AN OUTSTANDING NEW OIL PAINTING
	Tally Ho! by Philip E. West Flt. Lt. Geoffrey Wellum of 92 Squadron once again takes his trusted Spitfire into attack high over southern England. Any moment now both he and one other Spitfire pilot will be flying into hell amongst at least a dozen Luftwaffe He111s on their way to drop their bombs on London. Geoffrey Wellum together with other pilots of Fighter Command became “One of the Few” and fought with courage and determination. An original oil on canvas painting measuring (unframed) approximately 20” x 12” / 51cms x 30.5cms The painting is signed on the reverse of the canvas by Squadron Leader Geoffrey Wellum DFC (please see below for further details) Price: £3750 Would you like to become the proud owner of this exciting new painting depicting Geoffrey Wellum in action defending our country? Here is your unique chance! Squadron Leader Geoffrey Wellum DFC joined the RAF with a Short Service Commission in August 1939.  He joined92 Squadron flying Spitfires in June 1940 at the time of Dunkirk. He flew throughout the Battle of Britain, later completing over 50 fighter sweeps and escorts over northern France and Belgium until August 1941.  He then joined 65 Squadron as Flight Commander in March 1942 operating over northern France and flew off Aircraft Carrier Furious on operation Pedestal, to Malta. (Geoff was a Flt. Lt. during “Operation Pedestal”) He returned to the UK as a test pilot Gloster Aircraft and finished the war as a Pilot Attack Instructor. Geoff was credited with three destroyed, four probables and several damaged and was awarded the DFC in July 1941.   Geoff’s Best Selling book “First Light”, recalling his wartime flying career, is highly recommended by SWA Fine Art. To give you some idea of the popularity of this book, sales to date have exceeded 500,000 copies!  You can purchase a copy and have it signed by Geoff on the day.

	Mosquito Pathfinders Groundcrew busy themselves readying their de Havilland Mosquito as the aircrew head out towards the Aeroplane for yet another mission to a high value target over occupied Europe during WW2. Their dangerous job as Pathfinders is to accurately mark and bomb the target for the main heavy bomber force. It required great skill in navigation, airmanship and courage. The Mosquito proved to be a real thoroughbred and idea for many varied combat sorties so earning the nick-name The Wooden Wonder. The painting measures 12" x 24" or approximately 30cms x 61cms and it is signed on the back of the canvas by the RAF's top night-fighter pilot of WW2,  Wing Commander Branse Burbridge DSO* DFC* AFC Price: £3950.00 Signer’s details:- Wing Commander Branse Burbridge DSO and Bar, DFC and Bar (85 Sqn. Pilot) gained his wings in 1941. Putting duty before personal feelings as a conscientious objectorBranse, together with his navigator, Bill Skelton, became known as “The Night Hawk Partners”.  The two of them went on to shoot down 21 enemy aircraft - 16 during a seven-month period.  The total included a Bf110 and three Ju88Gs during the night of 4-5 November 1944. Their officially credited 21 enemy aircraft destroyed made the pair the top night fighting crew in the whole of the RAF. Branse recalls, “I always tried to aim for the wings of enemy aircraft – and not the cockpit. I never wanted to kill anyone.” The citations for their awards paid tribute to both men setting “an unsurpassed example of outstanding keenness and devotion to duty”.

