The Story of RAF Woodvale (Object of the Month)

The Story of RAF Woodvale (Object of the Month)

An online talk by Military Historian and ex Formby resident Aldon Ferguson.

RAF Woodvale opened in 1941. It was designated to provide fighter cover to protect Merseyside but was too late for the blitz. It did, however, continue to house fighter squadrons for general protection against the Luftwaffe and was a Sector Control Station with responsibility for north west England.

At the end of the war it became a Royal Navy Air Station prior to a failed attempt by Southport to claim it as Southport Airport. Post war it housed a large number of support and training squadrons and achieved fame in being the last RAF base to operate Spitfires on routine RAF duty.

Still active, RAF Woodvale is currently home to three training units and a Royal Auxiliary Air Force unit.

RAF Woodvale opened in 1941. It was designated to provide fighter cover to protect Merseyside but was too late for the blitz. It did, however, continue to house fighter squadrons for general protection against the Luftwaffe and was a Sector Control Station with responsibility for north west England.

At the end of the war it became a Royal Navy Air Station prior to a failed attempt by Southport to claim it as Southport Airport. Post war it housed a large number of support and training squadrons and achieved fame in being the last RAF base to operate Spitfires on routine RAF duty.

Still active, RAF Woodvale is currently home to three training units and a Royal Auxiliary Air Force unit.


This online talk was first presented 14 July 2021 as part of The Atkinson’sObject of the Month series of free talks.


Our current exhibition, Courage & Devotion, remembers the lives of the Polish Airmen based at RAF Woodvale, the iconic Spitfire and some of the stories associated with the area during World War 2. Until 12 March 2022.

Posted on 21 July 2021 under At Home Activities, Exhibition, General news, Video

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