Description
RAF Northolt – 100 years of Aviation History
One hundred years of service (95 as a military flying station), means that RAF Northolt, based in South Ruislip is a reflection of aviation history. Northolt pre-dates the establishment of the Royal Air Force by almost three years, having opened in May 1915. It has the longest history of continuous use of any RAF airfield. More recently it has become a multipurpose Tri-service base serving the growing needs of a modern Armed Forces.
To mark this historic centenary the British Forces Philatelic Bureau, in conjunction RAF Northolt, has produced a special commemorative cover that will be released on the 3ʳᵈ March 2015. The cover image uses the spoke from the station badge to depict the various units and activities that are now part of the base. This issue will include a limited edition of 500 flown covers, some of which will be signed by the Station Commander and Officer Commanding Operations Wing.
Group Captain Andy Bacon, Station Commander Royal Air Force Northolt, said “Producing this unique commemorative cover has been a collaborative project between RAF Northolt and the British Forces Philatelic Service and I would like to congratulate all those involved for creating such a unique and memorable item as we celebrate Northolt’s centenary. I am sure that it will hold much appeal for both collectors and supporters of the Armed Forces community alike, giving them an opportunity to own a piece of history. The money raised from the sale of the covers will help to continue the vital restoration work on the Sir Keith Park Building at Northolt which is restoring and preserving a piece of both Station and wider Royal Air Force history.”
Most of the covers have been reserved for RAF Northolt, however BFPS has secured a limited quantity for sale to its customers.The covers may be purchased from the BFPS online shop (www.bfps.org.uk/shop). These will cost just £6 (UK/BFPO p&p free) for the unsigned version, £8 for the flown only and £12 for the signed versions. They are available to order now on a strictly first-come-first-served basis. The covers are also available by post by sending a cheque payable to ‘BFPS CIC to BFPS The Old Post Office Links Place Elie Fife KY9 1AX.
