I can’t remember the serial,but it’s on loan to the museum from the local ATC squadron.After serving with the RAF,the aircraft was converted by Hawker to a two-seater for a foreign air force,and the original nose was discarded.Someone was saying that the rest of the aircradt is still in existance in it’s twin-stick form.If only I could remember it’s ID!

Thanks for the correction David,I’d be interested to hear more about her history.Excuse me if I sound ignorant,but I thought that only the RAF painted thier rescue helo’s yellow??I seem to remember she was in a rather worn RAF scheme when she arrived at the museum,so at least she’s been repainted in the colours of the service she actually flew with.

…and finally,a view of the display hall over the Swift’s wingtip.

Unfortunately,I didn’t have equal success photographing the aircraft in the Merston Hall.There is currently work being carried out on both the Mk.3 Hunter and the Swift FR.5,so consequently there were alot of stepladders,workbenches etc in the way of the exhibits.A number of other exhibits such as engines have also had to be moved around to accomodate the restoration projects,so it wasn’t the easiest place to take piccies.In the end the only half decent ones I took were of the Swift.A number of panels are off and the tailcone has been removed amongst other things.Is this just a general inspection and assessment of her condition or is she being prepared for a move to pastures new??