Thousands become part of Vulcan history

THOUSANDS of aviation enthusiasts have become part of history by having their names inscribed on plaques fitted to the wings of the famous Vulcan bomber.

The nameplates were unveiled as part of the 10th anniversary of the triumphant return of Vulcan XH558 bomber to the sky in October 2007.

Organised by custodians the Vulcan to the Sky Trust, formerly based in Hinckley, now in Nuneaton, the campaign attracted interest from around the world.

A spokesman for the trust said: “There has been huge interest in this initiative, with many people adding the names of loved ones as well as their own names, and the names of someone special in memoriam.

“We have had support from across Britain, and indeed, from all around the world, recognising XH558 as a much-loved aircraft.”

The trust also marked the anniversary by broadcasting a timeline of events across social media from the relaunch date in 2007 and issuing a newsletter with the images.

It was estimated that she was seen by some 24 million people during that remarkable time.

High resolution images of the plaques are also being made available.

Dr Robert Pleming, who led the restoration project, said: “Vulcan XH558 can still play a very important role as an icon of our aeronautic heritage but also as a beacon for other heritage aviation projects, as plans progress for a new hangar at Doncaster Sheffield Airport.

“This will give the aviation community and the wider public unrivalled access to living aircraft, with the exciting vision of a restoration and operating facility that will keep other heritage aircraft not only on display but airborne and appearing at air displays in the years to come.

“Once XH558 is settled in her new home, VTST will turn its attention to the restoration of Canberra WK163 and we are already considering the operation of other loaned aircraft on the display circuit next year.”

The Vulcan was a familiar sight in the skies above Leicestershire taking part in the Cosby Airshow on several occasions as well as flying over several local airfields.

Anyone who has taken part and who wishes to confirm their names are included can visit www.tinyurl.com/WingNameList