RAF base to be restored

A world war one airbase in Essex has been granted grade two listed status.

The Stow Maries aerodrome near Chelmsford is believed to be the only one left of its kind worldwide.

Between 1916 and 1918 it was used by the Royal Flying Corps to counter attack German raids on the city of London.

At its peak 400 people worked at the base. Their job was to defend London against German Zeppelin airship and bomber attacks during the First World War.

So far just two out of the 24 buildings have been restored. The Grade Two listing gives the owners the opportunity to turn the site into a charity. That in turn they say will help with funding and ultimately its complete restoration.