Rights Managed > Historic England > Industry > Engineering and Construction > Coventry Cathedral
Reading the papers JLP01_08_062428
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/
© Historic England Archive. John Laing Photographic Collection
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Historic England
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
Media ID 23993816
© Historic England Archive. John Laing Photographic Collection
1960s Building Site Cathedral Construction People
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.
MADE IN THE USA
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
FREE COLORIZATION SERVICE
You can choose advanced AI Colorization for this picture at no extra charge!
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Cart.
