2015 is the centenary of the Westland Aircraft Works in Yeovil and the anniversary will be commemorated by a display at Yeovil’s Town House along with the production of a souvenir booklet.
South Somerset District Council’s Community Heritage Access Centre staff are asking whether anyone has any photographs or objects concerning Westland and/or the First World War that they can place in the exhibition. Items can be loaned for the exhibition or donated to CHAC to become part of the historical collection held here.
The Westland Aircraft Works were built due to the First World War and the need for naval aircraft. The first aircraft to be built at the Works was a Short 184 seaplane and left on 1st January 1916 by horse and cart. The fourth ever aircraft built at Westland, took part in the Battle of Jutland. It was piloted by Frederick Rutland from Weymouth ‘Rutland of Jutland’ and successfully reported by radio the movements of the German Fleet.
Councillor Sylvia Seal, Portfolio Holder for Leisure and Culture said, “Westland Aircraft Works has been a major part of the history and making of Yeovil. We are delighted to help what is now AgustaWestland to celebrate their 100th anniversary. If you can help by loaning or donating items for the exhibition then we urge you to contact our staff at the Community Heritage Access Centre”.
If you would like to get in contact with the Community Heritage Access Centre regarding objects for the exhibition, please ring 01935 462886 or email [email protected]. The display will be held at the Town House, Union Street in Yeovil.