Tim Webster leads the pack along the main runway in his Range Rover TAC-R2
Deenethorpe Airfield, near Oundle,
Northants, was home to the USAAF's 401st Bombardment Group (Heavy) but is
shortly to be developed and turned into a new garden village.
To mark its demise, Tim Webster, supported
by other members of the MVT’s South East Midlands Area and other MV owners, got
permission for one last visit before the runway crushers move in.
Despite constant icy rain and a chill wind,
nearly 60 MVs turned up on Saturday, April 28, for the Farewell to Deenethorpe
event.
A short "drumhead" service was
held, with Tim Cross’s Jeep used as a pulpit, and attended by the local Royal
British Legion and serving members of the USAF, RAF and Air Cadets. Then
followed a tour of the perimeter track, once used by B-17 Flying Fortresses
before a spectacular drive along the remaining runway.
Plans for the old airfield include a village green, shops and
community hall, as well as more than 1,000 homes. Pictures by Peter Clarke, Tim Cross, Kevin Lamberth and Vaughn Glyn
Graham Butlin has uploaded several videos to You Tube. To find them, Google You Tube Deenethorpe and look for the most recent files.
These Pulse Ambulances both served with the Parachute Regiment