Aircraft conservation at Cosford

Many of the restoration techniques are no longer used in aircraft production

Thousands of customers pass through the doors of the RAF Museum at Cosford every year. But behind every faithfully restored Spitfire and Messerschmitt is a team with a sharp eye for detail.

The Michael Beetham Conservation Centre (MBCC) within the RAF Museum is a world leader in aircraft restoration.

Many of the aircraft are rare examples, and can take years to complete.

The centre is offering the public a glimpse into their work 10.15am-1pm on 9-14 November. Entry is free.

The speed of the centre's work is governed not only by the intricacy of the engineering, but also its sheer scale. They are also responsible for the routine maintenance of some 300 aircraft.

The team of engineers are currently working on a range of projects, which will be on view to visitors in varying states of completion. Their expertise and attention to detail has brought Cosford an international reputation for aviation restoration and conservation.

The RAF Museum's latest acquisition a Percival Prentice will be one of many aircraft on display. The post-war training aeroplane is one of only 17 left in the world.

The sheer scale can make restoration a long and expensive process

The Handley Page Hampden Bomber is an ongoing project that has required a lot of work. When the Hampden crash-landed in a bog in Russia, peasants removed material from the wings to make shoes.

Other aircraft on display will include the Sopwith Dolphin, Farman F-141, Range Safety Launch and Fairey Battle Mk1.

Manager of the Conservation Centre, Tim Wallis explained that the conservation team were looking forward to meeting the public and showing off their work.

Mr Wallis said: "I hope that like our previous guests, they too will enjoy the experience, the exchange of information and the brief, but rare insight into our painstaking work to preserve aviation heritage."

The team of engineers also works alongside five apprentices to make sure skills are passed down to the next generation.