	Top Cover Flt/Lt John Dundas, having already notched up eleven victories to his name during the Battle of Britain 1940, is viewed out on the last patrol of the day off the Isle of Wight. In a few moments he will be heading back to his base at Middle Wallop. Days later, John Dundas shot down the then leading German air-ace, Major Helmut Wick. Sadly Dundas, in turn, lost his life to Wick's wingman. He had fought with bravery but like so many of 'the few' he paid the ultimate price, fighting for our freedom. The canvas measures 12" x 20" or approx. 30cms x 51cms and is signed on the back by these five distinguished Spitfire fighter pilots:- Billy Drake, Geoffrey Wellum, Frank Newman, Percy Beake and Doug Tidy. Price: £3350 Signers details:- Sqn. Ldr. Percival H. Beake DFC, AE joined the RAFVR at Bristol in April 1939. Flying from Whitchurch Airfield on some evenings and weekends he had completed 50 hours training on Tiger Moths when war was declared. However, the mobilisation of all aircrew in Volunteer Reserve and Auxiliary Units overwhelmed the flying training facilities available and he was posted to No. 3 Initial Training Wing at St. Leonards on Sea where keep fit exercises and ground studies were the order of the day. It was not until 26/3/1940 that he was posted to Redhill to commence flying training again from scratch. Training continued on different aircraft until 31/8/40 when he was posted to Hawarden where he first flew a Spitfire. After three weeks there he was posted to 64 Squadron at Leconfield. A month later the Squadron moved to Coltishall. It was not until 10/11/1940 that the Squadron was moved to Hornchurch in the London area by which time daylight raids by masses of enemy bombers had been discontinued in favour of night time raids. On February 2nd 1941 Percy made a forced landing in a field at Sheperdswell in Kent. He tried to make a wheels-down landing to save his aircraft but ended up head down in the mud. Percy’s aircraft was a write-off and he suffered concussion for which he was treated in the RAF Officers Hospital in Torquay. He did not get back to the Squadron until March 27th. On May 16th the Squadron was posted to Turnhouse near Edinburgh. On June 26th Percy complained to the CO about the lack of combat opportunity there and the following day he was posted to 92 Squadron at Biggin Hill. On July 8, having taken part in a mission over France, he was shot down by an Me 109 just after leaving the French coast but he managed to bale out over the sea and was picked up 18 miles east of Dover by an RAF Rescue Launch. Towards the end of October the Squadron moved to Digby in Lincolnshire and by the end of the year Percy had completed 100 operation sorties and was declared ‘tour expired’. In January 1942 Percy was posted to 601 Squadron which at the time was equipped with Aircobras. These aircraft had serious maintenance problems and were never made operational. However, the Squadron was re-equipped with Spitfires in March and was posted to Malta. The CO said “Beaky you are tour expired” so I can’t take you to Malta – you will have to go to instructing at an OUT. So it was he arrived at 58 OUT in Grangemouth on April 1st 1942. He remained instructing until the end of the year when he was posted to Harrowbeer in Devon as a founder member of a new squadron  - 193 – being formed to fly Typhoons. The Squadron became operational in April 1943. On February 8th 1944, whilst flying over France they were lucky to see some FW 190s returning to Gael airfield. Two were on their landing approach. The leader touched down successfully but was immediately attacked and destroyed by Percy’s Wing Commander who was leading the operation. The second FW had decided to go round again but Percy shot him down and the ‘190 burst into flames when it hit the ground. At the end of March 1944 Percy was posted to 84 Group Support Unit which had been formed as a reserve of potential leaders to replace the expected casualties in the build up to the invasion. At the end of May I was posted to command 164 rocket firing Typhoon Squadron based on Thorney Island, its CO having been shot down by flak on the previous day. Prior to D – Day the Squadron was exclusively employed attacking radar installations. On D – Day they carried out two armed reconnaissance’s in the Caen area. The first was uneventful but on the second one they were engaged by five FW 190’s. Percy shot one down but one Typhoon pilot was also lost. Percy was awarded a ‘Mention in Despatch’ on June 8th and the DFC on July 25th. The citation read as follows:- This officer has commanded the squadron for several months and during this period has led his formation on many sorties against heavily defended targets with good results. He is a first class leader whose great skill, thoroughness and untiring efforts have contributed materially to the successes obtained. Squadron Leader Beake has destroyed two enemy aircraft. He was amazed, baffled and disappointed to be then called by his Wing Commander after landing from an armed recce on August 13th to hear him say “Beaky you have just done your last ‘op’ – you are not to fly again until you get back tot eh UK and that is an order.” Percy’s (Beaky’s) protests were ignored and on being asked ‘why’ the Wing Commander said “You may not realise this but you are the longest surviving CO in my Wing and I want to send you home whilst you are still alive”. Back in the UK Percy was sent to the Fighter Leaders School where he was put in command of the Typhoon squadron and he remained in that capacity until he was demobbed in December 1945. On leaving the RAF he was granted the Air Efficiency Award. Sqn. Ldr. Douglas Tidy was born in 1023. Claiming to be 18 in early 1940 he joined the RAF. Defective eyesight that was discovered (despite charts learned and ‘magic white powder’) ended his career as a tyro pilot and by the summer of 1941 he was in he Operations Room at Portreath in Cornwall, happily still with Spitfires, those of 66 and 130 Squadrons. By 1942 he was in his way to the Middle East, having flown on his first twin-engined aircraft, a Wellington of 38 Squadron, as a Wireless Operator. After an attachment to the Transjordan Frontier Force at Zerka, he joined 74 Squadron which was assisting B24s of the 98th Bomb Group, United States Army Air Corps at Ramat David in Palestine. He served under five Commanding Officers with 74 Squadron, before joining 244 Squadron with Blenheims at Sharjah in the Persian Gulf and later with Wellingtons on Masirah Island. From there he went to Aden and back to the UK with redundant aircrew to Mosquitoes at Haverfordwest. Group Captain Billy Drake DSO, DFC*, DFC (US) joined the RAF on a Short Service Commission in July 1936. He joined No. 1 Squadron at RAF Tangmere in May 1937 flying the Hawker Fury before converting to the Hawker Hurricane. He flew Hurricanes in France at the outbreak of war, scoring his first victory in May 1940. Having achieved two further victories over France he was shot down and wounded by a Messerschmitt BF 110. In October 1940 he returned to operational duty with No 213 Squadron at RAF Tangmere, flying Spitfires. Posted to the Western Desert in early 1942, Billy Drake took command of 112 Squadron, flying P40 Kittyhawks, leading them with considerable success. He later served in Malta, and then as Wing Leader of 20 Typhoon Wing. Billy Drake was an outstanding Ace, scoring 24 ½ victories and in addition, another 13 aircraft on the ground. Although one of the only two pilots in this photo not to receive a DFC in June 1940 (having been shot down and wounded on 13 May), he was to end the war as the most successful of all this group of outstanding fighter pilots. He had by then been promoted to Wing Commander, and had claimed some 28 aircraft shot down (three of which were shared and two unconfirmed), plus 15 more destroyed on the ground. He had also been awarded a DSO, DFC and Bar, and a US DFC. He remained in the RAF post-war, becoming a Group Captain. Squadron Leader Geoffrey Wellum DFC joined the RAF with a Short Service Commission in August 1939.  He joined no 92 Squadron flying Spitfires in June 1940 at the time of Dunkirk.  He flew throughout the Battle of Britain, later completing over 50 fighter sweeps and escorts over northern France and Belgium until August 1941.  He then joined 65 Squadron as Flight Commander in March 1942 operating over northern France and flew off Aircraft Carrier Furious on operation Pedestal, to Malta.  (Geoff was a Flt. Lt. during “Operation Pedestal”) He returned to the UK as a test pilot Gloster Aircraft and finished the war as a Pilot Attack Instructor. Geoffrey Wellum was credited with three destroyed, four probables and several damaged and was awarded the DFC in July 1941. Geoff’s Best Selling book “First Light”, recalling his wartime flying career, is highly recommended by SWA Fine Art. To give you some idea of the popularity of this book, sales to date have reached 500,000 copies! The book is available to order through most book shops. Alternatively, the book can be ordered online at www.Amazon.co.uk Flight Lieutenant Newman left O.T.U. to join 131 Squadron at Tangmere in time to participate in the closing months of the Battle of Britain. As the enemy activity diminished so the policy of Fighter Command turned to offensive sweeps over western France. By the end of 1942 the A.O.C decided to give the squadrons of 11 Group a rest from their intensive operations, so 131 Squadron was posted to northern Scotland to defend Scapa Flow naval base. This routine series of operations came to an end when Frank was chosen, together with a number of other experienced pilots, to form a fighter wing for the invasion of North Africa. My mid-1943 Rommel and the African Corps had been swept out of Algeria and Tunisia by General Montgomery and the Eighth Army. After a short rest the Desert Air Force was heavily engaged in the invasion of Sicily and Italy. By this time Frank was transferred to join the already famous 92 Squadron where he was pleased to come under the command of such experienced pilots as Group Captain Brian Kingcome and Squadron Leader Neville Duke. For the next few months 92 Squadron was heavily involved in a twice-weekly patrol over the Anzio Bridgehead where they occasionally met small units of the Luftwaffe. It was at this point that the squadron was hoping to score its 300th enemy aircraft destroyed. This happened on the 17th February 1944 and it was time for a squadron celebration! The enemy continued to appear in small numbers and later in the year whilst leading a dusk patrol Frank Newman and his fellow pilots were able to add to this score so that by the end of the campaign the total score reached 317½ definitely destroyed and over 200 probably destroyed. Any further increase in this number of victories was made impossible when the squadron was switched to fighter/bombers in late 1944; for this, tactics were so different. Each Spitfire carried a 500lb bomb and was given a map reference for his target by the army ground force. After the war Fl. Lt. Newman was sent on a training course to be become a Test Pilot. Upon completion of the course he was appointed Test Pilot at the R.A.F.’s biggest maintenance units (132 M.U.) where he enjoyed the privilege of flying thirty-one different types of aircraft.

	Spitfires over the Needles June 1940, The Battle of Britain by Philip E. West Canvas size: 14" x 26" approx 35cms x 66 cms. Spitfires of 609 Squadron returning to their satellite station airfield at Warmwell to re-arm and re-fuel, following an intercept mission against enemy aircraft trying to disrupt shipping along the South Coast of England. Like many other RAF Squadrons, No 609 the (West Riding) Auxiliary Squadron distinguished itself in many great air battles with honour and courage. The canvas is signed on the reverse by these six distinguished WW2 Spitfire pilots: Billy Drake, Geoffrey Wellum, Pete Brothers, Frank Newman, Percy Beake and Doug Tidy. Price: £SOLD Please contact Sean if you would like to become the proud new owner of this magnificent painting.

