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Hamilton’s Lancaster is back safe and sound after her nearly two month tour of the U.K
The iconic warplane touched down at Mount Hope at noon on Sunday to a large crowd who welcomed her home.
“Vera” is only one of two air-worthy Lancasters in the world. It was undoubtedly a memorable tour that saw her welcomed warmly everywhere she and the crew went.
After 20 airshows and 50 fly-bys, the warplane was looking and sounding far more sprightly than it’s 70 years.
St. Catharines businessman Jeff Cairns paid $80,000 for a one-way ticket home from Britain on board the “Lanc” — a journey that was certainly not business class.
“That last leg in Goose Bay, it was -15 degrees celsius. It got pretty darn cold.”
Another man, Glen Manchester is British. He too paid top dollar to be a part of this tour and was taken aback by the reaction of his fellow countrymen as Vera flew from town to town.
“it was amazing, the reception that Vera got was amazing. It’s a very emotional aircraft attached so many memories.”
Vera wasn’t without her set-backs.
Engine trouble had her taking on a replacement British engine temporarily.
To rebuild the number 4 engine and send back the replacement will cost $180,000.
But such is the love for this aircraft, the British pounds are pouring in to supplement the Canadian cash that will make her whole again.
There is even a rumour that the Battle of Britain Museum has been challenged to bring their Lancaster “Thumper” to Canada for a tour that could happen next year.
