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Installing the spire JLP01_08_062425
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Historic England
Installing the spire JLP01_08_062425
COVENTRY CATHEDRAL, PRIORY STREET, COVENTRY. RAF aircrew on the roof of Coventry Cathedral manoeuvring the 80ft bronze spire on to a 1 yard square plate. The spire of the old cathedral can be seen in the background.
The photograph was taken during Operation Rich Man a joint project involving Royal Air Force staff and Laing staff. This involved a RAF Belvedere helicopter hoisting in to place the 80ft bronze spire on to the new cathedral. The part of the operation to lower the 1/2 ton cross that sits on top of the spire had to be postponed due to windy conditions
Historic England is the public body that champions and protects England's historic places
Media ID 23993812
© Historic England Archive. John Laing Photographic Collection
1960s Building Site Cathedral Construction People
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This print captures a significant moment in the construction of Coventry Cathedral. RAF aircrew members, working alongside Laing staff, can be seen on the roof of the cathedral delicately maneuvering an impressive 80ft bronze spire onto a small 1 yard square plate. In the background, one can catch a glimpse of the old cathedral's spire, serving as a poignant reminder of both destruction and rebirth. The photograph was taken during Operation Rich Man, a collaborative effort between Royal Air Force personnel and Laing staff. This ambitious project involved utilizing an RAF Belvedere helicopter to hoist the colossal bronze spire into place atop the new cathedral. However, due to adverse weather conditions characterized by strong winds, the operation had to be temporarily halted before lowering the half-ton cross that crowns this magnificent structure. Transported back to the bustling building site of Coventry Cathedral in the 1960s through this image, one cannot help but marvel at both human ingenuity and determination showcased here. The dedication displayed by these individuals is truly remarkable as they work tirelessly towards creating an architectural masterpiece that will stand tall for generations to come. This print from A© Historic England Archive serves as a powerful testament not only to our ability to rebuild after devastation but also highlights how collaboration across different sectors can lead to extraordinary achievements in construction and engineering.
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