Fleeting moments by Philip E. West Few people become a legend in their own lifetime. Douglas Bader was one such person. An exceptional pilot and leader. At the age of 21, as a young RAF officer, he had both legs amputated after he crashed his aircraft.  Through sheer guts and determination he learnt not only to walk again, but also fly, subsequently becoming the RAF’s most famous WW2 fighter pilot. Flying his Spitfire with the unmistakable DB markings, Wing Commander Bader with his wingman close by, heads home to Tangmere after another successful, action-packed day, taking on swarms of enemy aircraft intent on wreaking havoc over the south of England. The canvas measures unframed 10" x 18" / 25 x 46cms and it is signed on the back by three Battle of Britain pilots. Price: £SOLD

Home at Dusk by Philip E. West After another long day of dog-fighting with enemy aircraft, Flt. Lt. Geoffrey Wellum and his wingman from 92 Squadron make their way back to base as the sun sets over the River Thames. As sure as night follows day, both pilots are all too aware that tomorrow will bring more aerial combat and the ever present threat they may never live to see another sunset. The painting measures unframed 12" x 24” / 30 X 61cms and it is signed on the back of the canvas by Geoffrey Wellum DFC and Pete Brothers DSO, DFC & Bar Price: £SOLD

We Salute You A Tribute to Bomber Command by Philip E. West As night falls Lancaster bombers head out over Lincoln Cathedral on yet another highly dangerous mission over enemy territory. Lancaster aircraft first entered service in 1941, normally with a crew of seven whose average age was 22. With a top speed of 287mph and ability to carry a massive bomb load of 22,000lbs, Lancasters proved a formidable as well as reliable aircraft, one held in the highest regard by its young, though highly motivated crews.Despite increasingly capable aircraft like the Lancaster, a great deal was asked of Bomber Command crews and their aircraft, resulting in substantial losses. Of the 7373 Lancasters built 3677 were lost. From the over 125,000 involved in Bomber Command during the war 55,573 were killed, 8,000 wounded and 10,000 became prisoners of war. To all these brave men we owe a great debt of gratitude for their bravery. The canvas measures 25.5” x 19”/ 65 x 48cms. The painting has been signed on the back of the canvas by two of the original crew from “The Phantom of the Ruhr”.Ron Clark DFC Pilot and Lishman Easby, Wireless Operator. Price: £4350

Misty Morning by Philip E. WestThis oil painting measures unframed 15" x 30" / 30cms x 76cms. The Avro Lancaster was designed from the outset to build a bomber capable of reaching the heartland of the enemy. Put this together with Rolls Royce Merlin engines, and a superlative aircraft was born. No less than 59 Bomber Command units saw active service with the Lancaster, flying 156,000 sorties. Some 7377 aircraft were built by six factories producing five different variants of the Lancaster. Here is a typical wartime scene. Lancaster's from 35 Squadron are being prepared for yet another Pathfinder mission, with the ground crew busy servicing, rearming and refuelling the aircraft.A unique opportunity for you to own this superb painting, which captures so evocatively the atmosphere on this early autumn morning as the ground crew feverishly prepare this magnificent Lancaster aircraft for the daunting day ahead of the it and the crew. Between them, the men below who have signed this painting have a combined total of 245 ops. Can you imagine such a painting in your home? SOLD Adding interest to the painting the back of the canvas has been signed by these remarkable former WW2 aircrew: Warrant Officer Rupert Noye, DFC. Flew 72 Operations. Rear Gunner. Began his flying career as a rear gunner on Wellingtons and then Lancasters with 166 Squadron. Flt. Lt. Don Briggs DFC. Flt Eng. 62 ops on 156 squadron. After the war he qualified as a pilot and flew Valiants, Victors and the Vulcan – Don dropped the third and last Atom Bomb on Christmas Island. Flt. Lt. Ted Stocker Flt. Eng. DSO & DFC 35 Squadron. He flew a truly massive 108 ops. Sqd. Ldr. George ‘Johnny’ Johnson DFM (Dambuster Bomb Aimer, 617 Squadron) was chosen by Joe McCarthy to join his crew before they were all transferred to 617 Squadron. Flying in AJ-T, with American pilot Joe McCarthy and crew they attacked the Sorpe Dam from 30 feet, for which Johnny was awarded the DFM. Johnny went on to fly 40 missions with Joe McCarthy at the controls.

Phantoms and the Ark Royal by Philip E. WestThis oil painting measures unframed 20 " x 36" / 51cms x 91cms. Pictured during her final call to duty. The Royal Navy’s majestic aircraft carrier, HMS Ark Royal, sailed into wind to recover Phantoms returning from a CAP mission. In operational service the Phantom provided immense additional capability to the Fleet Air Arm. Mach 2 performance, impressive range, all-weather strike and air defence. In the 1970s Ark Royal had a complement of 2250 crew, 2640 including air staff. Her 39 aircraft comprised 892 Sqn Phantoms, 809 Sqn Buccaneers, 849 Sqn Gannets, 824 Sqn Sea Kings plus two Ship's Flight Wessex helicopters and one Gannet for Carrier Onboard deliveries. She entered HMNB Devonport for the last time on 4 December 1978 and decommissioned on 14 February 1979, when the White Ensign was lowered for the last time. So ended the illustrious career of R09. A much loved and respected ship. A truly magnificent painting. Price: £4350

Home is the Hunter
by Philip E. West

The Hawker Hurricane, long remembered as the 'other fighter' of the Battle of Britain. Available in large enough numbers prior to the battle, the aircraft proved to be the mainstay of the RAF and went on to record a formidable reputation as a robust machine offering its pilots a steady gun platform. In terms of victories over enemy aircraft it was the most successful of all British fighters.

This particular Hurricane was the aircraft of Wg. Cdr. Tom Neil DFC* AFC AE of 249 Squadron based at North Weald December 1940. After another long day of confronting enemy aircraft, the pilot has left his trusted aircraft in the safe hands of highly respected groundcrew.
Tom was one of the RAF's most successful fighter pilots, credited with 17 victories, the majority of which being claimed during the Battle of Britain.This magnificent painting beautifully captures the atmosphere and harsh conditions endured by pilots and ground crew alike during the winter of 1940.

Price: £SOLD

The canvas measures 24” x 14” / 61cms x 36cms and it is personally signed on the back in permanent ink by two famous Hurricane pilots:

Wing Commander Peter Ayerst DFC. Few RAF pilots flew operationally from the beginning to the end of the Second World War. Fewer still can claim to have experienced action from Dunkirk and the Battle of Britain, El Alamein and the D-Day landings, to bomber escort duty in the closing days of the war in Europe. Peter Ayerst is one such man. Peter joined the RAF in 1938 on a short service commission and was dispatched to France when war broke out. After serving with legendary fighter ace Douglas Bader, Peter was posted to North Africa in 1942 where he was forced to crash-land his Hurricane in a minefield. Peter flew Spitfires on intruder sorties over France before and during D-Day, on bomber escort duty against V-weapons sites and in support of mass daylight raids deep into Germany. Awarded the DFC in December 1944, he also flew as fighter escort to King George VI's Dakota. By the war's end, Peter had flown every mark of Spitfire and Hurricane in the RAF's inventory! This stood him in good stead after the war when he worked with famous test pilot Alex Henshaw: he was part of the flight-test crew when Henshaw rolled a Lancaster.

Air Commodore Peter Brothers DSO, DFC & Bar learnt to fly at the age of 16 and joined the RAF two years later in 1936.  He first saw action in1940 when as a Flight Commander in 32 Squadron, based at Biggin Hill, he flew his Hurricane against the fighters and bombers of the Luftwaffe. He recalls this an intensely busy period, during which he shot down an Me109 - his first enemy aircraft;
by the end of August that same year his tally of enemy aircraft shot down, increased to eight. Awarded the DFC, he was transferred to 257 Squadron where he joined Bob Stanford-Tuck as Flight Commanders. Promoted in 1941 to Squadron Leader, Pete Brothers then took command of 457 Squadron (Royal Australian Air Force), equipped with Spitfires. A year later when 457 Squadron returned to Australia, Pete took command of 602 Squadron. In the early autumn of 1942 he went on to become Wing Leader of the Tangmere Wing, succeeding his old friend Douglas Bader. By the end of the war Pete Brothers had amassed 875 operational hours over a 44-month period. He was credited with having personally shot down 16 enemy aircraft and damaged many more.  He later went on to command 57 Squadron during the Malaya Campaign. Upon return to the UK Pete Brothers joined the V-Force, flying Valiant-4 jet bombers. He retired in 1973.

