On December 28-29 last year, the Shuttleworth Collection at Old Warden, Bedfordshire, opened the doors of its engineering workshop, allowing visitors a rare look behind the scenes.
Enthusiasts were able to observe several aircraft at various stages of maintenance, and to discuss the work with engineers. Exhibits included Shuttleworth’s Westland Lysander, Gloster Gladiator, Supermarine Spitfire Mk.Vc and Bristol Fighter – the latter undergoing a complete rebuild – while Sopwith Pup ‘9917’ (equipped with dummy Le Prieur Rockets) and resident Bristol Scout ‘1264’ both performed engine runs.
In 2019, Shuttleworth engineers completed 32 annual inspections, 11 check flights, 37 Permit/Certificate Renewals and five three-yearly ‘D’ check inspections. Alongside this, the team has undertaken numerous assessments and work programmes on a variety of engines, including the Hawker Hind’s Rolls-Royce Kestrel and the Hawker Tomtit’s Armstrong Siddeley Mongoose. Around £75,000 has been spent on spares and materials for the fleet in the past year – a figure that includes £16,000 on fuel. www.shuttleworth.org
