15 Sep 07 - Cadets put the "Wings" into the Wings Appeal
While most Air Cadet units around the country were out collecting donations for the Royal Air Force Association this weekend as part of their annual Wings Appeal, Ripon Air Cadets were out in style with a replica of a World War II Spitfire in tow.
The Mark Vb Spitfire was built to 98% scale by the Ripon branch of the Royal British Legion and took ta year to construct. It is the only one of its kind and was designed so that the general public are able to sit inside and have their picture taken. It has been to several events since its launch in June, and was loaned to the RAFA for the Wings Appeal.
"The most touching moments have been when widows of Second World War pilots can come and sit inside the plane that their husbands flew. For many of them it's the first time they've been able to get that close to the environment in which their loved ones spent their final minutes. When they see the plane it brings back a lot of memories." said Howard Whiting, the President of the RBL Ripon branch.
In the morning, the cadets helped to attach the wings, tail and propeller blades before continuing with their collection duties, or manning the Spitfire attraction. Before arriving in her uniform, one of our own cadets, Cdt Seager, came to the Spitfire and paid to have her photo taken. The cadets managing the Spitfire attraction at the time, Sgt Thornton and Cdt Flavell, were pleasantly surprised when they saw her queuing to get into the replica.
The day was an overall success. Collection tins alone made well over £300. The money made by the Spitfire replica has not yet been announced, but we are hoping for a good total. Many thanks go out to those who helped on the day, and to all those who gave money to support the RAF Association.