Spitfire Scramble

£ SOLD

Towards Victory

£ SOLD

Pathfinder Force

by Philip E. WestPassing low over Norwich Cathedral on this wintry evening, Pathfinder Mosquitoes begin to transit east from their bases on yet another dangerous night-time mission over enemy territory. They will take the lead on this bombing mission and their role is to identify and mark pre-planned targets with flares, enabling the main force of Lancaster and Halifax aircraft to drop their bombs as accurately as possible.The Pathfinders were elite squadrons in RAF Bomber Command. Like all aircrew, these brave men took the fight to the enemy night after night until
victory was achieved.

This oil on canvas painting measures 18" x 30" / 46cms x 76cms.

£ SOLD

The back of the canvas is signed in ink by the following Pathfinder aircrew, making the painting of even greater historical interest.Sqn. Ldr. Bill Lucas DFC   (Pilot)
Sq. Ldr. Tommy Broom DFC  (Navigator)
Flt. Lt. Douglas Hadland (Navigator)

From Dawn to Dusk

£ SOLD

The Night Shift

£ SOLD

Channel Dash Heroes

Almost Home
by Philip E. West

Overall canvas size: 18”h x 30”w

After another long, hard night’s mission over Germany, Flt. Lt. ‘Rusty’ Waughman of 101 ‘Special Duties’ Squadron, once again brings his aircraft and trusting crew back across the English Channel, heading for their home base of Ludford Magna, Lincolnshire.Many of the 101 Squadron Lancasters flew with an extra, German speaking, crew member, whose job it was to use onboard transmitters to jam the radio frequencies of German night-fighters.

This painting is signed on the back of the canvas
by the pilot Rusty Waughman.

Price: £SOLD

Only the Brave

by Philip E. West

A Lysander prepares to leave its base on yet another dangerous and secret mission to drop agents into occupied France during WW11. Agents and Pilots alike took great personal risk during these operations. Pilots having to navigate by map, timing and sight, find and land in fields in the dead of night. Agents having to slip away into the countryside, constantly aware that the enemy could discover them at any moment. They were the bravest of the brave.

This painting is signed on the reverse of the canvass by SOE Lysander pilots Flt. Lt. R G (Bob) Large, DFC, Legion d’Honneur and
 Flt. Lt. Murray Anderson, DFC*, US Air MedalCanvas size:  12” x 22” / 30 cms x 56cms.

Price: £ SOLD

"Nine O Nine": No Turning Back

Spitfires High Patrol
A new, original oil on canvas painting byPhilip E. West 

OU-V, flown by Flt Lt 'Jonny' Houlton, together with his wing man in their Spitfire Mk9’s , are escorting a section of Lancaster bombers on-route to a target somewhere over occupied Europe in 1944. Jonny Houlton was credited with the first confirmed air victory on D-Day.Today the same aircraft, but now a two-seater, is owned and flown by Caroline Grace. 

Canvas measures approx. 24” x 12” / 61cms x 30.5cms

£ SOLD

The back of the canvas is signed in ink by the following Spitfire pilots, making the painting of even greater historical interest.Wing Commander Peter Ayerst DFC (Pilot)
Flt. Lt. R G (Bob) Large, DFC, Legion d’Honneur (Pilot)
Squadron Leader Neville Duke, DSO OBE DFC** AFC CzMC 

Ready for Action

by Philip E. West

Canvas size: 10” x 18” / 25.5cms. x 46cms

The de Havilland Mosquito was one of the most outstanding British built aircraft of the Second World War. It was first proposed as a fast, unarmed bomber. However, once in service it proved to be extremely versatile and was produced in great numbers in various variants, fighter, bomber, photo reconnaissance and many more. The "Wooden Wonder" became a true thoroughbred.The painting is signed on the back of the canvas in permanent ink by these distinguished pilots: Wing Commander Branse Burbridge DSO and Bar, DFC and Bar, the RAF’s top night-fighter pilot. Also, ‘Hilly’ Hilliard, former Mosquito pilot with the Banff and Pathfinder squadrons.

£ SOLD

Spitfires - Masters of the Air

by Philip E. West

Canvas size: 10” x 20” / 25.5 x 51cms.

At the end of another days hard air combat fighting over the war-torn skies of England, Spitfires of 92 Squadron enjoy a rare, peaceful moment prior to returning to base during the "Battle of Britain". The few prevailed and gave us the freedom we enjoy to this day.
The painting is signed on the back of the canvas in permanent ink by these distinguished pilots: Air Commodore Peter Brothers CBE, DSO, DFC & Bar;
Geoffrey Wellum DFC and Neville Duke DSO, OBE, DFC*, AFC.

£ SOLD

Together We Stand

by Philip E. West

Canvas size: 10” x 20” / 25.5 x 51cms.

The Douglas Dakota was undoubtedly one of the most important allied aircraft of the Second World War. The aircraft served in a variety of roles including paratroop-dropping, glider-towing, casualty evacuation to transporting all sorts of materials from food to weapons of war. It did it all and in doing so,
helped win the war.

Price: £2750.00 - RESERVED

The Memphis Belleby Philip E. WestOver three years of continuous air combat the 91st Bombardment Group "The Ragged Irregulars" were based at Bassingbourn in England. They flew 340 missions with honor and bravery, over occupied Europe and bore such B-17 legends as "Memphis Belle", "Shoo Shoo Baby", "General Ike" and "Nine 'O' Nine. On this day, however, the Memphis Belle is going to have to wait for the snow to be clear before it can depart on yet another dangerous mission over enemy territory. In the meantime, to enable the “Memphis Belle” to leave at the earliest opportunity when the weather clears, groundcrew carry on with their maintenance work in support of a crew and aircraft they all look upon with affection and admiration.Canvas size: 12” x 24” / 30.5 x 61cms.

£ SOLD

Full Throttle

by Philip E. West

Overall canvas size 30” x 18”

This remarkable aircraft first entered combat service in 1986. Reaching speeds of mach 1.2 at sea level the B1-B is not only the fastest bomber in American service, it also carries the largest payload of any current bomber.

Price: £1250

Tornado Strike

by Philip E.

WestOil on canvas painting.

Size: 30” x 18”

Price: £3950.00

Today's RAF Tornado's and the aircrew that fly them offer a world-class interdiction/ground attack and reconnaissance package that is second to none. The Tornado GR4 is capable of supersonic speeds and flight at low-level, making it one of the most potent attack aircraft in the world today. New systems and weapon's upgrades will ensure that the Tornado remains a versatile, effective and vital platform for many years to come

On the Prowl

by Philip E. West

Original oil painting size 24” x 12”

Price: £2995

Focke-Wulf FW 190. When this purposeful looking, squat, angular aircraft first appeared in the skies over France in 1941 it came as quite a shock and soon gained a reputation and the nickname ‘Butcher Bird’. A superb fighting machine, it served the Luftwaffe in many variants throughout the war.

