Grateful thanks as stranger comes to aid of cancer victim

A Dundee cancer victim has received a replica of one of science fiction’s most iconic spaceships thanks to a model maker working on Thunderbirds creator Gerry Anderson’s new show.

Ronnie Dignan, 56, from Charleston, was diagnosed with terminal cancer this year. A keen model maker, he asked for help in finishing a model of the Swift spaceship from Space 1999.

The 1970s TV series was the last produced by Gerry and Sylvia Anderson, who had created iconic shows such as Thunderbirds and Captain Scarlet.

Although the show was live action it was renowned for the quality and design of the models used for its spaceships.

However, Ronnie was unable to complete the model and asked for help among Dundee’s model-making community. Donald Suttie from Dundee read the appeal and although he did not have time to complete the model, put Ronnie in touch with Rob Carson from Berwick-upon-tweed.

Rob helped create a submarine for a new show created by Gerry Anderson called Firestorm. Although Gerry died in 2012, his son Jamie procured the rights.

Not only did Rob complete the model, he also brought along a 44-inch model of the Eagle spaceship used in the show.

Ronnie said: “I know Donald from Dundee but had never met Rob. It’s amazing. I am really grateful.”

Ronnie Dignan and Rob Carson with the model spaceship.