Improvements to cafe named after Hollywood legend completed at Old Buckenham Airfield

Old Buckenham Airfield has announced a set of renovation works have been completed at the site — including a restaurant named after a former officer and Hollywood legend.

The airfield, a former Second World War USAAF base and home of the 453rd Bombardment Group, say a “comprehensive re-modelling” of the airfield’s main building has finished on time in just three weeks, which includes an all new control tower and improvements at Jimmy’s Cafe.

Three weeks was an extremely ambitious timescale for a project of this size and we are thrilled to have been able to accomplish a badly needed improvement to one of the most important buildings at Old Buckenham

The cafe, which has seen its capacity increase by 30 per cent following the work, was named after the former Operations Officer at the airfield during the Second World War and actor Jimmy Stewart.

It means it will be able to handle more customers, as well as offer them close-up views of a host of aircraft operating from Old Buckenham throughout the year.

Matt Wilkins, Airfield Manager: “Three weeks was an extremely ambitious timescale for a project of this size and we are thrilled to have been able to accomplish a badly needed improvement to one of the most important buildings at Old Buckenham.

“We are finally able to offer facilities worthy of the new Museum and revitalised airfield, complimenting the numerous developments since late 2013 under the new ownership.

“We’re now working on ensuring that the Airshow, on 30th and 31st July, continues to flourish.

“This latest success is only possible thanks to the support of a close-knit team of volunteers and friends without whom Old Buckenham could not have hoped to enjoy the success and developments of last few years.”

A spokesperson for the airfield added the cafe had a “unique vintage feel”, creating by American interior stylist Signature Hamilton, who donated time and services to create it.

New operator Tricia Clarey has brought a new menu to the cafe, which is currently open for business.

The entire project was overseen and executed by a team entirely composed of airfield volunteers and tenants.

The completed cafe has been dedicated to the memory of Gerald Barnard, described as a “much liked” and “generous supporter” of Old Buckenham for many years, who passed away in 2014 and made a “generous bequest” to the airfield.

For more information on Old Buckenham Airfield, visit www.oldbuck.com, call 01953 860806, or email airfield@oldbuck.com

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