80 years ago, on March 6 1936, the Spitfire made its first flight from Eastleigh airfield at Southampton.  This beautiful aeroplane became one of the most famous aircraft ever built: during World War II over 22,700 were built, and it was the only fighter in production throughout the war.   250 examples of the blue-painted Photo Reconnaissance Spitfire were assembled not far from Maidenhead, at a grass airfield east of Henley called Upper Culham Farm.

What was it like to fly?  Diaries and filmed interviews with ATA veterans in our collection at Maidenhead Heritage Centre contain frequent comments such as “Sweet as a nut” and “the sweetest airplane ever built”.   Our popular Spitfire simulator lets you come and try flying this iconic machine – just phone 01628 780555 to book your flight.  COME FLY WITH US!

On Saturday February 6th we were delighted to welcome to the museum 91-yr old Martin Nicholson, who flew for ATA in 1944 and 1945.  Martin took to the air in our Spitfire simulator, landing at Heathrow and then flying around the skyscrapers of modern-day London.  The photo shows him concentrating very hard while his son Anthony looks on.  We have two filmed interviews with Martin in our archive which casual visitors can watch on the computer in the ATA exhibition area.

We are delighted to announce that Jon Dance-Groom is joining us on February 9th as our new Learning Officer.  Jon is a primary school teacher and lives in Cookham, so he not only knows the local area but local schools as well.  We wish him every success in his new position.

Thanks to everyone who attended our free half term family activities at the museum this October! We had a record turnout and thoroughly enjoyed making mini-mummies and royal armbands, and getting messy mummifying oranges with you all!

Take a look at some of the photos from the day – can you spot yourself?

Remember, the REAL mummy’s hand is on display at the museum until Christmas, so come in and take a peep if you dare!

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The annual Maidenhead Boundary Walk took place on Sunday 4th October.  On a glorious early autumn day Chairman Richard Poad walked 13 miles to raise funds for the Heritage Centre, in particular to support the purchase of additional display screens for our temporary and permanent exhibitions.  Thanks to huge support both online and offline, he raised over £1600!  There is still time to add some sponsorship to this total via Richard’s Just Giving Page – click here to go to it.  Please don’t forget to “gift aid” your donation if you are a taxpayer.

Thank you very much indeed for your support.