His interest in military planes began when he watched US Army Air Force bombers taking off and landing at a nearby airfield during the second world war.
But aviation enthusiast Bertie Ashby was last night praised for preserving an important part of Anglo-American military heritage after making a huge donation to save the UK’s only airworthy B-17 Flying Fortress.
The pensioner from Wymondham is looking forward to attending the Imperial War Museum at Duxford, near Cambridge, at the weekend when the Sally B takes part in her first memorial flight in 18 months.
It comes after Mr Ashby donated £360,000 following the sale of some land to return the second world war bomber to the skies after a major mechanical fault.
Officials from the B-17 Charitable Trust spoke of their delight as they prepared to return to the air show scene following the generosity of the retired builder.
I sincerely hope the commentators take a break from blathering to get him the standing ovation he deserves from the crowd.
Moggy
By: Sealand Tower - 15th May 2009 at 21:58
Terrific!
By: J Boyle - 15th May 2009 at 17:17
Well done…buy that man a pint!
By: Rich82 - 15th May 2009 at 16:51
Mr Ashby
I was at the Sally B gathering at Duxford to see Ellie Sallingboe and the team thanking and praising Mr Ashby for his donation. Had a brief chat with him – a thoroughly pleasant man, very down to earth and genuine. I can honestly say it was a pleasure to meet him.
Glad to see Sally B back where she belongs!
By: WJ244 - 15th May 2009 at 12:26
A very generous donation which should not only see Sally B over her immediate problems but hopefully contribute towards her long term security as well. I hope they are able to repay him with a flight at some point which would be small recompense for the money involved.
By: Wyvernfan - 15th May 2009 at 10:55
At a time when our own MP’s are busy with there noses in our troughs, it is so nice to hear for once of someone giving generously rather than taking. Many thanks Mr Ashby.:)
By: Livewirex - 15th May 2009 at 09:24
Fantastic news, and a worthy cause to give to. Now is there someone in France with some spare cash looking for something similar to give to?
By: BSG-75 - 15th May 2009 at 08:36
outstanding…
Top man!
By: DocStirling - 15th May 2009 at 08:35
Indeed, a remarkably generous gift – well done that man!
DS
By: Lindy's Lad - 15th May 2009 at 08:31
If only there were more people like Mr. Ashby. Top work fellah!
By: Steve Bond - 15th May 2009 at 08:24
Fantastic news, well done!
Sign In
May 15, 2009 at 7:27 am