficiency! He was incredibly Amy, very well done!” who survived the heroic Channel Dash and discover that he is probably one of the few experimental!” was awarded the Conspicuous Gallantry people alive today to have known my great grandfather!” Medal. See our rangeon

of Fly Navy fnht.co.ukMerchandise Sir Peter Harrison KGCN CBE, who through The Peter Harrison Heritage Foundation donated restoration of £200,000 for the restoration of Swordfish W5856, visited The generous donation of £200,000 the Royal Navy Historic Flight from the Peter Harrison Heritage to see progress for himself. Foundation has allowed the Trust to “I am immensely proud to make an important grant to the Royal have been able to save an Chairman thanks Navy Historic Flight for the restoration swordfish aircraft of such national and of Fairey Swordfish W5856 to full flying historical significance” said condition. Sir Peter Harrison Sir Peter.

The aircraft, which was built in 1941 by “The gallant and inspiring story of the Swordfish gripped me as a schoolboy; and by Blackburn Aircraft, is the oldest surviving restoring W5856 and getting her flying again, I am delighted to keep that story of heroic Swordfish Mk 1 in the world. However in and epic achievement alive to help educate and inform modern audiences today.” 2003 she was grounded with corrosion in her wing spars and the first phase of the restoration was to build a new set of wings.

BAE Systems who had very generously restored the aircraft in 1990, again stepped City of Leeds in and new wings were lovingly and painstakingly made by very experienced BAE Systems craftsmen and apprentices at the BAES Brough facility.

Although naval aircraft are designed to withstand the exacting demands of operating at sea, the Swordfish was not built with the expectation of still being airworthy 70 years later and the restoration of W5856 has been a meticulous and time consuming task. w5856

Phase two was to carry out a major The aircraft’s Pegasus engine also needed a service on the fuselage. In order to do complete overhaul and new this the paint had to be pistons and cylinders had to stripped off to check the be specially manufactured. condition of the While the engine was being framework and fabric of reassembled and tested, the the aircraft. This included Swordfish W5856 was adopted by the City of Leeds in 1996 in tribute to the small maintenance team on modern X-ray and local companies who built Swordfish components during WW2 and the Lord the Flight set about fitting the analysis checks, providing Mayor and Lady Mayoress of Leeds, Tom and Edna Murray, visited the Royal wings and rigging the aircraft. an extraordinary level of Navy Historic Flight earlier this year to see her progress. “It took about two weeks to detailed scrutiny not box the wings and get the “People in Yorkshire have a great said Tom. “It will be a proud moment previously possible and tension just right” said affection for the Swordfish and many had indeed when W5856 revisits the City of allowing the remedial work Howard Read, the Chief connections with the Blackburn Aircraft Leeds and we can pay tribute to the vital to be carried out to the Engineer. “Trainees from RNAS factory at Sherburn-in-Elmet where the role the Swordfish fulfilled in the war and very highest standard. Yeovilton also helped provide valuable Swordfish was built,” said Councillor the part the people of Leeds played in this Murray. “Appleyard of Leeds, Tate of chapter of the Fleet Air Arm’s history.” At the end of this stage the additional manpower.” Leeds, Hudswell Clarkes, the Talbot aircraft went into the paint shop and was Garage and many smaller engineering carefully re-doped and repainted in her new “Restoring a beautiful aircraft to such a firms took a great pride in making colour scheme of 820 Naval Air Squadron high standard with very limited components or skinning, riveting or when embarked in HMS Ark Royal during resources is a great achievement,” the pursuit of the Bismarck in the Northern continued Howard. “Everyone on the painting the frame.” Atlantic in WW2. Flight is passionate about our heritage and it was a sheer joy to do.” Over 1,700 Swordfish were built at the Items that had run out of life e.g. flying Blackburn Aircraft factory and the last one control cables, generator, magnetos etc. Swordfish W5856 is expected to take to left the production line in August 1944. were replaced at this stage and at the same the skies again before the end of the “The hours of work, skill and energy that time one or two modern modifications such year and will be re-dedicated as the ‘City went into making these fine and as two VHF radios and a Mode S of Leeds’ at a ceremony in Leeds in 2015. trustworthy aircraft was a labour of love” transponder were also fitted. Ensuring the Legacy of Naval Aviation Lives on

The Fly Navy Heritage Trust annual Legacy Seminar was very well attended this year with over sixty Fleet Air Arm veterans, hearing at first-hand about the different types of legacy and why leaving a gift in your will matters.

