Four of the voluntary workforce of the NAW journeyed south from Dewsbury to receive the Conrod Trophy on the occasion of the HAA Annual General Meeting and Flying Forum, held on March 16th at the Shuttleworth Collection.
Formed in 1973, the voluntary enthusiast group have researched and built three very impressive and authentic flying replicas. The Sopwith Triplane first flew in 1992, and is a much admired performer in the ranks of the Shuttleworth Collection, along with their second project, a Bristol M-1.
The final undertaking, a Sopwith Camel is nearing completion, and will move to Old Warden in the summer for assembly.
Project Leader Bob Richardson was joined by Geoffrey Kilner, John Thompson and Horace Darlington (senior Engineer) to be presented with the trophy by HAA Chairman Rick Peacock-Edwards. Both the Cody Glider project and ARC at Duxford were worthy contenders, but the committee vote was swung by the quality of the NAW work, and the dedication of this voluntary group of enthusiasts.
Sad to report, and unknown during the voting, 2013 marks the final year of the NAW, and once the Camel leaves the workshop, their work is essentially done. In their 40 years, the group have never yet won any award or recognition but the HAA is delighted to finally recognise their outstanding achievements.