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Reading the papers JLP01_08_062428
COVENTRY CATHEDRAL, PRIORY STREET, COVENTRY. Laing staff with a RAF officer reading a story in The Coventry Evening Telegraph. The story on the front cover refers to the successful installation of the fleche, the 80 ft bronze spire lowered on the roof of Coventry Cathedral by a RAF Belvedere helicopter.
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 23993816
Filename: jlp01_08_062428.jpg
Size: 5204 x 5256 (5.9MB)
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/
1960s Building Site Cathedral Construction People
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EDITORS COMMENTS
In this photo, we are transported back to the 1960s on a construction site at Coventry Cathedral. The image captures a moment of respite amidst the hustle and bustle, as Laing staff members gather around an RAF officer engrossed in reading The Coventry Evening Telegraph. Their attention is drawn to the front cover story about the successful installation of the fleche, an impressive 80 ft bronze spire that was lowered onto the cathedral's roof by a RAF Belvedere helicopter. This photograph is part of Operation Rich Man, a collaborative effort between Royal Air Force personnel and Laing staff. It showcases their remarkable achievement in hoisting such a monumental structure onto the new cathedral. However, due to unfavorable weather conditions, they had to postpone lowering the 1/2 ton cross that crowns the spire. The image exudes camaraderie and dedication as these individuals take pride in their contribution towards building something truly magnificent. It serves as a testament to human ingenuity and teamwork during this era of architectural marvels. Preserved by Historic England Archive, this snapshot offers us a glimpse into history - not just through its subject matter but also through its grainy texture and timeless appeal. As we admire this piece of heritage, let us appreciate those who labored tirelessly behind-the-scenes to shape our cities with enduring beauty.
