Spirit comes home for repairs

A landmark aircraft that has stood proudly outside County Hall for almost two decades is coming “home” for a major restoration.

The Jaguar, known as Spirit of Coltishall, will be removed from its current position and transported to the former RAF Coltishall airbase at Scottow, where volunteers from the RAF Coltishall Heritage Trust will carry out a comprehensive refurbishment programme.

The plane – which flew between 1970 and 1977 – was the “gate guardian” at RAF Coltishall before being relocated to County Hall in 2007 when the base closed.

The work will be led by John Welton, who oversaw the aircraft’s installation at County Hall while serving in the RAF.

“This aircraft means a great deal to many people who served at RAF Coltishall and worked on the Jaguar force throughout its operational life,” he said.

“For the volunteers involved, this is much more than a restoration project. It is about preserving part of Norfolk’s aviation heritage and ensuring the stories connected with the aircraft continue to be told.

“Many members of our team have firsthand experience of the Jaguar and understand these aircraft inside and out. We are honoured to be entrusted with its care.

“There is something particularly rewarding about helping to restore it and safeguard it for future generations.

“We look forward to bringing Spirit of Coltishall back to its best before returning it to County Hall.”

Nick Taylor, cabinet member for commercial assets and revenue generation at the county council, said: “Preserving this piece of Norfolk’s military heritage is important.

“The Jaguar has become one of the most recognisable features of County Hall and a lasting tribute to our armed forces. This restoration will help to protect the aircraft for years to come.

“I am particularly pleased that the work is being carried out by RAF veteran volunteers from the RAF Coltishall Heritage Centre. Their expertise and personal connection to the aircraft make them uniquely placed to take on this project.”

Scaffolding will be erected around the Jaguar ahead of the operation to remove it from its display mount in early October.

Its wings and underwing pods will be removed before transportation to Scottow.

Once there, the restoration is expected to take a few months, with the Jaguar returning to County Hall next year.

Spirit of Coltishall was only the second Jaguar to be built. After its flying career it spent time as gate guardian at RAF Bruggen in Germany from 1985 until 2001, when the base closed.

The total cost of the project is expected to be up to £35,000 and will be funded by the income generated through Norwich City FC matchday parking at County Hall.