Legacy giving is responsible for almost £2 billion being donated to charities in the UK each year, accounting for 12% of all income to the larger charities. This year the Fly Navy Heritage Trust has benefitted from several generous legacies and the response to the professionalism of the Trust’s Legacy Campaign has been exceptional.

Centenary Reception Howard Lee The day included a buffet lunch in the “The whole day was most Wardroom, a visit to the Royal Navy Historic Flight and a Heritage flying display interesting and exceptionally culminating in a formidable display by the well organised. I was able to Trust’s most recent acquisition, the Sea Vixen. go with my son as well, which 1914 - 2014 next year’s was very special.” This year’s 100th Anniversary of the legacy seminar Lt Cdr Ralph Jameson formation of the Royal Naval Air fri 2 oct 2015 VRD RNR Service was marked in style with a Centenary Reception at the Naval and Military Club in London on 1 July. The demand for tickets for Supporters’ Day on 4 October was overwhelming. “We sold The reception, which was jointly out within an hour of going on line” said organised by the Fly Navy Heritage Trust Supporters’ Day Phil Thornton, the Trust’s Events and and the Fleet Air Arm Officers’ Corporate Development Manager. Association, was a great gathering of The day, which is an opportunity for the former and current serving Fleet Air Arm Trust to say thank you to its Supporters, personnel on one of the most auspicious included an update on the Trust’s activities dates in the history of naval flying. and a presentation on the Royal Navy Speaking at the reception Vice Admiral Historic Flight in the morning, followed by a Sir Adrian Johns KCB CBE KStJ ADC said buffet lunch and the opportunity to get up “A hundred years ago today, the close and personal with the aircraft in the fledgling Royal Naval Air Service, which afternoon. “It was a superb day in all started with just 4 pilots at RNAS respects” said Supporter Richard Eastchurch, with their flying training Cunningham. sponsored by a wealthy benefactor, prepared to take the fight to the enemy The Swordfish, Sea Fury FB11 and Sea Vixen in the First World War - and what a story attracted great interest but the highlight of it was! In four short years, the zeal, the day was the stunning formation and ingenuity and bold tactics of the early aerobatics of the T-6 Texan flown by Lt Cdr naval aviators built the Royal Naval Air Chris Götke RN and the Chipmunk, flown Service into the finest naval air arm in by John Beattie MBE, winner of the 2014 the world. By the end of the war, the Honourable Company of Air Pilots Hanna Royal Naval Air Service had 55,000 Trophy for his outstanding contribution to personnel, 3,000 aeroplanes and 103 the art of display flying. airships.” Next year’s Supporters’ Day will be held on Saturday 9 May 2015. To become a Supporter apply on line at www.fnht.co.uk or email [email protected] Lee Howard Lee Outstanding Support The Oily Rag for Sea Fury Recovery The aircraft operated by the Royal Navy Historic Flight are some of the rarest and most historically significant in the world and as the aircraft get ever older, keeping the airframes, engines and instrumentation in full flying condition is increasingly challenging. Maintaining and operating ageing aircraft in a modern military airworthiness environment also presents added difficulties.

