A NEW generation of skilled young people is needed to put fresh blood into an expanding Essex-based industry – the restoration and maintenance of vintage aircraft.

The historic Stow Maries aerodrome, near South Woodham Ferrers, has become a national hub for the activity.

Russell Savory, operations manager at the site, is in the process of setting up an apprenticeship system, to help keep the skills alive.

He said: “There is a large and growing interest in owning and flying vintage aircraft, both originals and replicas.

"The skills required for keeping these aircraft in the air have something in common with modern aircraft maintenance skills, but are also quite specific.

“We have a strong group of experts here, including fabricators in wood, and riggers. But the youngest is in his sixties.

"They are keen to pass on their skills to a new generation.

“If they don’t, a wonderful tradition of craftsmanship will die out quite quickly.

“We don’t want Stow Maries to become a graveyard of old, beautiful, but permanently grounded planes.”

The Stow Maries board is already working with two training colleges, Colchester Institute and the Centre for Engineering and Manufacturing Excellence, at Rainham, with the aim of setting up an apprenticeship system.

The scheme also has the support of the Royal Aeronautical Society.

During a recent visit to Stow Maries, the society’s president, Martin Broadhurst, said: “I am looking forward to finding ways for us to work with Sto w Maries to inspire young people.”

Mr Savory ran his own engineering company for more than 40 years. RS Tuning maintained and tuned racing cars and bikes.

He said: “I’ve worked onawide range of machines, but vintage aircraft have a particular appeal, and you could base a great career on working with them.”