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Operation Rich Man JLP01_08_062433
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Operation Rich Man JLP01_08_062433
COVENTRY CATHEDRAL, PRIORY STREET, COVENTRY. A RAF officer with a hand held signal lamp standing on the roof of Coventry Cathedral during the lowering of the 80ft bronze spire.
The photograph was taken during Operation Rich Man a joint project involving Royal Air Force staff and Laing staff. This involved a RAF Belvedere helicopter hoisting in to place the 80ft bronze spire on to the new cathedral. The part of the operation to lower the 1/2 ton cross that sits on top of the spire had to be postponed due to windy conditions
Historic England is the public body that champions and protects England's historic places
Media ID 23993822
© Historic England Archive. John Laing Photographic Collection
1960s Building Site Cathedral Construction People
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This print captures a significant moment in the construction of Coventry Cathedral during Operation Rich Man. Standing proudly on the roof of the cathedral, an RAF officer holds a hand-held signal lamp, overseeing the lowering of the magnificent 80ft bronze spire. Operation Rich Man was a collaborative effort between Royal Air Force staff and Laing staff, aiming to hoist this colossal structure into place using an RAF Belvedere helicopter. However, due to unfavorable windy conditions, the operation had to be temporarily halted before lowering the 1/2 ton cross that crowns the spire. Taken in the 1960s at Coventry Cathedral's building site on Priory Street, this photograph showcases both human ingenuity and architectural marvel. The determination and coordination required for such an ambitious project are evident as workers navigate through challenging circumstances. The image not only highlights the grandeur of Coventry Cathedral but also pays tribute to those who contributed their skills and expertise to its creation. It serves as a testament to human resilience and collaboration in overcoming obstacles during large-scale construction projects. Preserved by A© Historic England Archive, this historical snapshot provides us with a glimpse into one chapter of Coventry's rich architectural heritage while reminding us of our ability to achieve greatness when we work together towards a common goal.
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