SMGWA Will Be Buzzing with Remote-controlled Aircraft from Across Aviation History

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The skies above Stow Maries Great War Aerodromewill be buzzing on Saturday 12September, as the nation's model aircraft enthusiasts gather to put their incredible flying machines through their paces at the Large Model Air Show.

Representing every period of aviation history – from early biplanes right through to modern jets – these incredibly detailed, large-scale models capture the whole of aviation history in a single family-friendly show.

Visitors can enjoy the sights and sounds of these impressive remote-controlled model aircraft, many the size of a family car and costing up to £25,000+ each, soaring and swooping above the World War One site. Piloted from the ground by skilled operators, some of the aircraft will be strictly imitating their full-size cousins in flight, while others will be performing aerobatics and precision manoeuvres that appear to defy the laws of gravity.

Model aircraft will be lined up on the ground awaiting their turn to take to the air, while visitors can also enjoy a close look at a selection of land-based models, including military vehicles and tanks on the ground.

In between enjoying the ground and air activities, visitors can enjoy burgers and hotdogs from the barbecue, washed down with a cold beer from Datum Attitude brewery, which specialises in aviation-themed craft beers, or take a breather in The Airmen's Mess café for hot and cold meals, snacks and cakes throughout the day. Admission tickets to the Large Model Air Show also include full access to the Museum's exhibition spaces, art gallery, interactive simulators and children's pedal planes, along with the gift shop and book shop. Guided tours will take guests around the aircraft hangars to learn more about early aviation.

The Large Model Air Show offers a great day out for the whole family and tickets are already selling fast – so to be sure of seeing these amazing models, please buyin advance. Costs have been frozen at 2025 prices, with adults £15, children aged 6-15 & concessions £8, age 0-5 free, and family ticket £39.99 (plus a small booking fee). Any remaining tickets will be available on the gate.

Doug Shorter, Operations Supervisor of Stow Maries Great War Aerodrome, comments: "This exciting event has grown over the past few years and is a fantastic day out for the whole family. Visitors can enjoy seeing the large model aircraft in action above the Aerodrome right through the day from 10am to close of play at 4pm, plus ground exhibits ranging from model boats to miniature traction engines. We look forward to seeing you here!"

2/… Stow Maries Great War Aerodrome's late summer programme continues on Saturday 19 September with Words Without Wires in association with Essex HMVA (Historic Military Vehicle Association). Featuring military vehicles and living historians, this event focuses on the history of communications and ties in with one of the Museum's popular permanent exhibitions.

The following Saturday, 26 September, sees the Late Summer Fly-in, when pilots of light aircraft enjoy reduced landing fees and admission to the Museum and visitors can enjoy spotting the dozens of aircraft which come and go throughout the day.

On non-event days, Stow Maries Great War Aerodrome, Hackman's Lane, Purleigh CM3 6RN is open on Friday, Saturday and Sunday, 10am to 4pm, until 6 December, with fascinating exhibition halls, historic aircraft, interactive flight simulators, pedal planes and more, to keep every member of the family happy. Please note there is a site-wide closure on Friday 4 September for a private hire. For further details and online booking, visit www.stowmaries.org.uk.

-ENDS-NB Accompanying images are taken from previous events and are representative only. For more information contactcomms@stowmaries.org.uk