With the centenary of World War I, Sir Peter Jackson will help to form a replica WW1 aerodrome based at Britain’s only intact WW1 airfield, Stow Maries in Essex. Jackson has not commented on it himself, but a listing on Britain’s WW1 Aviation Heritage Trust website revealed that the 14-18 Aviation Heritage Trust, chaired by Jackson, has donated £5000 equivalent to NZ$9900. In addition to the financial support, the 14-18 Aviation Heritage Trust will provide a fleet of New Zealand planes.
Source: Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre
On their homepage, the WW1 Aviation Heritage Trust explains the aim of the collection:
- Advance your understanding of the history of the evolution of military aviation during the Great War by flying displays, dioramas and educational courses as a testament to the men and machines and their sacrifice.
- Demonstrate at air shows in the UK, in 2014-2018 and beyond, how the aircrews, technology and tactics evolved during WW1.
- Support flypasts and static displays at commemorative events.
- Offer apprenticeships in vintage aircraft preservation, restoration and reproduction.
It is no secret that Jackson has a long running interest in World War 1; it is even listed among his interests on Facebook. In the past, Jackson and his team helped to restore the only film taken of the Anzacs, the Australian and and New Zealand Army Corps in WW1, at Gallipoli. The cooperation was started by Natalie Forsythe, the daughter of Dick Forsythe, the chief trustee of the WWI Aviation Heritage Trust. A few years ago, Natalie worked on The Hobbit and came into contact with the Vintage Aviator Company, which built and operates the aircraft in Jackson’s trust.
For further information, you can visit the homepage, facebook, and twitter page of the WWI Aviation Heritage Trust.
