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Foundation History 1971 - Present Day

Remembrance Day Is Everyday

1st February 2015 High Ground Wreck Collection Preservation

Following our acquisition of a High Ground Wreck collection back in 2014, the opportunity had arisen for us to obtain another large collection of historic interest, thanks to John Ownsworth. This collection began as far back as the 1960s, an impressive preservation achievement by a dedicated group of guys with an interest in aviation. This was a large collection and our hope was to be able to make these items available for public viewing, this we have now achieved along with some items still retained in the society’s remembrance collection. Those involved in creating this collection, include, John Ownsworth, Jim Chatterton, Alan Jones, and the late Martin (Sef) Johnson.

(Right) John Ownsworth on Broomhead Moor in 1981, with the remains of Wellington DV810, that crashed on 9-12-42 (All seven crew survived)

Aviation Archaeology & Crash Investigations

1st April 2017 - North American Sabre F.Mk 4s XD707 & XD730 display at Coalhouse Fort.

High Ground Wreck Exhibits at Coalhouse Fort until its closure . Sabre exhibit relating to the collision of XD707 and XD730 

Back in 2015 we reported on the acquisition of a High Ground Wreck collection by our webmaster Alex, to assure its preservation. The opportunity had arisen for us to obtain a large collection of historic interest thanks to John Ownsworth. The collection began as far back as the 1960s, an impressive preservation achievement by a dedicated group of guys with an interest in aviation. Those involved in creating this collection, include, John Ownsworth, Jim Chatterton, Alan Jones, and the late Martin (Sef) Johnson. Our hope was to make this large collection of items available for public viewing. This now constructed thanks to the work of Elliot Smock, with the support of The Thames Aviation Museum, housed at the historic Coalhouse Fort, Tilbury, Essex. The High Ground Wreck Collection joins the recovered aircraft exhibits already displayed by the group, these along with other exhibits relating to this historic fort on the Thames, along with its known paranormal activity, made this a compelling site to visit for anyone with an historical interest.

Right -  The display at, The Thames Aviation Museum, Coalhouse Fort, Tilbury, Essex (2017).

Update - (Sabre collection safely in the hands of Elliot, currently in storage. 2026)

Aircraft Preservation & Restoration

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