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Guardians of the Reich

by Philip E. West
Original oil painting size 24” x 12”

£SOLD

Messerschmitt Me 262. With a sleek shark-like fuselage, revolutionary swept back wings and Jumo turbine engines, it must have been a sight to see one autumn day in 1944 when seen for the first time. The 262 represented the Luftwaffe’s most potent air weapon during World War 2; however, not enough were produced in time to make a decisive difference to the outcome.

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“Guardians of the Reich” signed by General Gunther Rall who flew Me109s throughout the Battle of Britain. He finished the war with 275 victories, making him the third highest scoring pilot in history.

Also signed by Major Hans-Ekkeehard Bob who also flew Me109s in the Battle of Britain as well as the Polish and French campaigns. He also flew Fw 190s and Me262s in over 700 combat missions during which he achieved 59 victories. Feldwebel Adolf Denz has also signed the paintings. He flew Me 110s, Me 210s and later Me109s on the Russian front.

Jaguar Patrol

by Philip E. West

Originally built as a joint effort between Great Britain and France, the SEPECAT Jaguar has over the years of service, more than lived up to it's powerful feline name, providing the RAF with a supersonic ground attack and reconnaissance platform. During combat and support missions the 'Big Cat' has proven to be a very reliable and potent asset.

Oil on canvas painting. Size: 30” x 18”

Price: £3950.00

Spitfires – High Patrol

by Philip E. West

A magnificent new painting from the studio of Philip West.

A gathering section of 124 Squadron Spitfires led by Peter Ayerst climbs for height above the bomber stream and a lone Mosquito. This Squadron plus many others was tasked with protecting the bombers over occupied Europe. For these long range missions the Spitfires carry 90 Gallon 'Slipper Tanks' to extend the relatively short endurance of the aircraft. In combat with enemy fighters they would jettison the tanks. However, following a shortage, they were encouraged to bring them back if they possibly could.Canvas size: 18” x 30” and signed on the back by former Spitfire pilots Wing Commander Peter Ayerst DFC, Flight Lieutenant R G (Bob) Large, DFC, Legion d’Honneur, and Peter Twiss OBE, DSC and Bar

£ SOLD

Commissioned Painting
£ SOLD

This painting was commissioned. If you would like to have a no-obligation chat about commissioning a painting, please call or email us.

On a Wing and a Prayer

by Philip E. WestCanvas size: 10” x 20” / 25.5 x 51cms.

The venerable Fairy Swordfish was the Fleet Air Arms premier torpedo-bomber at the outbreak of World War 11. It may have looked archaic in appearance, but its courageous crews proved time and time again that it was a potent fighting machine. 'Stringbags' as they were affectionately known, served in several important roles and theatres including Coastal Command, the Mediterranean and flying from MAC-ships protecting North Atlantic and Arctic convoys.

This painting is signed in permanent ink on the back of the canvas by no less than five distinguished Swordfish aircrew. Sub. Lt. John Moffatt, CPO Les Sayer MBE, DSM; Lt. Cdr. Edgar Lee DSO, VRD, MBE, RNR; CPO Donald Bunce CGM; Cpt. A.. Sutton CBE, DSC*.

£ SOLD

Two’s Company £ SOLD

Night of Heroes – The Dambusters

by Philip E. West

17th May 1943. Lancaster's from 617 Squadron deliver a surprise attack on the Ruhr dams with specially designed, unique bouncing bombs invented by Barns Wallis. Wing Commander Guy Gibson is shown drawing defensive fire away from
Flt Lt Maltby's aircraft as it passes over the Mohne, just as his mine explodes
and breaches the dam.This oil painting is signed on the reverse of the canvas in permanent ink by  former Dambusters: Flying Officer Raymond E. Grayston (Flight Engineer of AJ-N, Les Knights Lancaster.) and Squadron Leader George L. Johnson DFM (Bomb Aimer on AJ-T, American Joe McCarthy’s Lancaster.

£ SOLD

Enemy Coast Ahead – The Dambusters 

by Philip E. West 

Lancasters of 617 Squadron, led by Wing Commander Guy Gibson begin their low level cross channel dash towards the enemy coast on the way to the heart of the Ruhr. The aircraft were arranged in three waves. The first wave comprised three groups of three aircraft at 10 minute intervals and headed towards the Mohne, Sorpe and Eder dams. The second wave of five Lancasters headed direct to the Sorpe whilst the third wave of five, would act as backup. Eight Lancasters failed to return from the raids, a high cost indeed, but the courage and determination displayed by the crews were in  the best tradition of the RAF.This oil painting is signed on the reverse of the canvas in permanent ink by  former Dambusters: Flying Officer Raymond E. Grayston (Flight Engineer of AJ-N, Les Knights Lancaster.) and Squadron Leader George L. Johnson DFM (Bomb Aimer on AJ-T, American Joe McCarthy’s Lancaster.

£ SOLD

Those Were The Days

by Philip E. West

Many hundreds of young aspiring men and women gained their coveted RAF wings flying the Tiger Moth. Training could be tough and one needed determination as well as skill to complete it. With their newly awarded “wings”, some pilots would move onto fly bombers, some to fighters like the Spitfire and Hurricane and many others to a wide variety of different aircraft types.

£ SOLD

No Room For Error

by Philip E. West

Capt Eric (Winkle) Brown launches his Seafire TM379, from the deck of the trials carrier HMS Pretoria Castle in July 1945. Unlike other carriers, those used for trials, usually had their decks clear of other aircraft. On this day, once the aircraft is launched the carrier’s crew streamed onto the deck to check the surface and clear anything that may obstruct a landing. TM379, was the first prototype, Seafire Mk 45 and was fitted with a Rotol contra prop, modified fin, rudder and tail hook.

£ SOLD

The winter of ’41 is remembered well by Geoffrey Wellum, pilot of Spitfire ‘G’ for George. Bitter cold and heavy snow during this Battle of Britain period made flying conditions almost unbearable. The ground-crew’s job at RAF Manston, never easy at the best of times, involved working in all weathers to keep the aircraft in a state of readiness for the pilots to return to the battle at the earliest opportunity.

£ SOLD

A

Winter’s Dawn

This peaceful scene at East Kirkby in the winter of 1944 gives a very real feel for the vitally important work undertaken by ground crew in all weathers. At this stage of the war, to help identification at a distance, the tail fins of 57-squadron Lancasters wore a black vertical bar on a red background. The squadron flew on 348 raids, with 108 Lancasters lost in action plus 31 in accidents.

£ SOLD

Oil on Canvas: 12” x 24” / approx. 30.5cms x 61cms.
The painting is signed on the back by Flt. Lt. Philip Ainley DFC (33 Ops.)

Winter of 44
by Philip E. West 

Fighter, bomber, night-fighter, reconnaissance together with many other variants made the P-38 Lightning one of the most adaptable and respected aircraft of World War 2. The P-38 serving in Europe and the Mediterranean theatre, earned it the German nickname 'The fork-tail devil'. The total number of P-38s built was 9,924.This beautiful oil on canvas painting measures 12” x 28” / approx. 30cms x 71cms.

£ SOLD

The Eye of the Storm

by Philip E. West

Overall canvas size 38” x 24”

Wing Commander Gibson’s aircraft in the foreground and Flt. Lt. Martins in the distance, both draw flak away from Sqn. Ldr. Young’s Lancaster after it has dropped it’s ‘Bouncing Bomb’ and makes its escape over the Mohne Dam. Lead by Wing Commander Guy Gibson, 19 Lancaster's departed their home base in three waves, each aircraft armed with a single bouncing bomb developed by Barnes Wallis. The targets were German dams in the heart of the industrial Ruhr. The resulting attacks breached the Mohne and Eder Dams with attempts also on the Sorpe and Schwelme Dams. For his leadership and courage, Gibson was awarded the Victoria Cross. 34 other men also received decorations.

