Reid & Sigrist RS.4 Bobsleigh G-AGOS, VZ728 NAHR – National Benchmark
Since its move into Hangar 1 in June 2023, one aircraft constantly attracting visitor attentions is the unique Reid & Sigrist Desford ‘Bobsleigh’ aircraft, G-AGOS VZ728. This is not only due to its rather unusual appearance but also the surprise of many visitors, to read that it was used for prone pilot trials, with a pilot lying in the nose. Also, in learning that VZ728 was actually the last aircraft to be flown in to Winthorpe to join the museum. By Jan McGeachie
The delivery flight on 19th August 2022, was undertaken by test and display pilot, Dan Griffith who flew the unique aircraft, nicknamed the ‘Desford Bomber’ onto one of Winthorpe’s former wartime runways. In so doing, it helped to preserve for public display a valuable part of Leicestershire’s aviation history. VZ728 was initially moved into a temporary location in Hangar 2, before later moving it into Hangar 1 where it remains.
Taking its name from the British company site that during World War II had been an RAF training centre, the prototype Desford was designed and built in 1945 as a twin engine three seat light trainer.
The first aircraft, the RS.1, was called the Snargasher. Similar in size, the RS.3 was intended for a pilot and trainee and featured a low-set wing, the RS.3 made its first flight on 9th July 1945, and was powered by two 130 hp de Havilland Gipsy Major Series I engines. Although designed as a trainer the type never entered service and was rebuilt as the experimental RS.4 Bobsleigh and flown in June 1951. The nose of the RS.4 was lengthened, allowing a pilot to operate in a prone (lying) position and evaluate ways of trying to minimise G force effects for fighter pilots.
G-AGOS appeared as VZ728 at the 1946 Farnborough Airshow flown amid others, by the Polish test pilot, Janusz Żurakowski. VZ728 was then taken on for instrument and camera testing at the Royal Aircraft Establishment (RAE) at Farnborough, where the wrap around transparent cone nose section was used for improved all round views.
The RS.4 had a length of 25 feet 6 inches; wingspan of 34 feet; G-AGOS could reach a maximum speed of 181 mph and climb to a height of 24,000 ft. The aircraft featured and all wooden construction and was powered by two de Havilland Gipsy Major engines.
Flying under its civilian registration, G-AGOS had a diverse history. It was seen flying around in the early 1960s, by one observant ROC member from his monitoring post at Crick. This observation noted it was carrying out aerial surveys in connection with the new M1 motorway, which at the time was under construction. The aircraft was later used as an air photo aircraft by Film Aviation Services, before being withdrawn from use, and joining the Strathallen Aviation Museum.
Under the ownership of Leicestershire County Council (LCC), the Desford spent many years in store at the Snibston Discovery Park. At one time the Desford was due to come to Winthorpe to be restored by museum staff and volunteers, but that original move came to nought. Restoration to flying standard was eventually carried out by Windmill Aviation at Spanhoe, Northants.
The eventual delivery flight of the Desford aircraft into the former Winthorpe airfield, was the culmination of months of organisation. This was completed in association with LCC, who transferred ownership of the unique aircraft to the museum prior to the flight; and also with Windmill Aviation. The delivery flight was also made possible thanks to the generous support and co-operation of the Newark and Nottinghamshire Agricultural Society; the Newark Motor Auction company; plus, all of their respective members of staff at both organisations.
After defueling and the removal of some items, the Desford was moved into a temporary undercover display location in Hangar 2. Now on display in Hangar 1 the Desford’s extraordinary aura can be appreciated by volunteers and visitors alike.
Photo credit Jan McGeachie