Photos taken from https://www.lincsaviation.co.uk/ . We hope to add some of our own images after the Association’s visit in October.
Nestled in the heart of East Kirkby, Lincolnshire, the Lincolnshire Aviation Heritage Centre stands as one of Britain’s most evocative war museums—a place where history roars to life and personal sacrifice is etched into every rivet and runway. Founded in 1988 by brothers Fred and Harold Panton, the museum is more than a collection of aircraft and artifacts; it’s a deeply personal memorial to their elder brother, Pilot Officer Christopher Panton, who was killed during a bombing raid over Nuremberg in 1944.
A Mission Rooted in Memory
The Centre’s origin story is one of love, loss, and legacy. Christopher Panton served as a Flight Engineer with the Royal Canadian Air Force’s 433 Squadron. On the night of 30/31 March 1944—Bomber Command’s infamous “Black Friday”—his Halifax bomber was shot down over Germany, claiming five of the eight crew members. Decades later, Fred and Harold, successful poultry farmers, sought to honour their brother’s memory by acquiring a WWII aircraft. Their journey led them to Avro Lancaster NX611, affectionately named “Just Jane,” which became the heart of the museum.
What Awaits Visitors?
The Lincolnshire Aviation Heritage Centre is housed on the former RAF East Kirkby airfield, once home to No. 57 and No. 630 Squadrons. Today, it offers a rich tapestry of exhibits that immerse visitors in the life and legacy of Bomber Command:
- Avro Lancaster NX611 “Just Jane”: One of the few surviving Lancasters, currently undergoing restoration to full airworthiness. Visitors can witness taxi runs and restoration work up close.
- DH Mosquito HJ711: Another iconic aircraft on display, showcasing the engineering marvels of the era.
- Original Control Tower: Restored to reflect its wartime operations, offering a glimpse into the nerve centre of RAF missions.
- RAF Escape Museum: A poignant tribute to the RAF Escaping Society and those who aided downed airmen in occupied Europe.
- Memorial Chapel: A solemn space listing the names of 848 aircrew and ground crew lost from RAF East Kirkby.
- Hampden Restoration Project: A rare look at early Bomber Command history, including Vickers Wellington wings.
- Home Front Exhibits: Explore wartime civilian life through displays on rationing, the Land Army, ARP Wardens, and more.
- Vehicles and Uniforms: From wartime trucks to authentic RAF attire, these artifacts bring the era vividly to life.
More Than a Museum
What sets the Centre apart is its emotional resonance. It’s not just a place to learn—it’s a place to feel. The Panton brothers’ dedication has created a space where personal stories and national history converge, preserving the legacy of those who served with dignity and depth.
Whether you’re an aviation enthusiast, a military historian, or simply someone seeking to understand the human cost of war, the Lincolnshire Aviation Heritage Centre offers a powerful and unforgettable experience. It’s a living memorial, a classroom of courage, and a sanctuary of remembrance.
For more details on visiting, exhibits, and events, you can explore the Centre’s official website.