Chairman’s Update December 2025

Christmas approaches after another busy season at Thorpe Abbotts. Visitor numbers this year have not quite hit the highs of last year but have still been much above average. What has been particularly satisfying is to see a significant increase in Veteran’s families coming over from the United States, many of whom have only just realised what their father/grandfather went through during the war after watching Masters of the Air’. There have also been increased numbers of Tour Groups. Looking ahead, we already have numerous Tour and family visits booked for next year.

During this winter closure we have many new things planned which we will be able to tell you about before the start of next season We have been erecting two new Nissen huts this year and the first one will be ready for our opening complete with all-new displays. Some changes are planned in the Visitor Centre and Engine Shed which, along with the new Nissen, will be renamed in honour of 100th Bomb Group Veterans.

The second Nissen will probably be open a bit later, in Spring, and hopefully this will contain some really exciting exhibits.

I’d like to thank all our volunteers for their fantastic support this year and all the visitors and supporters of the museum. If you’ve been before, please come back and see us and our new exhibits. If you haven’t been to Thorpe Abbotts before, we would be delighted to see you next year.

Merry Christmas and a happy New year to all.

Best wishes,

Reg Wilson,

Chair of Trustees.