The last flying example of one of Britain’s most iconic historic aircraft, Avro Vulcan XH558 is once again facing a funding crisis which could lead to her being permanently grounded and the Nuneaton Based Air Cadets are urging air enthusiasts and members of the public to pledge their support in a bid to help to keep her flying.

Air Cadets from 121 (Nuneaton) Squadron recently had a visit from members of the Vulcan to the Sky Trust, who came along to talk to them about the last flying example of one of Britain’s most recognisable historic aircraft Avro Vulcan XH558.

David Wilson and Ann Raske of the Vulcan to the Sky Trust described how after a career of 33 years of service, XH558, the Spirit of Great Britain, was the last Vulcan to fly with the RAF. Her final service flight was on 23rd March 1993 to Bruntingthorpe Aerodrome in Leicestershire. They then went on to detail the 14 years of work, which had gone into restoring her to an airworthy condition and how on the 18th October 2007, Vulcan XH558 roared into the air again. An unforgettable day for the Vulcan to the Sky team.

Unfortunately the Leicestershire based Vulcan to the Sky Trust who operate the Vulcan XH558 have suffered badly under the current financial climate, with some commercial sponsors withdrawing support. As a result the trust has until the end of October this year, to raise the £400,000 needed to keep her in the air otherwise the aircraft could be sold off to a private collector, possibly in Russia or the US, and may never fly again.

Flt Lt Paul Hincks of 121 (Nuneaton) Squadron said, “The financial situation will eventually improve but if XH558 stops flying now we will never see her back in the air again. Generations of young people have been inspired by the sight of the Vulcan’s unique delta wing shape and sound of its four mighty Olympus engines. Hopefully with the support of the public Vulcan XH558, Spirit of Great Britain, will continue honouring the past and inspiring future generations of air minded young people.