“Despite our best efforts the stringent practices we are working to damage to the tail. This is being engineering team faced a perfect at the moment will reap rewards for repaired by the RAF fixed-wing repair storm of challenges this year which many years in the future,” said team 71(IR) Squadron. De Havilland resulted in delay at the start of the Howard. Support, based at Duxford, is display season” said Howard Read, providing the design advice and she is Chief Engineer of the Royal Navy “One of the great advantages of expected to fly again in early 2015. Historic Flight. modern X-Ray and analysis techniques is that the smallest areas of corrosion, “Swordfish LS326 had a series of cracking or other damage can be teething problems with her newly detected and remedied. As a result the reconditioned Pegasus engine and aircraft are scrutinised and maintained regulation mandated by the Military to a very high standard.” Aviation Authority unfortunately delayed the return to flight of the Sea Parts of the Pegasus engine for Fury FB11,” said Howard. Swordfish LS326 have been newly manufactured and she is in as good The post incident recovery and support provided by the Royal Navy “We are taking all measures possible condition as when she was built over and the military generally, following the emergency landing of Sea to improve resilience” said Rear 70 years ago. “The original cylinders Fury T20 G-RNHF at RNAS Culdrose Air Day in July, was absolutely Admiral Russ Harding OBE, Assistant lasted 70 years,” said Howard, “and outstanding. Chief of Naval Staff Aviation, there is no reason why, with tender Amphibious Capability and Carriers, loving care, they shouldn’t last as long “Looking after these With the focus of the investigation outstanding. It was an incredible “including a review of the again! It is painstaking work but beautiful aircraft is centred on the aircraft’s Bristol example of the Royal Navy, civilian maintenance contract, working closer looking after these beautiful aircraft is Centaurus eighteen-cylinder engineers, the wider military and with industry and putting better immensely rewarding. It’s hands-on immensely rewarding, engine, the engine and propeller the charitable trust all working design advisory support in place. We ‘oily rag’ engineering at its most were removed from the aircraft together.” are also trying to source new engines satisfying best!” it’s hands-on ‘oily rag’ after the incident and taken by and build an inventory of spares to engineering at its most road to Weald Aviation in Essex for Fran Renouf, Weald Aviation’s sustain output in the future.” Chipmunk T.10 WK608, the pilot assessment. Deputy Chief Engineer said “It was training and currency workhorse of satisfying best!” a rare and privileged opportunity to “Once the current problems have been the Royal Navy Historic Flight, has also A few weeks later the fuselage, work on a magnificent heritage overcome, the benefits of the been out of action this year due to centre wing section and two outer aircraft and because it was wings followed on three specially something special and different, it adapted low level transporters. was interesting, and everyone really The move was carried out by enjoyed doing it.” the Joint Aircraft Recovery and Transportation Squadron (JARTS), a “The blacksmith at RNAS Culdrose specialist unit dedicated to aircraft made special brackets to secure the post-crash management. In fuselage to one of the low loaders” preparation for the recovery, the continued Fran. “As this sort of unit worked with air engineering equipment is no longer made teams from RNAS Culdrose and anymore we found a drawing in an Weald Aviation to partially strip old aviation publication and made down the large fighter in order to something to fit!” reduce the width of the load for the journey through the narrow “The Sea Fury incident provided Cornish lanes. some unusual opportunities for those involved in her recovery to Speaking of the recovery, Mike test and demonstrate their Nixon OBE, Chief Executive of the professional skills” said Rear Trust, said “The support from RNAS Admiral Ian Tibbitt CBE, Deputy Culdrose, Weald Aviation, JARTS, Chairman of the Trust. “All the 814 Naval Air Squadron and the renowned Fleet Air Arm scientists, naval engineers and engineering skills of problem civilian specialists in 1710 Naval Air solving, technical innovation and Squadron was absolutely adaptability came to the fore.” From the Workshop the From Game Changers

Ambassadors’ Dinner Raises £136,000!

This year’s Ambassadors’ Dinner, held in the spectacular new atrium of the Imperial War Museum in September, raised a magnificent £136,000!

“It was a fantastic achievement” said Mike Nixon OBE, Chief Executive of the The Trust’s Ambassadors’ initiative has gone from strength to strength in Trust. “We rely greatly on the incredible 2014 helping to raise vital funds and lend high profile support. generosity of our Ambassadors and their guests and are extremely grateful for their “Ambassadors make a powerful and The high level engagement of the outstanding support.” positive contribution to the Trust in Trust’s Ambassadors is also greatly many different ways” said Sue Eagles, appreciated by the Royal Navy. The First The dinner, which was attended by HRH the charity’s Campaign Director. Sea Lord Admiral Sir George Zambellas The Duke of York KG, Patron of the Fly KCB DSC ADC DL hosted two events for Both events were a wonderful opportunity, Navy Heritage Trust, was a celebration of “Most of our Ambassadors have a Ambassadors this year, one in the Great not only to say thank you to those the Centenary of the formation of the personal connection with naval aviation Cabin on board HMS Victory and the Ambassadors and benefactors who have Royal Naval Air Service in 1914 and was or aviation generally and their second at Admiralty House, Whitehall, made significant gifts to the Trust, but also to one of the first dinners to be held in the commitment and involvement is including a tour of the historic welcome new Ambassadors to the work of IWM following the opening of the World invaluable to us.” Admiralty Board Room. the Trust. War One Galleries.

The evening was sponsored by Ebullio O N L I N E Capital Management LLP and the Guest Legendary Racing Driver A P P E A L of Honour was Admiral Sir George Zambellas KCB DSC ADC DL, The First Sea Launches Online Appeal Lord and Chief of Naval Staff. One of the Trust’s Ambassadors, legendary motor racing driver Derek Bell MBE has spearheaded an online appeal to get the Sea Fury T20 back in the air.

