Geograph - photograph every grid square

This MkI Bristol Blenheim is the only flying example in the world, and at the outbreak of WW2 when it entered service with the RAF, there were more Blenheims in service than any other type of aircraft. It operated as a twin engined light bomber, and was the first aircraft type to over fly Germany at the outbreak of the war. It suffered appalling losses against the Messerschmitt Bf 109 and Bf 110, after which it had some success as a night fighter before being supplanted by the introduction of the faster, better armed Bristol Beaufighter in 1941.

Fully restored to flying condition in 1993, it crashed whilst attempting to land at Duxford in 2003. Since then some 26,000 hours have been spent by the Aircraft Restoration Company at Duxford restoring her back to flying condition. This was finally realised when she flew for the first time since the accident at the VE Day Anniversary Air Show at the Imperial War Museum at Duxford in 2015. As part of the restoration process, the aircraft was converted from a MkIV to a MkI which involved shortening the nose. Having made her first ever appearance at Bournemouth this year, it's hoped she will become a regular visitor to Bournemouth Air Festivals in future.