VOLUNTEERS working to create a reference library of books on the RAF, aviation, and war history in Haverfordwest have been visited by the local AM and MP.
The Welsh Spitfire Museum on Bridge Street, Haverfordwest, welcomed Stephen Crabb MP and Paul Davies AM through its doors on Friday, March 16, to showcase the work of the museum and their new public library.
The library is currently being catalogued by a team of volunteers, with finishing touches being made to the room in the former Ocky White department store where it will be based.
More than 4,500 books have been donated by members of the public, on topics including the history of aviation from its origins to the present day, the history of the RAF (which is celebrating its centenary this year), the first and second world wars, and politics.
There are also uncounted numbers of documents and magazines relating to aviation and the military.
The AM and MP were given a tour of the museum’s exhibits by curator Ray Burgess, who explained the history of the Spitfire and told them about the efforts to catalogue the new library.
Stephen Crabb MP said: "Pembrokeshire has a proud military history and I was delighted to meet with Ray and some of his dedicated team at the Welsh Spitfire Museum.
"The Spitfire is iconic and to see the artefacts on show in the museum was a treat.
"I look forward to seeing the museum go from strength to strength, especially as 2018 is the 100th anniversary of the RAF."
Paul Davies AM said: “We’re very fortunate to have such a unique attraction on our doorstep and I’d encourage everyone to go and visit the museum.
"It was interesting to hear that a military reference library is now being developed and I look forward to visiting it when it opens.
"I wish the museum every success and I’m very grateful to the volunteers who have been so committed to protecting the artefacts and promoting our military history."
The Welsh Spitfire Museum hopes to one day restore a MK VIII Spitfire so that it can fly again.
Those interested in volunteering at the museum can visit 7 Bridge St, Haverfordwest SA61 2AL or call the museum on 01437 764841.
For more information visit the website welshspitfire.org
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