Historic First World War airfield restored by lottery cash

A reproduction of a BE2-e which flew from Stow Maries airfield a hundred years ago. Credit: ITV News Anglia

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An aerodrome in Essex is set to receive £4.3 million of lottery funding for restoration.

Stow Maries, near Maldon, played a key role in defending Britain during the First World War.

Nearly a century later the buildings and airfield could become a major visitor attraction

Once home to the Royal Flying Corps 37 Squadron, Stow Maries Great War Aerodrome near Maldon played a key role in defending Britain from German Zeppelins in 1916.

The Trust running the site has now been awarded a grant from the National Lottery worth £4.3 million.

The money will go towards building a new Visitor Centre and restoring three historic buildings which have fallen into disrepair.

The lottery funding will ensure that historic airfield buildings are restored and preserved. Credit: ITV News Anglia

Work will start on restoring another section of this aerodrome in 18 months time.

It will be providing not only a portal to the past but ensuring the sacrifice of those who passed through here is remembered well into the future.