This week the High Sheriff, Jacque Gazzard, rediscovered the “joy of flying”, albeit virtually, flying round the island when she visited the Wight Aviation Museum.
Former pilot Jacque, admitted “it’s at least 25 years since I did some flying!” as she climbed into the cockpit of the Beagle Bulldog “Virtual Reality” Flight Simulator and was immediately impressed.
She said,
“Oh my gosh, that’s fantastic, the plane really does follow the controls! I love it”
Guided tour
She was visiting Wight Aviation Museum to find out more about the rich and diverse heritage of aviation and aerospace on the Isle of Wight. She was given a guided tour by the enthusiastic volunteers of the WAM Team.
Paul Carey talked to her about the Skeeter helicopter, one of the museum’s largest exhibits.
Then Grahame Smith, a former GKN employee, guided her through the heritage of the Saunders Roe “Princess” flying boat of the early 1950s right up to date with the many parts still manufactured by GKN for modern aircraft.
Gazzard: It’s sheer delight
The High Sheriff was very impressed with the museum and what the WAM Team have achieved, saying,
“This is an incredible collection! People, with any interest or not in aircraft, should come and see the depth of the collection. It’s sheer delight! All the volunteers should be very proud of what has been achieved!”
Towards the end of her visit the High Sheriff was presented with a very personal memento, by Perry Clifton, Senior Archivist of WAM, a framed picture of her Aunt Barbara, as a child, presenting a bouquet of flowers at the Opening Ceremony of the Isle of Wight Flying Club in July 1930.
She also received a Flight Certificate for her trip in the Beagle Bulldog Virtual Reality Flight Simulator.
Blake: It’s wonderful to have prestigious visitors
Helen Blake, chair person of WAM enthused,
“I’m very pleased that the High Sheriff enjoyed her visit so much.
“It’s wonderful to have prestigious visitors such as the High Sheriff and for her to appreciate our work.”
Find out more
For more information about the museum or possibly volunteering at WAM please email “2025
Season” to [email protected] or phone or text to 07949 704052 or visit our website.
News shared by Brian on behalf of Wight Aviation Musueum. Ed
