By Isle of Wight Observer
A founder member and director of the IW Aviation Museum has received a Lifetime Achievement Award for her work.
Helen Blake-Edwards has been recognised by Aviation Heritage UK for her contribution to the museum, which is based at Sandown Airport.
The award ceremony took place at a meeting of the Aviation Heritage UK, in Poynton, Cheshire, which, by coincidence, is where Helen grew up until she was eight, and was presented by Allan Winn, chairman of Aviation Heritage UK. It celebrates Helen’s commitment to preserving and sharing aviation heritage, and her contribution to establishing and supporting the museum.
Helen said: “This is a huge honour, and I’m proud to accept the award, on behalf of all the hours volunteers have put in, in developing the museum.
“We’ve all worked so hard to build an Island aviation museum. We’re celebrating 10 years in 2027, which is a great achievement.”
The museum showcases the history of IW aviation, and offers visitors an opportunity to discover the people, aircraft, and stories that have shaped flight.