A statue depicting the pilot of a Vickers Wellington has been officially unveiled in Nottinghamshire
The launch of this eye-catching new tribute is the culmination of a 12-year community project. The life-like depiction was unveiled at a well-attended ceremony on Sunday April 23 at the former RAF Newton site in Nottinghamshire.
The original concept design was drawn up by well-known aviation artist and author Timothy O’Brien, and crafted by award-winning sculptor Tom Nicholls. The opening ceremony was expected to be attended by over 400 guests, with many veterans travelling from all over the UK to see their former airfield. The event was scheduled to feature a parade of 100 personnel from the RAF Air Cadets and East Midlands Universities Air Squadron, led by an RAF Air Cadet marching band.
The memorial is dedicated to everyone who served at RAF Newton from 1940 to 2001. The airfield played an important role during World War Two and the Cold War. The wartime pilot symbolizes all British, Commonwealth and Polish aircrew who served at the base during conflict.
Ryan O’Sullivan, Sales Director at Redrow East Midlands which has backed the initiative, said: “We’re delighted to unveil a new statue at Newton Garden Village. Here at Redrow East Midlands, we love to support local projects, so we are pleased to be funding the memorial of a World War Two airman with his dog. We believe this will bring to life the history of Newton Garden Village and help to commemorate the area’s important aviation background."
