23rd August 2026 - International Bomber Command Centre - Dave Cusdin

Seven riders set out in two groups to visit the International Bomber Command Centre (IBCC) just on the outskirts of Lincoln. Journeys to this neck of the woods invariably involve the A17, and this was no exception. Once we had reached the A52, the ride became much more enjoyable as we made our way on the back roads past Coningsby to Horncastle. We then took a very technical route through Bardney to Wragby; a series of very tight bends that demand the utmost respect and concentration to navigate safely. From Wragby, it was a short cross-county run to the IBCC. The IBCC has been created to serve as a point for recognition, remembrance, and reconciliation for Bomber Command. Lincoln was chosen for the site as it provided a central point for all 27 bases that earned Lincolnshire the title of ‘Bomber County’. Lincoln’s Cathedral provided a landmark for crews both leaving and returning from missions, and there is a splendid view of this remarkable building from the centre.

After refreshments, five of the riders decided to visit the On Freedom’s Wings sculpture of a Lancaster bomber located in a field at Disney Norton, not too far away from the IBCC.

The sculpture represents Lancaster R5689 ‘VN-N’ of 50 Sqn, based at RAF Swinderby. On the 19th of September 1942, returning from a sea mining mission over the Baltic Sea, both port engines failed as it turned onto the final approach to land. The aircraft crashed in Thurlby Wood, just 3 miles away, at 0130. Four of the seven crew were killed, with the remainder injured. The sculpture can be viewed from the A46, but to get up and personal requires a fair hike from a farmer’s field that is only open at specific times, so if you’re planning a visit, I would recommend that you check out the event times first.

An uneventful ride home followed. Thanks to Elke for providing the route and to Soji for leading the second group.

Until the next time.

Cheers, Dave C