£ SOLD

Legends of the Air

by Philip E. West

Original oil on canvas painting.

Size: 40” x 20”

£ SOLD

Signed on the reverse by three former 617 Squadron pilots, including the legendary Commanding Officer Group Captain James Tait DSO & Bar, DFC, ADC.

Probably the most famous RAF Squadron in history, mainly due to the audacious Dambuster raid in 1943. Other notably successful missions included precision raids on the mighty Tirpitz, U-boat pens, railways, V-weapons sites, canals and bridges.Through their skill and bravery 617 crews received many high honours including V.C's for Wing Commander Guy Gibson and Wing Commander Leonard Cheshire.

The Luftwaffe Collection

Looking for Trouble

by Philip E. West
Original oil painting size 24” x 12”

£ SOLD

Messerschmitt Bf 109. The longest-serving of all German interceptors. This classic aircraft was the cornerstone of the Luftwaffe’s fighter force throughout the second world war, built in greater numbers than any other fighter and credited with more air victories than any other in history.

back of painting

Farewell Concorde

by Philip E. West

Original oil on canvas painting.

Overall size 36” x 24”

£ SOLD

As Concorde G-BOAF accelerates into the setting sun her speed will soon outpace the earth’s rotation. The 100 passengers will now have the unforgettable experience of watching the sun rising from the west. At 50,000 feet, the cruising speed of Mach 2 (1,320 mph) is reached; but the climb gently continues towards 60,000 feet. Here, on the threshold of space, the passengers will dine. Three and a half hours after take-off from London, Concorde reaches New York. On 26th November 2003 this aircraft returned to its first home, Filton, Bristol – probably never to fly again.

Supreme Courage

£ SOLD

The Persuaders

by Philip E. West

Much loved by its crews, the mighty delta winged 'Avro Vulcan' was designed to perform Britain's nuclear deterrent bomber role during the Cold War. It carried out this responsibility for more than a decade. The aircraft also served as a tanker, low-level attack and maritime radar reconnaissance platform, before finally being called to war action in the Falklands conflict where it provided long-range bombing capabilities, attacking surface targets and Stanley Airport.

Canvas size unframed:  30" x 12"  or approx. 76cms. x 30cms. 

This painting is signed by five former Vulcan pilots.

£ SOLD

Winter of ‘45

by Philip E. West

American built, British inspired and once re-engined with the Merlin, the mighty Mustang became a supreme long-range escort fighter and close air support platform. 'Old Crow' was the mount of Clarence E. Anderson based at Leiston, England, with the 357th FG, 363rd FS. Anderson’s personal victory score during WW11 was 16¼ in air combat. 

Canvas size unframed:  24" x 12" or approx. 61cms x 30cms.

£ SOLD 

"The Guardians"
£ SOLD

Portrays legendary Hurricane pilot Pete Brothers (32 Sqn) and his wingman having recently taken off from Biggin Hill, now just over the White Cliff's of Dover during the period of the Battle of Britain.The unframed size of this outstanding oil on canvas painting is 12" deep x 24" wide. If you would like to add this superb new painting to your collection please contact us right away either by e-mail or Tel: 01225 444929.The painting is signed on the back of the canvas by Peter Brothers.PILOT DETAILS;

Air Commodore Peter Brothers DSO, DFC & Bar learnt to fly at the age of 16 and joined the RAF two years later in 1936. He first saw action in 1940 when as a Flight Commander in 32 Squadron, based at Biggin Hill, he flew his Hurricane against the fighters and bombers of the Luftwaffe. He recalls this an intensely busy period, during which he shot down a Me109 - his first enemy aircraft.At the end of August that same year his tally of enemy aircraft shot down, increased to eight. Awarded the DFC, he was transferred to 257 Squadron where he joined Bob Stanford-Tuck as Flight Commanders. Promoted in 1941 to Squadron Leader, Pete Brothers then took command of 457 Squadron (Royal Australian Air Force), equipped with Spitfires. A year later when 457 Squadron returned to Australia, Pete took command of 602 Squadron. In the early autumn of 1942 he went on to become Wing Leader of the Tangmere Wing, succeeding his old friend Douglas Bader. By the end of the war Pete Brothers had amassed 875 operational hours over a 44-month period. He was credited with having personally shot down 16 enemy aircraft and damaged many more. He later went on to command 57 Squadron during the Malaya Campaign. Upon return to the UK Pete Brothers joined the V-Force, flying Valiant-4 jet bombers. He retired in 1973.

"Evening Glory"
by Philip E. West

£ SOLD

Is full of the atmosphere and nostalgia we know our clients like to see in his paintings. This new oil painting portrays Geoff Wellum in his Spitfire, during an all-too rare quiet moment, one evening during the height of the Battle of Britain.The unframed size of this outstanding oil on canvas painting is
12" deep x 24" wide.The painting is signed on the back of the canvas by Geoffrey Wellum and Peter Brothers. Squadron Leader Geoffrey Wellum DFC joined the RAF with a Short Service Commission in August 1939. He joined no 92 Squadron flying Spitfires in June 1940 at the time of Dunkirk. He flew throughout the Battle of Britain, later completing over 50 fighter sweeps and escorts over northern France and Belgium until August 1941. He then joined 65 Squadron as Flight Commander in March 1942 operating over northern France and flew off Aircraft Carrier Furious on operation Pedestal, to Malta. (Geoff was a Flt. Lt. during
"Operation Pedestal") He returned to the UK as a test pilot Gloster Aircraft and finished the war as a Pilot Attack Instructor. Geoffrey was credited with three destroyed, four probables and several damaged and was awarded the DFC in July 1941. Geoff's Best Selling book "First Light", recalling his wartime flying career, is highly recommended by SWA Fine Art. To give you some idea of the popularity of this book, sales to date have reached 250,000 copies!

Wings of Dawn - £ SOLD

Operation Cerberus – The Channel Dash £ SOLD

Operation Judgement – The Channel Dash - £ SOLD

In the Mists of Time -£ SOLD

Against All Odds - £ SOLD

Price: Please enquire for details.
Canvas size: 12” x 24 (approx. 30.5cms. x 61 cms)

Signed on the back of the canvas by legendary Spitfire pilots:
Flt. Lt. Geoffrey Wellum DFC; Air Commodore Pete Brothers CBE,DSO, DFC & Bar, Wing Commander Paddy Barthropp DFC, AFC, Alex Henshaw MBE
and Squadron Leader Neville Duke DFC DSO** AFC CzMC. An outstanding of an actual event that happened in the Battle of Britain, signed by these remarkable men.Geoffrey Wellum joins combat head-on with a Dornier during the Battle of Britain. He was part of a small group of 10 spitfires from Biggin Hill facing 150 plus enemy bombers and fighters. Other friendly fighters joined battle but the defenders were still vastly out numbered, a scene repeated on many occasions in the summer of 1940. On this particular day Geoff scored a Heinkel destroyed, together with a Dornier as a probable.

Defending The Realm£ SOLD

Flight against the Bismarck£ SOLD

Those Golden Moments

As the sun slowly begins to rise this wintry morning over Thorpe Abbots, Norfolk, ground crew prepare B-17G “The All American Girl” in an almost surreal setting, for her 99th dangerous mission over enemy territory. On 10th January 1945, 19-year-old pilot, 1st Lt. John Dodrill and his crew went missing on a combat sortie to Cologne. Like many other crews, they made the ultimate sacrifice in the fight for freedom, with the ‘Bloody Hundredth’ Bombardment Group playing its full part with courage and honour.

