THE sound of spitfires could be heard circling the skies of Stanmore today as the Bentley Priory museum was unveiled for the first time and tributes were paid to ‘The Few’.
The museum is situated in the former headquarters of Fighter Command in the Grade II* listed mansion house in The Common Stanmore and was formally opened by The Prince of Wales and The Duchess of Cornwall with great fanfare.
Eight years of work was carried out by veterans, volunteers and members of the Bentley Priory Battle of Britain Trust to ensure that ‘the few’ were recognised for their pivotal role.
Wing Commander Bob Foster DFC AE, chairman of the Battle of Britain Fighter Association, was just 20 years old when he served in the RAF during the Battle of Britain.
The 93-year-old, who attended the opening with his wife, Kathie, told the Observer: "When the news came through that the MoD was selling Bentley Priory, was decided it wasn’t on. We managed to raise money to build it and here we are five years later. It would have been a great pity if had been let go.
"It was a lot of money to raise, but we were really supported by the people of Harrow. They have been behind us all the way and have been very supportive."
The museum tells the story of ‘The One’ Air Chief Marshall Sir High Dowding, ‘The Few’ the aircrew, and ‘The Many’ – all the support staff vital to the Fighter Command effort.
Over afternoon tea and cakes, the celebratory event brought together veteran pilots alongside lady veteran Fighter Controllers, known affectionately as the ‘beauty chorus’ who played a crucial role in intercepting incoming raids.
Their Royal Highnesses took the time to talk to the veterans and their families, to hear their stories, and were given a tour of the filter room, a replica of the wartime operations room where three of the female veterans came face to face with bronze recreations of themselves.
The royals also met the hard-working volunteers who are undertaking a multitude of tasks, such as in the education centre of the museum and keeping the beautiful gardens pristine.
HRH Prince Charles said: "The lady veterans here today, like the men, at the age of just 18-20, ensured this country never gave up. They played such a vital part themselves."
He went on: "The great thing about this project is that we have managed to save Bentley Priory and ensure there is a suitable museum. I was glad to be able to play a part in this, to find a solution which I think on the whole was suitable. I’m thrilled we have found a suitable use for Bentley Priory."
