Sunday 2 June 2013

New idea in interpretation

Short Sunderland in grass
A bird’s eye view on the ‘Green Sunderland’
PICTURE: Sue Clarkson.
A novel and economic way of interpreting and showing the size and shape of a long lost aircraft is on show at Pembroke Dock in Pembrokeshire, South West Wales.

A huge green Sunderland Flying Boat is signposting Pembroke Dock’s very popular Flying Boat Centre Workshop - but only the birds, and the occasional pilot, can really get a grandstand view. But those on the ground will certainly get the 'feel' for the size of the aircraft.

The grassed area alongside the Centre, located inside the walls of the former Royal Dockyard, has been marked out with the exact dimensions of the famous Short Sunderland - length 85 ft and 112 ft wingspan.

Created by members of the Sunderland Trust’s enthusiastic Volunteer Team, the Sunderland’s unique shape stands out because the grass is mowed at two different heights.

This aerial view was taken by Sunderland Trust Volunteer Sue Clarkson from an aircraft flown by husband Graham - also a volunteer. Plans are now being formulated to make best use of the grass Sunderland.

Ground level views of the ‘Green Sunderland’ can be had when visiting the Flying Boat Centre Workshop which is open Tuesdays to Fridays, 10 am to 4 pm. Entry is free.