Who can fill in gaps on former Naval site?
ALOCAL historian is asking people to help him solve the mystery of an old site in West Lancashire.
Lawrence Critchley is keen to hear memories about the old Naval Engine Holding Unit, in Burscough.
The venture grew from the former HMS Ringtail Royal Naval Air Station.
But, while the history of the former World War II airbase is well documented and much celebrated - what came next is not so clear.
Now Mr Critchley is urging people to reveal the mysteries behind the Naval Engine Holding Unit.
He said: “After Royal Naval Air Station Burscough closed in 1946 for flying with the last squadron leaving on the third of May, the station was reduced to the status of care and maintenance.
“Thereafter, the former HMS Ringtail was taken over by Naval Air Station Stretton (Warrington) as a sub-site known as a Naval Engine Holding Unit. Aircraft engines were both stored and serviced there. There were a number of Navy personnel based there at the time as well.
“The Royal Navy finally gave up the station in 1957 and the grassed areas reverted to agriculture again. In later years, the now industrial estate was built on parts of the site.
“Much is known about the history of HMS Ringtail during its World War Two operational years, 1943-1946, but little is known about the site’s post-war years and, in particular, the Engine Holding unit and what was going on there?
“It is known that people worked there and it would be wonderful if anyone had any stories of their time there of pictures that would help to fill a gap in the knowledge of the former Burscough Naval Air Station.”
If you think you can help, or know anyone who can, please contact Lawrence Critchley at Fairlawn, 235 Liverpool Road, Rufford, L40 1SD or email LolCritchley@aol.com, or phone 07484 678 297 after 5pm.
For more information on HMS Ringtail, visit the website: www.hms-ringtail.org.uk