The Avro Lancaster B.VII NX611, affectionately known as “Just Jane,” is steadily advancing toward airworthy restoration at the Lincolnshire Aviation Heritage Centre (LAHC) in East Kirkby, Lincolnshire. Under the guidance of project leader Andrew Patton, the restoration team has made significant strides, despite a slightly slower month due to team members’ annual leave. Recent work has seen Ade and Andy complete the trimming and fitting of the Perspex for NX611’s front turret cupola. The new Perspex was produced using bespoke moulds crafted by Ben Ferguson of Revival Motorsport and blown by White Ellerton, resulting in a precise fit. The next step will involve removing the cupola from its temporary accommodation plate and securing it over the turret.
Meanwhile, Keith and Dennis have been focused on the tailplanes. While awaiting the arrival of new spar booms, the team is producing the tailplane ribs, ensuring they are ready for assembly. The rib webs are newly manufactured to replace the originals, which were compromised by the use of blind rivets on the lower surfaces, though all attachments remain original.
In the rear-mid fuselage, Dave, Jodie, and Phil have been working on repairs for NX664. Damaged formers are being partially replaced, and new intercostals produced to substitute missing or damaged components. A section of former and intercostals is also being added to compensate for the missing H2S mounting ring, allowing for external fitting of the Perspex cupola while acknowledging that a scanner unit cannot be installed.
Significant progress has also been made on the procurement front. Orders for new wing spar and tailplane spar extrusions, as well as additional extrusions needed for the project, have been placed. The £200,000 order is expected to arrive in January, unlocking further work on the wing and tailplane assemblies.
Support from the public has been instrumental. The LAHC’s GoFundMe Wings Campaign has raised over £84,623 of the £500,000 target, helping fund jigs, aluminium, and other critical materials. Donors who contribute to the Wings Fund are eligible to receive a special Wings Fund badge as a token of appreciation. For aviation enthusiasts and supporters of heritage preservation, the ongoing restoration of “Just Jane” represents a rare opportunity to witness one of Britain’s most iconic bombers brought back to life. For more information about the Lincolnshire Aviation Heritage Centre, visit www.lincsaviation.co.uk
