Weekend Celebrations Set for £1 Million WWII Sculpture Unveiling

A major celebration is planned to mark the official unveiling of a monumental sculpture dedicated to the Second World War’s connections with RAF Bomber Command. The £1 million artwork, titled On Freedom’s Wings, is a full-scale replica of a Lancaster Bomber and will be officially inaugurated from May 15 to 17, 2024. This three-day event is organized by the Bomber County Gateway Trust and is expected to draw significant public interest.

The sculpture was positioned on a hillside in Norton Disney, overlooking the A46, close to the border between Lincolnshire and Nottinghamshire, in September 2023. This project, which has spanned eight years, has transformed from a simple roadside sculpture into a significant landmark attracting visitors from across the United Kingdom.

Trust chairman Charlie White expressed gratitude for the community’s support, stating, “This is really a thank you and a celebration for everyone who put in the effort to help us get here.” He noted the surprising level of public interest, with visitors coming from as far south as London and as far north as Scotland.

Details of the Celebration Weekend

The weekend will begin on Friday, May 15, with a Black Tie Ball featuring a three-course dinner, a live band, a disco, and an auction. This exclusive event will be open to the public, with ticket sales intended to cover event costs without using funds raised for the sculpture.

On Saturday, May 16, the official opening ceremony will take place. This will feature speeches and a dedication led by the Bishop of Nottingham, followed by a traditional afternoon tea and musical entertainment. Due to anticipated high attendance, tickets will be required to manage visitor numbers effectively.

The weekend will culminate on Sunday, May 17, with a relaxed celebration afternoon that includes barbecue food, music, dancing, and discussions about the creation of On Freedom’s Wings. Attendees will have the opportunity to interact with trustees and ask questions about the project.

The choice of May 15 is particularly significant, marking the eighth anniversary of the groundbreaking ceremony led by Johnny Johnson, affectionately known as the “Last Dambuster.” The subsequent dates of May 16 and 17 coincide with the historical Dambusters Raid, during which Lancasters from 617 Squadron bombed German dams in 1943.

Future Developments and Visitor Access

Although the sculpture is now in place, further landscaping and infrastructure are required to ensure visitor safety. The Trust is currently seeking approval for pathways and a car park to accommodate larger groups of visitors in a controlled manner. If granted, this will enhance accessibility to the site.

In the interim, the Trust has scheduled several open days for those eager to see the sculpture before the official celebrations. Open days are set for March 14, March 22, April 11, and April 25, from 10:00 to 15:00 each day. Additionally, a special blue badge-only visiting day will be held on March 18, with reservations available through direct contact with the Bomber County Gateway Trust.

The upcoming celebrations not only commemorate a significant artistic achievement but also honor the sacrifices and history associated with the RAF Bomber Command during the Second World War.