Wealdon Aviation Group

[Andy Saunders]

Gasiorowska

Hello! I was a founder member and one-time Secretary of the Wealden Aviation Archaeological Group which existed from 1971 - 81.

I was not present when parts of the Hurricane were unearthed, but I can put you in touch with people who were. As far as I know my friend Pat Burgess still has some parts from that aeroplane. Only a few shattered parts were found and I believe the propellor hub is still in the ground. Contact me and I can help you!

John

I do not think I am alone in my belief that the measures at Hawkinge smack more of paranoia than security. It cannot be considered normal for visitors to be relieved of cameras, notebooks, mobile phones, pens or recording equipment. Indeed, it is not unknown for notebooks to be confiscated and "offending" pages ripped out or cameras to have film removed. In the case of mobile phones I understand that images have been deleted if anyone has been foolish enough to defy the ban. I accept that the owners of the museum have a right to set their own terms and conditions. Equally, if those are the conditions then they need to be respected. But even so.....!!! Not only that, but any visitor who is known to have an interest in the subject above normal Joe Public level is viewed with suspicion and watched...or even followed! There are also a considerable number of fellow enthusiasts/researchers/historians who are "banned" from admission. I can think of several who are prominent members of this forum, in fact! As to the claim that the reason for these measures is to prevent theft to order, that can only be described as nuts. A considerable part of the collection is listed (or even photographed) in at least one publication. In any event, would not a potential thief be able to remember what he had seen and either come back later or report back to his potential "buyer". Or maybe there is a metal detecting screen on entry to find hidden recording equipment which, on exit, emits an electronic smog to expunge ones brain of the memory of all that has been seen.

Sorry, but if you are a serious researcher and want to use this museum as one might expect with other museums (ie an information, research and learning resource) then forget it, really.

Look at their own Guestpage or other forums to see that I am a lone voice amongst very many!