Tuesday 14th November 2023
Supporters of Vulcan XH558 can buy a Christmas gift that will honour the past and see them be part of the future of the iconic aircraft.
The Vulcan to the Sky Trust (VTST), the charity responsible for XH558, the last airworthy Vulcan that stopped flying in 2015, is giving people the opportunity to have their name placed under the bomb-bay doors of the aircraft.
Marc Walters, chief executive of VTST, said:
“This aircraft means so much to so many people, either because they have a family connection to the aircraft or because they have seen and heard her fly.
“This Christmas people have the chance to have their name on XH558 and become part of her history. Thousands of people have already shown their support and had their name or that of a loved one placed under the wings of this iconic aircraft.
“We are offering supporters the opportunity to have their name on XH558, giving them a permanent connection to this remarkable and historically important aircraft.
“We know that our supporters want to see XH558, and people love to visit and see the name that they have chosen taking pride of place on this iconic aircraft and that is why it is important for us to let people know that we are working closely with the airports owners on a plan that we hope will see XH558 remain in Doncaster with increased access for supporters via a series of open days in 2024.
“Given the current uncertainty around the future ownership of the site we are conscious that any agreement may be temporary, but we remain hopeful that an agreement that is suitable for both parties can be agreed.”
Doncaster Sheffield Airport closed after owners, Peel Land and Property, conducted a strategic review of its costs. The local council have since expressed interest in reopening the airport and are in ongoing discussions with Peel.
The Vulcan to the Sky Trust have asked for donations of £35 per name – these will be unveiled on the bomb-bay doors in 2024.
All names will be added to the aircraft early in 2024 and details of how supporters can visit to see their name in place will be made available later in the year.
Marc added:
“We are continuously bowled over by the support shown to the project and this latest appeal will help the team of volunteers to continue to keep XH558 well maintained and looked after.”
For further information or to add a name to this iconic aircraft visit www.vulcantothesky.org
