Rights Managed > Historic England > Industry > Engineering and Construction > Coventry Cathedral
Operation Rich Man JLP01_08_062417
Filename: jlp01_08_062417.jpg
Size: 5208 x 5228 (4.9MB)
Date: 15th October 2021
Source: Historic England
Credit: A© Historic England Archive. Joh
Copyright Status: Copyrighted Work
Source: Historic England Archive
Owner URL: https://images.historicenglandservices.org.uk/
© Historic England Archive. John Laing Photographic Collection
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Historic England
Operation Rich Man JLP01_08_062417
COVENTRY CATHEDRAL, PRIORY STREET, COVENTRY. A group of people on the roof of Coventry Cathedral watching a RAF Belvedere helicopter making an attempted approach towards the cathedral.
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 23993778
© Historic England Archive. John Laing Photographic Collection
1960s Building Site Cathedral Construction
FEATURES IN THESE COLLECTIONS
> Industry
> Engineering and Construction
> Coventry Cathedral
> Transport
> Aircraft
> Helicopters
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print captures a remarkable moment during Operation Rich Man at Coventry Cathedral in the 1960s. The image showcases a group of individuals standing on the roof, their eyes fixed on an RAF Belvedere helicopter attempting to approach the cathedral. Operation Rich Man was a collaborative effort between Royal Air Force personnel and Laing staff, aimed at placing an impressive 80ft bronze spire atop the new cathedral. This particular photograph documents the thrilling stage when the helicopter was tasked with hoisting the spire into position. However, due to adverse weather conditions characterized by strong winds, another crucial aspect of this operation had to be postponed: lowering the half-ton cross that crowns the magnificent spire. The construction site surrounding Coventry Cathedral serves as a backdrop for this historic moment frozen in time. The image not only highlights human ingenuity and determination but also showcases how architectural marvels are brought to life through collaboration and innovation. Preserved by A© Historic England Archive, this print offers viewers a glimpse into an era where engineering feats merged seamlessly with artistic vision. It stands as a testament to both human ambition and resilience while reminding us of our ability to overcome challenges in pursuit of greatness.
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