Visitors flock to RAF Bentley Priory (From Harrow Times)

Visitors flock to RAF Bentley Priory

1:41pm Sunday 14th September 2008

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HUNDREDS of people have flocked to the historic RAF Bentley Priory site in Stanmore.

The base, which was the headquarters of RAF Fighter Command during the Battle of Britain, has opened up its doors to welcome visitors.

It is the first time in 80 years anyone has been able to visit the site.

Tony Raymond, president of the Stanmore Society said it was a privilege to be supporting the open day.

Mr Raymond, said: “This has been a brilliant opportunity for us and the people who have been able to come in.

“With us being the local residents group in Stanmore we have been very supportive.

“Our volunteers have been conducting the tours and we have also been providing people with information on the area.”

Throughout the four days since the airbase has opened up its doors, there has been a chance to experience the 1940s with people from the Lincolnsfield Centre formerly known as Bushey Hall.

Veterans have been speaking to people about their experiences and there have also been tours of the site.

John Harris, of Penshurst Gardens, Edgware, said: “This is absolutely fantastic, a wonderful experience.

“I have read about the Battle of Britain, seen films about it but never have I had the chance to learn this much about it.

“It's amazing the base is still here, it could have been bombed at anytime during the war.

“Everything here has been amazing and it has been such a moving experience.”

Have you been to the open day? Tell us by leaving your comments below.

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