Derek, who won Le Mans five times, was three times winner of the Daytona 24 and has been World Sports Car Champion twice said “I had the most amazing evening of my life having dinner with the Trust on board HMS Victory. I sat next to Captain Eric ‘Winkle’ Brown. People say racing drivers are brave but you listen to naval aviators like Eric – their fearlessness in combat, flying fast high performance aircraft from carriers gives you an entirely new perspective. I am also full of admiration for Lt Cdr Chris Götke’s skilful and well-judged emergency landing in the Sea Fury T20” continued Derek. “I know only too well that technical problems can and do occur – and incidents like this underline the importance of supporting the Fly Navy Heritage Trust through charitable donations. I am delighted to help raise money to get the Sea Fury flying again and look forward to flying in her myself when she is back in the air again!” champagne by the Trust’s Chief Executive, Mike Nixon. exhilarating!” On stepping out of the aircraft Alan was greeted with a glass of a long dive at 400 mph, roaring in over the runway! It was a lot of fun and very around the Needles, and on the way back we climbed to 4000’ and descended in Alan. “We flew from RNAS Yeovilton doing a wide toloop the Isle of Wight, saw active service in the Sea Fury flying from carriers in the Korean War” said “It was an unforgettable day and I am filled with admiration for all those who in June and took the opportunity to fly in the Sea Fury T20. Fly Navy Heritage Trust Ambassador Alan Rivers visited RNAS Yeovilton SOMETHING GIVE ‘ BACK’ TO A DUTY of the Swordfish crews alive. keep the courage and dedication Fly Navy Heritage Trust, Ihelp back. By being a Supporter ofthe we have a duty to give something service to the nation and Ibelieve gave such trusty and sterling Swordfish radios. The Swordfish was responsible for servicing the Donibristle, Fife, in 1942and based at HMS Merlin, RNAS I was an Air Radio Mechanic proud to bea Supporter. donations to the Trust and am have always made regular War meant somuch to me that I Working on the Swordfish in the a Supporter. speaks of her reasons for being Heritage Trust for many years, donated to the Fly Navy Maureen Ashcott, who has flight! Fury [email protected]” continued Dave. Fly Navy fundraising event please email if you need a ‘Shop in a Box’ pack for your own for Christmas, see our merchandise flier online or morespeed indicators. With new arrivals planned collectablesVixen including altimeters and air iPhone covers and an exciting selection of Sea of weather proof clothing, Fleet Air Arm zig-zag products in recent months, including a new range best sellers. We have also added plenty of new “Polo shirts, baseball caps and models are our said Dave Weatherley, the Trust’s Office Manager. “Sales of merchandise have continued to grow” which has helped increase merchandise sales. The Trust has also recruited many more volunteers this year boosting fundraising and raising profile. stand has attended many major shows and events The Fly Navy Heritage Trust trailer and publicity Sales BoostFundraising Merchandising qualified to work on Swordfish!” very few Technicians in the Royal Navy will be amazing to say that I am one of the working on the new carriers in the future it good practical engineering skills, when I am rewarding” said Jack, “As well as learning “Working with the Flight has been really exactly the same job I was doing!” wings’ – a coincidence, he had been ‘boxing the entry in my grandfather’s name. Even more of through the aircraft archives. There was an out quite by chance when we were looking Derek Roper, had worked on LS326. I found had no idea that my grandfather, Petty Officer Swordfish LS326. When I came to the Flight I have had a brilliant time working on usually get excited about” said Jack “but I “Heritage isn’t something young people earlier. his grandfather had worked on 40 years himself working on the same aircraft that Historic Flight earlier this year, found who was drafted to the Royal Navy Air Engineering Technician Jack Roper heritage isexciting! Royal Navy Historic Flight Commanding Officer Lt Cdr Chris Götke RN Jackson came under fire. He night my friend, Sub Lt Frank said John. “I remember the memories came flooding back” to see the Swordfish and the to the Royal Navy Historic Flight unforgettable day. “I was taken the Atlantic also had an Squadron during the Battle of who served in 825 Naval Air John Darby, a Swordfish veteran Watson. day” said Supporter Ian “My wife and I had a splendid Awards for Excellence. the national Visit England Awards last year and Bronze at South West Tourism Excellence success having won Gold at the visitors, continues to build on its which attracts over 35,000 The award winning airshow, enclosure. lunch in the members’ guests enjoyed a BBQ hog roast and 250 Supporters and their marquee, also drew the crowds entrance to the Trust’s The Sea Fury FB11 at the the Sea Fury T20 a highlight of the flying display. very successful event for the Fly Navy Heritage Trust with RNAS Yeovilton Air Day on 26 July was a bucket donations. raised a significant sum in Volunteer Charlotte Thornton members of the public and boxes of Sea Fury models for Götke still found time to sign weekend, her pilot, Lt Cdr Chris major airshows the same Despite flying at two other days later. at RNAS Culdrose Air Day five before suffering engine failure her last displays of the season which sadly was to be one of thrilling and exciting display, The Sea Fury T20 gave a Nixon with a donation for £100. Trust’s Chief Executive, Mike Branch also presented the HMS Conway Trust South West Captain Philip Jackson of the service.” the Wildcat is brought into will be re-commissioned when I am delighted to learn that 825 proud of our old Squadron and killed. We were of course very Telegraphist Air Gunner was had a narrow escape. His

