A meticulously restored Vampire T11 aircraft has been successfully installed in the new Vanguard Self Storage site on the Lower Bristol Road in Bath.
The aircraft being lifted into place | Photo © Vanguard Self Storage
The aircraft, a symbol of British aviation excellence, takes centre stage in the building’s entrance.
The WZ450 Vampire was originally delivered to the RAF in 1952 and spent most of its service life based at Pembrey, as an advanced training aircraft before being acquired by Vanguard in 2023.
It was restored and transported to the new Bath facility in eight carefully managed sections.
Once inside, a dedicated team reassembled the aircraft over five days, followed by three days of intricate work to suspend it securely in its striking display position.
This latest addition continues Vanguard’s unique way of creating talking points by incorporating historic and cultural artefacts into and onto its facilities.
Reassembly the aircraft in the building | Photo © Vanguard Self Storage
Commuters travelling on the A40 past Vanguard’s West London branch have seen an eclectic array of rooftop exhibits, including a helicopter, a Doctor Who TARDIS, a Mark IV tank, and a Supermarine Spitfire.
Will McCullagh, Managing Director for privately owned and family-run Vanguard Self Storage, said: “Restoring and displaying these iconic pieces of history is a personal passion for us.
“Our business roots were in industrial moving and engineering services which led us to acquire numerous items over sixty years.
“We are delighted to share some of these treasures with local communities and welcome visitors to our stores.
“The iconic Vampire on display at Bath follows on from the installation of the English Electric Lightning interceptor aircraft at our Bristol location and the Hawker Hunter displayed at Staples Corner, London.”
Once open in early 2025, the new Vanguard facility in Bath will offer 45,000 square feet of lettable storage space for business and private customers, together with a business lounge. Storage units will be individually alarmed, and the site will be monitored 24/7 by CCTV.
