RAF Cosford’s Battle of Britain commemoration weekend

Monday 12th September 2011, 3:00PM BST.

Visitors were able to sit in a Spitfire cockpit as part of the Battle of Britain commemorations at the Royal Air Force Museum, Cosford

More than 2,000 visitors turned out to enjoy a Battle of Britain commemorative weekend at Shropshire’s RAF Cosford.

A Spitfire flyby was cancelled because of high winds, but bosses at the airbase said people still turned out in droves to enjoy a host of other activities and entertainment.

Michelle Worthington, spokeswoman for the museum, said: “It was a shame about the flight being cancelled but 2,500 people still turned out to take part in the celebration.”

She added: “We had working demonstrations of Merlin and Griffon engines and a chance to see how a World War Two ops room operated.

“There was also a land army re-enactment group digging a wartime garden as well as farm animals brought along as part of the experience.

“A main highlight was a question and answer session with Battle of Britain veterans. There were some remarkable tales to be heard.”

Museum chiefs also gave people the chance to sit inside a replica Spitfire complete with flying jacket and goggles.

Also on display were a range of 1940s military vehicles and a Guild of Aviation Artists exhibition displaying 51 paintings themed around the Battle of Britain.

For further information about the museum call (01902) 376200 or visit www.rafmuseum.org

View more: Raf Cosford news.