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Image Licensing : Operation Rich Man JLP01_08_062439
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Operation Rich Man JLP01_08_062439
COVENTRY CATHEDRAL, PRIORY STREET, COVENTRY. A view over Coventry Cathedral from the tower of the old cathedral, showing a RAF Belvedere helicopter lowering the 80ft bronze spire on to the roof.
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. © Historic England Archive. John Laing Photographic Collection
Media ID 23993828
Filename: jlp01_08_062439.jpg
Size: 5227 x 6682 (5.0MB)
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/
1960s Aircraft Building Site Cathedral Construction Helicopter
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> Industry > Engineering and Construction > Coventry Cathedral
> Transport > Aircraft > Helicopters
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This print captures a historic moment during Operation Rich Man at Coventry Cathedral. From the vantage point of the old cathedral tower, we are treated to a breathtaking view of the new cathedral and an extraordinary sight: a RAF Belvedere helicopter delicately lowering an 80ft bronze spire onto its roof. Operation Rich Man was a remarkable joint project between Royal Air Force staff and Laing staff, aimed at erecting this magnificent structure. The photograph serves as a testament to their collaboration and ingenuity in overcoming construction challenges. The sheer scale of the operation becomes apparent when considering that even the 1/2 ton cross atop the spire had to be postponed due to windy conditions. It is awe-inspiring to think about the precision required for such an endeavor, as well as the bravery of those involved in maneuvering both aircraft and heavy materials. Beyond its historical significance, this image also showcases Coventry Cathedral's architectural beauty amidst its construction site setting. The juxtaposition of ancient ruins with modern machinery highlights humanity's ability to rebuild and create something truly remarkable from devastation. Preserved by A© Historic England Archive, this photograph invites us into a pivotal moment in Coventry's history – one where determination, skill, and innovation converged to shape not only a physical structure but also symbolize resilience and hope for generations to come.
