A GROUP of aviation enthusiasts is set to fly in to Burtonwood Heritage Centre at Gulliver’s World to explore the fascinating history of the former airfield.
The Wirral Aviation Society will visit the centre built on the site of RAF Burtonwood, once the largest airfield in Europe, on Wednesday, April 27.
The heritage centre, a donation-based charity, offers guided tours, educational packages and presentations to learn about the men and women who served at the base through displays, films and military memorabilia.
The centre also has a cockpit experience of a C54 Skymaster as used in the Berlin Airlift.
The Wirral Aviation Society, which celebrates its 25th anniversary this year, has about 30 members, including aviation enthusiasts, historians and artists and several ex-military personnel.
They include former RAF pilot Squadron Leader Eric Robinson OBE, who recently celebrated his 100th birthday.
The society visit airshows and airfields across the country and have regular speakers on different aspects of aviation. Members from Speke Aerodrome Heritage Group, a partner organisation of the society, will also join the visit to Burtonwood Heritage Centre.
Society secretary, Gordon Hodgson, said: “We’ve talked about visiting Burtonwood Heritage Centre for a couple of years so we’re glad to finally be making it happen.
“We know a bit about its background as a huge American Air Force base. I’m interested in World War Two aviation history and so are some of the others so I think it will be a really interesting day.”
John Cotterill, from Burtonwood Heritage Centre, said: “We’re really looking forward to welcoming The Wirral Aviation Society to the heritage centre.
“We are always excited to share some of the fascinating stories of the centre with visitors of all ages and interests. While it is not necessary to enter Gulliver’s World to gain access to the centre, a visit to the centre is included with a ticket to the park, offering you the option to extend the family fun.”
The entrance to the centre is on Gulliver’s World car park. The centre is typically open from 2.30pm to 5pm Wednesday to Sunday, although it is possible to arrange visits outside these hours.
For more information, please visit: www.rafburtonwoodheritagecentre.co.uk
