Remote Controlled Aircraft Amaze Crowds with Manoeuvres Over SMGWA

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A packed crowd gathered on Saturday 12 September for the Large Model Air Show at Stow Maries Great War Aerodrome.This annual event sees the nation's model aircraft enthusiasts turn out in force to put their remote-controlled aircraft through their paces in the skies above the World War One aerodrome.

The finely detailed models, representing aircraft from World War One biplanes to modern jets, performed aerobatic and precision manoeuvres to the delight of around 500 visitors. Controlled by their skilled pilots from the ground, the models – some as large as family cars and costing in excess of £20,000 – put on a terrific display of precision and speed. As well as the excitement in the air, ground activities from miniature steam engines and tanks to a barbecue and bar, kept everyone entertained throughout the day.

Doug Shorter, Operations Supervisor of Stow Maries Great War Aerodrome, comments: "Visitors to the Large Model Air Show were treated to an exciting demonstration of the skill of these ground-based pilots. The flying was superbly co-ordinated, ensuring that as soon as one remote-controlled aircraft was landing another was taking off, making for a seamless continuous spectacle throughout the day. At times it was difficult to remember that these were not full-sized aircraft with pilots on board."

The final air event of the season at Stow Maries will be the Late Summer Fly-In on Saturday 26 September, but there are still plenty of other activities to look forward to at the Accredited Museum. Next Saturday, 19 September, Words Without Wires: The Story of Military Communications will bring together military vehicles, living historians and amateur radio enthusiasts to tell the story of military communication through the ages. Organised in association with Essex Historic Military Vehicle Association and complementing the museum's fascinating permanent exhibition Words Without Wires, the event will allow visitors to handle vintage radio equipment and explore historic Armed Forces vehicles.Then, on Friday 9 October, Frontline: Faces and Spaces is a day to delve deeper into the history of the Great War, with three fascinating guest speakers and a chance to get up close to the Museum's historic aircraft and objects.

On non-event days, Stow Maries Great War Aerodrome, Hackman's Lane, Purleigh CM3 6RN is open every Friday, Saturday and Sunday, 10am to 4pm, until 6 December (except 9 October), with fascinating exhibition halls, historic aircraft, interactive flight simulators, pedal planes and more, to keep every member of the family happy. The Airmen's Mess café serves food throughout the day. For further details and online booking for all events, visit www.stowmaries.org.uk.

-ENDS-Please credit images to Martin Johnson or Terry Stone as marked/SMGWA. For more information or images contactcomms@stowmaries.org.uk