Gatwick Aviation Museum News
Over the past few years I’ve been a regular visitor to the Gatwick Aviation Museum, it’s easily my favourite place to teach photography. It would seem I’m not alone for my love of this unique location, as I know many photographers have made the effort to visit this amazing place.
Anyone who visits the museum will have almost certainly have met Peter Vallance, the owner and driving force behind Gatwick Aviation and it’s with immense sadness that I have to let you know that Peter passed away earlier this year.
Those who met Peter, will remember him as one of life’s bigger characters. He was totally passionate about his aircraft but he was equally enthusiastic to share that passion with everyone else, including us photographers who have flocked to his museum over the past few years.
Sadly the museum will be closed to the public for the time being but the trustees plan to reopen to the museum to public once again later this year. My one to one training sessions at Gatwick Aviation will continue as usual.
Peter Vallance had become a good friend and will be sorely missed by all who’s lives he touched.
Peter Vallance
R.I.P. Peter.
The last time I saw Peter I mentioned a large coffee table WWII bomber book I had obtained at a Farnborough in the early 90’s that had been signed by the aircrews. I told him next time I was down I’d try to get to over to the storage unit, dig it and, in the hope it would be of interest, he was welcome to have it. For a man I barely knew I had an great deal of affection for his forthright personality and kindness. I never managed to get the book out and never saw him again since that day, it’s the little things you regret not doing. RIP Peter.
RIP Peter
Sad news
I had the honour of meeting Peter last year and his passion and knowledge served as an inspiration during my visit to the museum. This is sad news indeed.
Sad news. I used to live nearby in the Rising Sun pub just up the road. Many a day as a youngster jumping through the fence to see some old heroes of the sky 🙂
Thanks to your Youtube video I visited the museum last Saturday and admired the great collection he assembled. I hope the trust can maintain Peter Vallance’s legacy!