The Control Tower, or Watch Office as it was known in the RAF at that time (the American term 'Control Tower' didn't really come into general use until post war), is a real gem of restoration, taking visitors back to a time when so many things were very different, and very basic (note the very Spartan conditions and heating arrangements, and the ash trays etc!). it really does reinforce what we take for granted today !
This building was totally overgrown and virtually derelict, and is now a credit to the volunteers who worked hard to reclaim it, and scoured the country for authentic fittings.
PICS 1 and 2. The Tower from front and rear, with the signal square and flagstaff, the latter also used for signal systems, using 'balls'. During opening hours, the RAF Standard flies from the yard arm, and is lowered and stored each day at 'Last Parade' (closing time).
The following shots are just a sample of what is on display inside.
PIC 3. On the ground floor, this is the teleprinter room, where all signals notifying 'Ops' would be recieved, encoded.
PIC 4. Next door is the Operations switchboard, authentically recreated.
PICS 5 and 6. The main room at the front of the ground floor houses the Met Office and Ops room.
PICS 7 to 10. The upper floor, and the main front room, with some of the sections of Flying Control.
The rooms are easy to view, although Perspex screens prevent full access, and a recorded commentary can be played, describing the activities and role of the various offices etc.
Even spending just a short time here, there are many small, authentic details which can be seen, which really brings the place to life.
Thanks again for your interest, and I'm pleased to know that you are enjoying the tour - more soon.