The Helicopter Museum at Weston-super-Mare has issued a Progress Report on its new Entrance Building, which is replacing the original wooden Pratten building structure that was used as the reception, introductory displays, café and shop since the Museum first opened in 1989.The Museum has thus far self-funded the new building, which will contain a new café and toilets, shop, reception and

staff offices and a new film theatre/meeting room, as well as refreshed introductory and educational displays, leading through into the main museum.
“Even though the project was not considered as heritage or conservation related, meaning that we were unable to secure grant aid for the project, we are receiving great support from a number of our volunteers who are helping with fund raising and the fitting out work.” Says THM General Manager Lee Mills. “We have also been fortunate in being offered various items to help furnish and complete the new offices and café area.”
Meanwhile other museum volunteers have begun to prepare exhibits that will be relocated in the new extension, including a rare 1930s Cierva C.30A Autogiro that was discovered in the rafters of a garage near Cirencester more than thirty years ago. Used during the Second World War for early warning radar station calibration on the East Coast, the exhibit includes a section of the original fabric bearing the RAF markings and serial number (AP506). Other exhibits will also be relocated into the new extension this coming winter, freeing up space in the main display hangar.
Funding Donations towards the project will be gratefully acknowledged in the completed building and can be sent to the Museum / Charity by BACS, Cheque or Credit/Debit card payments. www.helicoptermuseum.co.uk.