A MUSEUM commemorating the role of New Forest airfields in the World War 2 took a step into the digital age with the unveiling of new interactive screens.

Defence Minister and Bournemouth East MP Tobias Ellwood did the honours at the Friends of the New Forest Airfields (FONFA) in Bransgore at the weekend.

The association was established in the 1990s by a group of local aviation enthusiasts, service veterans, author and historians.

Now, with many exhibits, artefacts, paintings and history boards, it is a treasure trove marking the huge effort the area played in the 1939-45 conflict.

The association also looks after the airfields' memorial at nearby Black Lane, on the perimeter track of the former Holmsley airfield site.

Mr Ellwood said: "This is wonderful place and an amazing to all those who served and sacrificed their lives.

"It is a very poignant and important reminder of dark times and how the country came through them. I have brought my two boys with me today because I think it is vital that younger and future generations grow up knowing about history of this time in particular."

The MP, who has responsibility for veterans in his ministerial role, was delighted to meet Staff Sgt Laurie Weedon, who was a glider pilot at both Normandy and three months later, Arnhem.

FONFA chairman, Dr Henry Goodall, said: "We are bringing new technology to the museum to bring things to life and reach wider audience. This is a big and exciting step forward for us."

The centre, in Mosquito Way, covers the history of 12 airfields including Stoney Cross, Lymington, Ibsley, Hurn, Holmsley, Christchurch, Bisterne, Beaulieu and Calshot.

It is open most Sundays from April to October.

For more see fonfasite.wordpress.com