The gunners mount and hatch was excavated from a hillside in France after a Dambusters plane was shot down in December 1943, killing all seven men on board.

It is the only surviving piece of Dambusters modification anywhere in the world.

The piece, along with the fascinating story of how it came about, how it was found and the fate of the seven-man crew, will all be on show from this weekend.

Julie Ashworth of Grantham Museum said: "We are very lucky to have the been given the piece on long-term loan by the RAF.

"We are absolutely delighted to have it. When you consider that the piece in front of you actually went on the dambusters raid then having the chance to work with it is the best part of the job."

A special unveiling of the exhibition will be held at Grantham Museum at 12.15pm. Special guest will be Richard Todd, star of 'The Dambusters' film.


Last moments of Lancaster ED825

THE Lancaster ED825 took off from RAF Tempsford in Lancaster on December 10, 1943, with Flying Officer Gordon Weedon and his six-man crew on board.

The mission was to drop boxes of ammunition and supplies to the French resistance.

Heading towards Doullens, the plane was hit with anti-aircraft fire and immediately burst into flames.

The rear gunner WO Robert Cummings grabbed his parachute and attempted to make his escape by jettisoning the hatch.

However, the plane was too low for his parachute to open safely and he died from his injuries. The other six members of the crew were also killed.




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