VOLUNTEERS from the RAF Harrowbeer Interest Group (HIG) have been hard at work over the last few months, restoring one of the former world war two airfield's dispersal bays in readiness for the 70th Anniversary celebration weekend next month.

Following consultations with Maristow Estates, Dartmoor National Park, West Devon Borough Council and the commoners, the dispersal bay nearest to Knightstone Tea Rooms in Yelverton, has had trees removed and soil and rubble cleared away.

The bricked-up entrances to the internal air-raid shelter have also been opened up, to allow visitors to the anniversary event to see inside for the first time in more than 50 years.

Security gates will be installed so that the bay can be opened for visitors to future airfield events.

HIG chairman Brian Salt said: 'People kept asking us whether any of the bays would ever be opened up and it seemed appropriate that this should be done for the 70th anniversary.

'Everyone has been very supportive of the idea and we have received a grant from West Devon Borough Council and a private donation to pay for the security gates for which we are very grateful.'

The anniversary weekend takes place on August 13 and 14.

The group is still keen to hear from any airfield staff, or from families who lived in the airfield's huts in the 1960s and 70s.

Anyone with information on the airfield can either contact HIG member Stephen Fryer on 01822 855336 or visit http://www.rafharrowbeer.co.uk">www.rafharrowbeer.co.uk

Donations to the RAF Harrowbeer 70th Anniversary Committee's Spitfire Fund can now be made at Game and Computer in Market Street, Tavistock.

All donations to the fund will be gratefully received, but anyone who gives a £10 donation will receive a specially created, limited edition badge in the shape of a Spitfire, and a £25 donation will receive a gold-plated version of the badge.