MEMBERS of a charity devoted to returning a British World War II aircraft to the skies are to lead a discussion at a Royal British Legion club in Bournemouth.

The Royal British Legion Ferndown Model Society is dedicating it’s meeting on Thursday October 28 to a presentation by The Peoples Mosquito.

The seminar will focus on Operation Crossbow, the project to build the first British-built de Havilland Mosquito aircraft in over 70 years.

Following its completion, the aircraft will appear at air shows around the country.

Nigel Seymour, from the Royal British Legion Ferndown Model Society, said: “Building has commenced at its West Sussex base, assisted by the original template drawings that were donated to the group by Airbus Industries who found them in a little used storeroom.

“Known as the ‘Wooden Wonder’, the aircraft was built of wood in furniture factories and became a true all-purpose aircraft.

“No doubt, a future attraction at the Bournemouth Air Festival.”

The presentation will also feature the true experiences from a former Mosquito Navigator, Flt Lt Des Curtis DFC who was decorated for his part in attacking and sinking a German U Boat in World War II.

Nigel added: “Des, lives in the Bournemouth area. What’s so remarkable, is that in later life he met and befriended the U Boat Captain whose submarine he sank.”

The presentation will start at 7.30pm on October 28 at the Barrington Theatre in Ferndown.

Tickets are free, but entry is by donation on the door where donations will go to Operation Crossbow fundraising appeal.

Des Curtis will also be signing copies of his book, “A Most Secret Squadron” and an auction will be held for a signed print of a Mosquito.

The meeting is open to the public, so advanced booking is advised due to the limited number of seats.

Seats can be reserved by e-mail at mossytalk@outlook.com.