Hixon History Society

Last month James Robson talked about his work at RAF Cosford. James went to school at Hednesford where he had a particular interest in history. He then went to Birmingham University and got a degree in History. On finishing his education in 2023, he found full time employment at the museum. James has also spent time at MOD Stafford helping to dismantle and transport equipment to Cosford RAF Cosford opened in 1938 as an aircraft maintenance, storage and technical training station. During the Second World War it trained 70,000 airmen in engine, airframe and armament trades and also contained a Hospital. The Museum opened in 1979 and includes several developmental aircraft such as those that led to the English Electric Lightning. It also houses the only two surviving Vickers Wellingtons left in the world. And it is this plane that James is enthralled with. The Wellington bomber was designed using the geodetic construction principles developed by Barnes Wallis which was a metallic criss-cross frame. It was very strong but also light-weight and 11,000 Wellingtons were produced. James said that it had a reputation of getting you home, even if it was on fire! Another of his favourites is the Mosquito which is made of wood and is actually faster than the Spitfire! The Cold War Exhibition awas opened on 7 February 2007 by former PM Baroness Thatcher and HRH Princess Anne. Exhibits include the only collection of three V bombers (Valiant, Victor and Vulcan) in the same place in the world. Admission to RAF COSFORD is free every day from 10.00am but you need to pay for parking! At busy times Pre-booking is necessary. On Tuesday July 7th our meeting at Hixon Memorial Hall, starting at 8.00pm, will feature a talk by Charlotte Ball The Saint and the Viking.

All meetings start at 8-00pm. 

The fee is £2-00 per person. All welcome. 

John Egginton