On a characteristically sunny June Saturday, we made our way to the historic hangars in the care of the Hooton Park Trust. In a landscape dramatically changed over the last century; the former grand hall and estate of 18th C Hooton Park, falling into decline and becoming the site of an RFC station in 1917.
After introductions from Phil, the artists were to be found grafting away in Hangar 16. It is a gem of a place with plenty of interesting aircraft, cars, old push bikes and artefacts to keep everyone occupied.
In the hangar there are old photographs showing the dilapidated shell of the hangar from November 2014, with restoration works through the years until completion in August 2024. This hangar has been lovingly and beautifully restored with exposed wooden trusses with lots of natural light flooding in through the upper windows located on both sides of the hangar. It is a gift for the artist!
Thanks to the Staff at Hooton Park especially Sam Mellor, who was most helpful with our requests (and who also introduced us to her new puppy Tilly), and Jonathan who spent time discussing the history of Hooton and points of interest with us.

Amanda Norris
Regional Organiser