£ SOLD

First Light

£ SOLD

Winter of 41

£ SOLD

Close Encounter

by Philip E. West

Overall size (unframed) 20” x 36”

Flight Lieutenant Bryan Colston, “A” Flight Commander – 225 Squadron in Spitfire Mk. VB, ER 660 attacks a German Transport Convoy on a mountain road near Sjedenane in Tunisia with Pilot Officer Melvyn Evans flying as his weaver – 6th March 1943.

Oil on canvas original painting.

£ SOLD

A Very Special Original Painting...

Over the Beaches

by Philip E. West

Oil on canvas painting.

Size 40” x 24”

In the early hours of 6th June 1944, the campaign to liberate Europe began following many months, if not years of planning and preparation. The RAF was heavily committed in support of allied land and sea forces flying combat air patrols, ground attack and reconnaissance missions. After a further year of fighting a hard fought victory was achieved.

£ SOLD

Making it truly unique and of historic interest as well as value, this magnificent oil painting is signed on the back of the canvas by Spitfire pilots Flt. Lt. John ‘Chips’ Carpenter DFC and Flying Officer Tom Hannam, both of whom flew ‘over the beaches’. Sadly, ‘Chips’ Carpenter passed away earlier this year. Please call without delay to secure this painting for your private collection.

Buccaneer Strike Force

by Philip E. West

Oil on canvas painting.

Size: 24” x 40”

£ SOLD

The Blackburn Buccaneer, in its heyday the worlds most advanced low-level, high-speed strike aircraft. The Buccaneer is remembered with affection and respect as a purposeful-looking, rock-steady aircraft offering a formidable strike weapons platform, flying low and fast over the wave-tops or land with equal effectiveness, on this occasion in the presence of HMS Ark Royal.

MISSION ACCOMPLISHED

- Philip West

36” x 24” Oil on canvas

Signed on the reverse of canvas by Sq. Ldr. Frank (Jerry) Fray

£ SOLD

18th May 1943, Sqn. Ldr. Frank (Jerry) Fray in his Spitfire PRX1 of 542 Squadron operating out of RAF Benson, Oxfordshire, returned alone and unarmed to gather photographic evidence of the Mohne Dam having been breached the day before by 617 Squadron. Jerry had previously flown over all three dams two days earlier to photograph them prior to the ‘Dambusters’ raid on 17th May. Even at 30,000 feet the disastrous effects of the flooding on the Ruhr valley below can be seen.

Cloud Companionsby Philip E. West

£ SOLD

SPITFIRES - MALTA BOUND by Philip E. West

£ SOLD

Supermarine Spitfire Mk 1
by Philip E. WestOil on canvas sketch 9½” x 16”

£ SOLD

High over the southern coast of England in 1940 a Spitfire (Mk 1) of 609 Squadron from Middle Wallop, flown by Flying Officer John Dundas, lies in wait for enemy aircraft (Junkers 87 divebombers) on their way to attack British naval installations
at Portland.

Hawker Hurricane Mk 1
by Philip E. West

Oil on canvas sketch 9½” x 16”

£ SOLD

The Hawker Hurricane was Britain’s most important aircraft in the Battle of Britain, credited with destroying more enemy aircraft than all other forms of defence combined. Flown by Flying Officer Arthur Cowes, the aircraft depicted shows seven kill markings displayed as stripes on the Hornet motif.

Above and Beyond

by Philip E. West

£ SOLD

The SR-71 Blackbird is the world's fastest and highest flying jet aircraft. For over 23 years, the SR-71s gathered highly classified intelligence around the world for the President of the United States, the Central Intelligence Agency, the National Security Agency, the Pentagon and other governmental agencies, allowing them to make crucial political and military decisions during the Cold War.

OUTWARD BOUND

- Philip West

36” X 24” Oil on canvas

£ SOLD

With the sun setting behind them fully loaded Lancaster bombers from 57 Squadron East Kirkby, Lincolnshire, make their way out over the English Channel on route to target. Each crew member knew the dangers ahead but gave of their best at all times.

Night Hawks

by Philip E. West

£SOLD

The Untouchable

by Philip E. West

£SOLD

Preparing for the Tirpitz

by Philip E. West

£SOLD

Safely Home

- Philip West

£SOLD

The Black Tulip

- Philip West

£SOLD

H.M.S. Ark Royal

- Philip West

£SOLD

Mosquito Attack

- Philip West

£SOLD

For sale on behalf of a customer whose move to a smaller house necessitates reducing the size of his large collection of paintings. Please contact us for details.

Operation Jericho – The Amiens Raid

- Philip West

£SOLD

For sale on behalf of a customer whose move to a smaller house necessitates reducing the size of his large collection of paintings. Please contact us for details.

"HEADING HOME "
£SOLD

SPITFIRE PATROL

30” x 18” Oil on canvas

£SOLD

One summers evening, Douglas Bader (flying the Mk V Spitfire without cannons) and Johnnie Johnson (flying the Mk VB Spitfire with cannons) of the Tangmere Wing, share a few moments of peaceful flying whilst on patrol over the English Channel.

"FINAL PREPARATIONS"
£SOLD

Soon to be cloaked in darkness, Wellington aircraft of 150 Squadron, RAF Newton, Nottinghamshire, prepare for another dangerous mission, never knowing if they would return.

"PHANTOM THUNDER"
£SOLD

An F4 Phantom of 92 Squadron, based at Wildenraf, Germany, about to embark on yet another QRA (Quick Reaction Alert) mission to intercept potential hostile aircraft during the Cold War. You can almost hear and feel the power of this incredible aircraft as it roars down the runway.

"MUTUAL SUPPORT "
£SOLD

The evening mist begins to settle on the bleak airfield at Ludford Magna, Lincolnshire, as Lancaster aircraft of 101 Squadron taxi out for another dangerous nighttime sortie. The nature of their assignments during the war was a closely guarded secret. The unusual aerials on the front and top of the aircraft were used for intercepting and jamming messages between German fighter aircraft and their ground control.

"TEAMWORK"
£SOLD

As night falls, Short Stirlings of XV Squadron based at RAF Mildenhall, Cambridgeshire, await their crews for yet another nocturnal mission. One of the almost forgotten Bomber Command aircraft that made a very significant contribution to the war effort.

"Loire Rendezvous"
by
Philip E. West
Oil on canvas.

£SOLD

"Tirpitz Re-visited"

£SOLD

Depicts Sqn. Ldr. Frank Dodd and P/O Eric Hill flying low under unexpected heavy fire in a ten-and-a-half-hour sortie to Tromso Fjord on 22nd March 1945, to obtain confirmation of the final demise of the pride of the German navy - the battleship Tirpitz.

"Final Encounter"

48" x 30" Oil on canvas.
£SOLD

Returning from a raid over Lorient, France on the 17th May 1943 the Boeing B-17 Flying Fortress "Memphis Belle" came under close attack from Fw190s and Me109s. Fortunately no aircraft were lost and very little damage sustained to the 91st Bomb Group aircraft during this mission - the 25th and final one in the "Memphis Belle" for Captain Robert Morgan

Named after Capt. Morgan's wartime sweetheart, Miss Margaret Polk, the "Memphis Belle" was based at Bassingbourn, England and was the first B-17 to complete 25 combat missions and keep her entire crew alive - this at a time when eight out of ten aircraft were being shot down over Europe. During ten months of service the "Memphis Belle" dropped over 60 tons of bombs on France, Belgium and Germany, shot down eight enemy fighters, and covered over 20,000 combat miles. The "Memphis Belle" is now on display in Memphis, Tennessee.

