Battle Headquarters

[norwichpaul]

As regards to the Hornchurch BHQ are we sure that is the building? Is this not the one that was excavated by Timeteam (or am I wrong) as they thought it was the two-level BHQ. We have the only known drawing of MS2279, which was reproduced in our book Airfield Defences.

[P Bellamy]

The TV show that did the excavations at Hornchurch was the BBC's Two Men in a Trench back in 2004.
The episode is available to view online (in the UK at least) HERE, with the BHQ shown from 38.30, confirming entry to the chamber was via a ladder from below through a central hatch.

All the best,
PB

[tigger]

Snatched a ten minute stop at Swinderby today . I won't post exterior shots as they've been covered before.

The steps down:


Looking back up:


At the bottom:


The main entrance. Bricked up and back-filled (to the right of the barbed wire)






more at: http://photobucket.com/Airfields/Swinderby

[tigger]

A few from Wellingore today

[tigger]

First stop today was Spittlegate

Cupola intact but entrance and escape hatch broken up.

[tigger]

Croft, May 2012 taken by David Thompson and posted at his request

[David Thompson]

Thanks tigger
The first photo is of the BHQ from the airfield itself and the second is looking back towards the airfield which is behind the conifer trees which were planted to act as soundproofing for the motor racing circuit !
It is probably 20 years or so since my last visit but the building still appears to be in good condition and without any damage or vandalism . Unsurprisingly given the recent rain there is a small amount of water on the floor but I intend going back again during the summer and will check the door which I presume to be original for any stencilling ?
tigger has also posted up more photos of this BHQ on his website . See Yorkshire - RAF Croft ; http://battleheadquarters.info/

[stiemer]

Matlaske Norfolk BHQ is now removed and a plantation set over top, thankfully I have some shots from last year although it was partially filled and in a sorry state.






Very sad as this was just up the road from me.

[tigger]

Middleton St George had two non-standard BHQs but only one now remains.

Aerial view from Digital Globe:


Photos from June 2012 taken by David Thompson













More photos at http://photobucket.com/MStG

[tigger]

Hibaldstow


Binbrook


Goxhill