Hindenburg and RAFRochford regarding the wheel in post 72, thanks for responses.
I have checked the stamps and embossed inscriptions which are as follows: Round circle within this is the number 12 and letters SB or SR. Around the spindle is the number R122 or B122. On the reverse spoke arms is the number 3/96 Number 10 and words TESTED.
Any confirmations?

In addition Hindenburg I was interested in your photos, out of interest what is the purpose of having the top part of the rim wheel detached? Never seen this before. Thanks again.

Steve, Thanks for verification, I believe that the S31 prototype Stirling (tail number M4) was half the scale of a main production line Stirling, not sure if it had one or two pilots? I understand that either another one or two further prototypes followed, this time these were full size Sterlings. Interesting that you attribute this to the S31 (half size) perhaps this is why it is slightly different to the normal Stirling wheel. From the cockpit pictures I have looked at, I don’t think the standard Sterlings had the outer plastic coating to the wheel but perhaps I’m wrong. I’m still interested in knowing the Sterling part number prefix so that I can cross check the embossed numbers on the wheel, if anyone knows? Thank Godness it wasn’t thrown on a skip, just makes you think what else in the past has been thrown away!

Oh well out with my magnifying glass then!
Anyone know the part numbers for a Shorts Stirling or the Shorts company please?

The picture on Post 72 is reputedly one of the prototype Short Stirlings. Certainly looks similar to the pictures I have seen of a Stirling wheel (must get around to checking the embossed stamps) I am no expert on WWII stuff so if anyone has any other opinions I will appreciate and take on board the comments.

Some recent additions to my collection which I was very happy to acquire.
The first is the mighty TU95 Bear and the other is the TU16 Badger. The TU95 appears to be from an early variant as the yoke design changed during model improvements.
Interestingly both these wheels are rather wide compared to western types.
From what I have been told by a pilot and collector it is because these old birds didn’t have power controls, therefore the wider wheel made steering the aircraft a little easier. Apparently Russian pilots developed good biceps!