Fascinating Guest Speakers Explore the Legacy of WW1 at SMGWA

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Stow Maries Great War Aerodrome is holding a closed-site, whole-day event exploring aspects of the legacy of World War One, with a fascinating line-up of guest speakers. The Museum and The Airmen’s Mess café will be closed to the public during Frontline: Legacy on Friday 10 October giving attendees unrivalled access to the Museum and time for object handling sessions as well as the high-quality seminar programme.

The three talks during the day are:
The Work of the Commonwealth War Graves Commission by Neil Richardson. Following nearly a decade in the RAF, Richardson took his skills to the civilian aviation industry, now focusing on safety. Since 2021, he has been an active volunteer and guest speaker for the Commonwealth War Graves Commission. His talk will include some less well-known sites and more local examples.

Sophie’s Adventure by Gerard Lohan. After a career encompassing everything from acting to science, Lohan joined the Aviation Preservation Society Scotland and its project to build “Sophie”, a full-sized flying Sopwith 1-1/2 Strutter. After documenting the project for 12 years, he recounts the twists and turns along the way, in a story as inspirational as it is dramatic.

Airborne in the Shadow of Von Richthofen by Richard Vary. Part of the Tiger Club’s Turbulent Display Team that recently appeared at the Stow Maries Air Show, Vary owns and operates G-DREI, a replica of 425/17, one of two red triplanes flown by Baron Von Richthofen. He will explore the technical side of flying it and how it differs from modern aircraft.

The event, compered by renowned local historian Stephen Nunn, will include a behind-the-rope tour of the aircraft hangars, object handling, book signings and a delicious buffet lunch in The Airmen’s Mess. The day runs from 9am to 5pm and tickets cost £30 (must be pre-booked). More information on the speakers and online booking can be found at www.stowmaries.org.uk/events.

Ian Flint, Chief Executive Officer of Stow Maries Great War Aerodrome, comments: “We are really looking forward to this year’s Frontline, which explores how the work and activities of the Great War still resonate today. With talks ranging from the tribulations of recreating a World War One aircraft (from the drawing board to the first flight) to the challenges of operating one in an aeronautical display, this promises to be a fascinating day.”

Stow Maries Great War Aerodrome, Hackman’s Lane, Purleigh CM3 6RN normally opens to the public every Friday, Saturday and Sunday, 10am to 4pm, until Sunday 7 December.