RNAS Yeovilton Air Day Conservation Costs Volunteers Needed

Sue Eagles, The Trust’s Campaign Director, We are looking for volunteers to On why every penny counts assist with events, provide support groups for different Sue, who joined the Trust in 2010, is aircraft types, help in the office widely recognised as a leading or man the trailer at Air Shows communications specialist with a around the country. These tasks wealth of experience in high level air shows and events around the country don’t take up enormous amounts policy arenas in the military, industry is an exciting and dynamic way for of time but they make a huge and the media. In her role as the everyone to share that heritage and difference to raising awareness, Trust’s Campaign Director she is experience history in a contemporary way. spreading the word and raising responsible for development of the With HMS Queen Elizabeth and HMS money to keep our Naval Trust’s fundraising, marketing and Prince of Wales coming into service there Aviation Heritage in the public communications campaign and is great excitement about the F35 eye. If you have some spare time engaging with the Trust’s multiple Lightning and the next step in the history and would like to help, please supporters and stakeholders. of naval flying. give us a call on 01935 842005 or Which of the aircraft you support Given the support you receive email us at [email protected] is most special to you? from your Ambassadors, how Each aircraft represents a different era in would you answer a Supporter Ringtail to Retail the Fleet Air Arm’s history. However, if I asking: ‘Why do you still need had to choose it would be the Hawker more from me?’ A new hangar is being built at the former RNAS Sea Fury. The Sea Fury is the pinnacle of Every penny counts to us. As a charity we Burscough, HMS Ringtail, in piston-engined fighter design and was raise money in a wide range of ways from Lancashire, as part of a retail one of the most successful and popular fundraising events to legacies. Those who development that aims to aircraft operated by the post war Fleet Air give to us annually are just as important commemorate the region’s Arm. It was combat-proven too and the as those who make larger gifts. Every historic links with the Fleet Air Arm during nostalgic thunder of the Sea Fury’s engine amount of support at every level makes a the Second World War. when she soars over the airfield could not real difference and is greatly appreciated. The building, which has been designed to be a more powerful brand signature for If you would like to donate please send a resemble a WW2 aircraft hangar, will the Royal Navy’s aviation heritage. cheque made payable to ‘The Fly Navy become a Booths supermarket and the Heritage Trust’ or visit fnht.co.uk/make-a- development has been called the Ringtail How much does your team donation.html Retail Park in tribute to the former Royal raise each year? Naval Air Station that played a vital role in We have to raise at least £700,000 a year How our funds add up the latter years of the Battle of the to support the operational costs of the The Fly Navy Heritage Trust depends on Atlantic in 1939-45. aircraft and ensure that we can pay for many different groups and individuals for Lawrence Critchley from the Lathom and spares to sustain them. Engines are vital. donations but one of our most important Burscough Military Heritage Society, who We rely on major gifts for these large sources of income is from you - our has been instrumental in preserving the items and are very grateful to the Supporters. Without you we simply heritage of the site, said “We are individuals and corporate companies who couldn’t keep the Fly Navy flag flying. delighted at the sensitive way Booths has make substantial donotations. We are embraced the history of the Naval Air Squadrons that were based here.” absolutely reliant on their support.

Why do people support you? HMS Ringtail was commissioned in 1943 THANK with more than 40 Naval Air Squadrons The Royal Naval Air Service and Fleet Air using the Royal Naval Air Station for Arm played an important part in the training prior to embarking in carriers. history of our country. Our donors understand this - and know that keeping YOU Fly Navy Heritage Trust the Royal Navy’s historic aircraft flying at Room 112 Unicorn House RNAS Yeovilton Ilchester, BA22 8HW Legacy Appeal 01935 842005/849200 Email [email protected] Leaving a gift in your will is an easy way for your generosity to last beyond your own lifetime and benefit future generations. If you would like to leave a gift in fnht.co.uk your will please email [email protected] or call 01935 849200. royalnavyhistoricflight.org.uk