Wednesday 7 October 2009

Bentely Priory Revisited


     
      Once again, the RAF Bentley Priory Battle of Britain Trust had an event at Bentley Priory in Stanmore, with the mission to raise public awareness of the situation, to allow the general public to view the historic site, and to raise funds for its restoration. We were there for the second two days, offering twisted balloons and face painting. Our son, Jerry, also worked hard to help prepare the venue for two full days before the event.
      On Saturay, 12th September, alone, about 3000 people attended, of all generations. One of the events of the day were a spitfire and a hurricane plane flying overhead. Crowds cheered as they flew past. Squadron leader Erica Ferguson said: "Everyone was standing on the lawn to see the rather spine-chilling and exhilarating evernt that was the planes flying by. It was so moving to see tears in the eyes of the older generation who lived through the experiences of this time.

      On Thursday and Friday, hourly tours of 40 people got to visit the historic rooms and corridors where Air Chief Marshal Sir Hugh Dowding masterminded the defence of the country during the Battle of Britain.
Saturday and Sunday Dowding's office and other areas return to their former glory with an historical re-enactment. Harrow and Bushey museums had stalls demonstrating life in the two areas during the war, and there was also a map of local bomb damage during the Blitz.


                                                          An American jeep and supplies.


Downding's Office


David Tried Out an Old Gun


This Austin was Fully Functional!


Face Painting in the Spirit of the Day



The RAF and Great Britain Flag





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