In this poignant episode we delve into the untold stories of Ernest Rees, a young RAF sergeant flight engineer who served on the legendary Avro Lancaster during World War II.

His son, Steve Rees, joins us in the studio to share his extensive research and personal reflections on his father's wartime experiences, which are often overlooked in historical records.

Through a mix of historical insights and personal anecdotes, Steve recounts the randomness of war, the burden of leadership, and the lasting impact of loss on families.

Join us for a heartfelt exploration of bravery, sacrifice, and remembrance.

We take a fascinating detour from aviation to explore the early life of Alliot Verdon Roe, a prominent figure in aviation history.

Join us as Derek Cartwright from the Horwich Heritage Society shares insights into Roe's apprenticeship at Horwich Locoworks, where he honed his engineering skills and engaged in spirited social activities.

Discover the reasons behind his transition from railways to aviation and the legacy he left behind in Horwich.

This episode is a delightful blend of history, engineering, and the vibrant life of a young innovator.

It's ​the ​second ​half ​of ​ our ​conversation ​with ​Richard ​Kaberry, ​when ​he ​will ​be ​talking ​about ​his ​work ​at ​the ​museum ​at ​Woodford, ​conducting ​cockpit ​tours ​for ​the ​public ​as ​well ​as ​for ​a ​wide ​variety ​of ​groups.

​We also ​asked ​him ​briefly ​to ​reflect ​back ​on ​his ​40 ​year ​long ​career ​in ​aviation ​and ​to ​choose ​the ​one ​job ​or ​period ​​that ​he ​would ​like ​to ​go ​back ​to ​if ​he ​had ​the ​chance.

We embark on a fascinating journey through the history of aviation with Richard Kaberry, a dedicated volunteer at the museum.

Richard shares his personal experiences starting from his early career at Manchester Airport, known as Ringway, in the 1980s, and recounts the significant connection between Avro and this iconic location.

From the maiden flights of legendary aircraft like the Avro Lancaster to the excitement of air travel in a gentler time, Richard's stories are rich with nostalgia and insight.

Tune in to discover the charm of aviation history and hear about memorable encounters with celebrities and the impact of tragic events on the airport community.

In this inaugural episode of our occasional series, 'A History of Avro Heritage in 20 Objects', we explore a unique artefact that encapsulates a pivotal moment in Avro's legacy.

Join us as John Nicholl, a dedicated Woodfordian, guides us through the cultural landscape of 1965, revealing the significance of the object and the collective sentiments surrounding the relocation of the drawing offices from Chadderton to Woodford.

With anecdotes and insights, this episode offers a fascinating glimpse into the past of Avro and the people who shaped its history.

In this episode, we continue our enlightening conversation with Frank Pleszak, a dedicated volunteer at the Avro Heritage Museum.

Frank shares his journey of introducing artefacts related to Avro history, his involvement in significant events, and the importance of partnerships with other aviation museums.

He reflects on his rewarding experiences working with special needs pupils and the profound impact of the Dam Busters' legacy.

Join us as we delve into Frank's fascinating stories and insights into the world of aviation heritage.

In this episode, we speak with Frank Pleszak, a dedicated volunteer at the Avro Heritage Museum, whose passion for aviation has spanned decades.

Frank shares his fascinating journey from a young aircraft spotter at Ringway Airport to a historian with a wealth of experience in agricultural aviation.

Discover the intriguing stories behind his varied career, including his time working with ex-combat pilots and his adventures in Africa.

Join us as we delve into the world of aviation and the vital role of volunteers in preserving our heritage.

This week on the Avro Heritage Museum podcast, we sit down with Pete Jenkins, a Lancaster cockpit guide, as he shares his incredible experience of flying on an Avro Lancaster at the Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum.

Discover the history of these iconic aircraft, the challenges Pete faced in booking his flight, and his lifelong passion for aviation, sparked by family ties.

Join us for a thrilling journey through the sky and the fascinating stories behind these remarkable planes!

In this gripping conclusion to an RAF airman's story, Roger Yates continues his father Alan's story of his harrowing experiences of a prisoner of war in Stalag 344.

As the war draws to a close, we follow Alan's perilous journey through the chaos of conflict, witnessing the brutality faced by captives and the unexpected moments of humanity that arise.

From a near-execution by German soldiers to the eventual surrender and the arrival of American forces, this episode captures the resilience of the human spirit amidst the horrors of war.

Join us as we reflect on the importance of preserving such historical accounts and the lessons they impart.

In this gripping continuation of Alan Yates's story, narrated by his son Roger, we follow Alan's harrowing journey after his aircraft was shot down over occupied Holland.

From his quick capture by German forces to his experiences in a POW camp, Roger shares his father's remarkable resilience and the unexpected humanity shown by his captors.

Discover the challenges Alan faced during his solitary confinement and the camaraderie he found among fellow prisoners as they navigated the harsh realities of war.

This episode offers a poignant look at survival, friendship, and the complexities of human interaction in times of conflict.