Sir George Dowty statue unveiled

A new statue honouring Sir George Dowty has been unveiled at International Bomber Command Centre in Lincoln. Among the most influential British engineers, Dowty designed the hydraulic landing gear which played a crucial role in the success of the Avro Lancaster Bomber, among other aircraft – central to the Allies’ victory during World War Two.

Dowty’s transition from aviation to mining engineering is frequently cited in industrial history as a masterclass in technology transfer. Before the introduction of the Dowty hydraulic pit prop, coal miners relied on wooden props that were prone to sudden failure under the immense pressure of the earth above.

The 8ft bronze sculpture, funded by the Sir George Dowty Memorial Committee, shows Dowty standing next to a Lancaster bomber wheel. At the unveiling event, tributes were paid by the Very Revd Dr Simon Jones, Dean of Lincoln, and Dowty’s son, also called George. Also in attendance were former Dowty employees.

For more information, visit www.internationalbcc.co.uk