"Maximum Effort"

£SOLD

"Combat Rescue"
36" X 24" Oil on canvas

£SOLD

Once downed by enemy fire in North Vietnam, surviving US pilots were largely dependent on brave Skyraider, FAC and HH-53 Super Jolly helicopter crews to save them. Missions like this one in North Vietnam were always very dangerous, resulting in the loss of many rescue aircraft and their courageous crews. On this occasion the crewman on the ground has just broken cover and is about to be winched to safety by the Super Jolly helicopter crew under the protective cover of the Douglas A-1 Skyraiders - otherwise known by their call sign 'Sandy.' Keeping watch above is the Bronco spotter plane that first located the pilot on the ground, and then scoured the area ensuring there was no enemy threat to the rescue team.

Philip writes, "This is a painting I had wanted to work on for a long time. During the conflict in South East Asia, acts of heroism took place daily. None more so than the Skyraider and helicopter pilots flying as a 'Combat Rescue' team. Men of great courage and determination, who risked their lives to save others - actions that won them the respect and admiration of all around them. I am very pleased to record one such incident in my painting."

"Delta Lady"

36" x 24" Oil on canvas

£SOLD

Moments after take off, the mighty Avro Vulcan XH558 begins her majestic climb through storm clouds, out over the British countryside towards the North Sea. A masterpiece of British engineering excellence, with a crew of 5, she had a top speed of 625 mph and excelled at a height of 61,000 feet, as well as a remarkable low level capacity for avoiding radar detection. Built as a bomber and some 106 feet in length with a wingspan of 111 feet, she had no means of defending herself from attack.Philip writes, "Few of us who have had the good fortune to see a Vulcan bomber fly will ever forget the sight and sound! A spectacular aircraft that went on to perform an even more impressive role during the Falklands war flying combat missions, each lasting around 16 hours non-stop. I truly hope we will once again see Vulcan XH558 take to the skies after its restoration has been completed at Bruntingthorpe."

"Combat Over Korea"

40" x 30" Oil on canvas

£SOLD

The F-86 "Sabre" and MiG 15 were evenly matched. The MiG was smaller, and it could climb higher and faster. The Sabre was faster in level flight and in a dive, possessed a greater range and could turn tighter in a fast dive. The MiG had a single 37mm and two 23mm cannon, while the Sabre carried six 50 - caliber machine guns. On 19th July 1953 after his flight of four F-86s were set upon by 16 MiGs, John Glenn pursued and 'flamed' a MiG, the second of three he shot down during the Korean War. In total he flew 90 missions over Korea.After the Korean Armistice, John Glenn flew a Chance Vought F8U "Crusader" jet across America in a record-breaking time of 3 hours, 23 minutes, 8.4 seconds. On 20th February 1962 he became the first American to orbit this planet. he made three orbits around the earth whilst piloting the Mercury "Friendship 7" spacecraft. In the mid - 1970s he became a member of the US Senate
Philip writes, "Though often referred to as the 'Forgotten War', I think the people who fought in the Korean War deserve more credit than has thus far been given. My portrayal of John Glenn breaking hard after shooting down a MiG, gives us a feel for what it might have been like on that memorable day in July 1953.We can only try to imagine the feelings that went through the minds of both pilots, before and after the MiG was shot down. John Glenn's F-86 was 'his' aircraft to fly, as such his wife and children's names (LYN, ANNIE, DAVE) were painted on the fuselage. Known for his complaining about the lack of MiGs to attack, he went to his aircraft one morning to find MIG MAD MARINE had been painted on it in large letters!"

"Homeward Bound"

36" x 20" Oil on canvas

£SOLD

Struggling for height as she crosses the South coast of England, a damaged B-17 of the 91st Bomb Group heads home to Bassingbourne. With its bomb doors jammed open, an engine feathered and streaming smoke, the battle scarred B-17 and her injured crew are nearing the completion of yet another heroic mission over Germany.Shadowed for most of their way back by P-51Ds of the 352nd Fighter Squadron (353rd FG), the B-17 "Ragged Irregulars" were assured protection against enemy aircraft. Running very low on fuel after a long day of escort duties, the P-51 pilots will soon need to peel off and make for their base at Raydon. Philip writes, "With the best will in the world I don't think any of us non-military people can begin to imagine what it must be like to be shot at in a war situation, much less what it's like to be in an aircraft at the time. Time after time, the pilots and crew, if they were lucky enough to survive the last mission, were sent back into battle the next day. Both the P-51 and B-17 were incredible aircraft flown by men of truly extraordinary bravery. We all have a lot to thank them for."

"Chippy-Ho"

36" x 24" Oil on canvas

£SOLD

"Chippy Ho" and his wingman from VFA-195, hurtle through the sky with Mount Fuji in the background, armed and ready for action at a moment's notice. The McDonnell Douglas F-18 became the backbone of the US Navy and Marine Corps for the past twenty years. These two aircraft were based at Kadena AB, Okinawa and their armament consists of AIM-9L Sidewinders, AGM-88 missiles, sensor pods and drop tanks.Philip writes, "With its F/A -18C Hornet aircraft this squadron has always been a favourite of mine. I think the Hornet is such a fabulous aircraft to look at anyway, but I must admit I am also attracted to the terrific artwork on the fuselage! I am very reluctant to part with this painting but I need the space!"

36" x 24" Oil on canvas

£SOLD

An atmospheric painting that reminds us of the very real threat once posed by Russia to the United States during the Cold War era. On this occasion two F-15A Eagles have been scrambled from the 125th Fighter Wing based at Jacksonville IAP, Florida, to intercept a Russian Tupolev Tu-95 Bear long-range bomber.Philip writes, "I am intrigued by the Cold War era and how many of us lived through it oblivious for the most part, to the threat of attack from Russia. The burden of responsibility on the shoulders of these US pilots must have weighed heavily; one mistake could have proved fatal for many thousands, and potentially millions of people. In later years the F-15 gave a good account of itself in the Gulf War, destroying 33 Iraqi aircraft. This is another painting I am somewhat reluctantly parting with!"

£SOLD

"Phantom Patrol "
36" x 24" Oil on canvas

£SOLD

Passing between the Shetlands and the Faroe Islands a soviet Tupolev Tu-142 long-range surveillance aircraft is intercepted by two FG1 Phantoms out of Leuchars, Scotland. Loaded with a full missile fit and long-range tanks, the Phantoms escort the Bear away from the UK air defence regions, which cover around 4 million square miles. All incoming aircraft that have not filed a flight plan must be investigated. QRA (Quick Reaction Alert) aircrew are ready day or night, in all weather conditions, and always find their target. This scene would be a regular sight for QRA aircrew investigating Soviet aircraft.

Philip writes; "The Phantom is one of my all-time favourite aircraft. It's impossible not to be impressed with the Phantom's 'I mean business' appearance. It's a big aircraft, with a performance and weaponry to match. The aircraft in my painting served with distinction throughout 1969 - 1989, helping to keep our country safe, and it gives me enormous pleasure to record a piece of history that so many of us at the time took for granted."