Jet cockpit is star of free transport event

The cockpit, with seats and controls from a Gloster Meteor, is being loaned by East Midlands Aeropark – an aviation museum near the local airport at Castle Donington. The Gloster Meteors were the RAF’s first jet fighters and this particular model, the NF.13, was a night fighter. Visitors will also be able to see the workings of an engine with a spinning propeller in action.

With activities around planes, trains and cars, there’s something for any young transport enthusiast to enjoy. Visitors will get to try a variety of activities like building and test driving their own toy building brick vehicles, getting hands on with a large-scale train set, and racing paper planes down the garden runway.

A poster urges families, curious minds and little adventurers to make tracks for the event. It says: “Don’t miss this hands-on experience packed with fun and learning.”

Erewash Borough Council deputy leader, Cllr Becca Everett, who is Lead Member for Community Engagement said: “I hope this event will encourage or inspire some budding train drivers, pilots, and engineers. It’s always a joy when we can encourage children to learn through a fun day out with new experiences, and seeing a cockpit up close isn’t something we get to do every day!”

Visitors won’t have to book – just come along from 11am to 4pm on Wednesday 28th May to Friday 30th May for an uplifting day out. Fast-paced car enthusiasts interested in building F1 cars can make their visit on Wednesday while the models are available, before the cockpit arrives in time for Thursday and Friday.

Erewash Museum welcomes some 20,000 people a year. It is normally open from 11am to 4pm on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays – and is free to visit. During school holidays it also opens on Wednesdays. Refreshments are available at its Dalby House Café.