UK and Malta based CCTV specialist Dedicated Micros came to the 11th hour rescue of the ‘Merlins Over Malta’ project by sponsoring the crucial support aeroplane for the epic journey of a Spitfire and Hurricane from the UK to the Mediterranean island they helped so valiantly to defend over 60 years ago.
Said Chairman of Dedicated Micros, Nigel Petrie: “We are delighted to have been able to step into the breach when the original support aircraft fell through and cover the costs of Rouche Bentley’s Cessna T303. This ambitious project highlights the valuable role played by the Merlin-engined RAF Spitfires and Hurricanes throughout World War Two and in particular their sterling work during the siege of Malta.
“The sponsorship of ‘Merlins Over Malta’ is especially apt for us given the strong business links Dedicated Micros has developed with the island. This is based on a long-term programme of investment in the Maltese economy, specifically the location of our primary global production plant at the San Gwann Industrial Estate, which now employs nearly 170 people.”
The Spitfire and Hurricane which had been lovingly restored by the ‘Merlins Over Malta’ project team left Duxford, England, on the September 14 accompanied by the Dedicated Micros sponsored Cessna T303, arriving over the Grand Harbour in Valletta on September 22. They were then the star attraction at the Malta International Airshow, September 24-25, before conducting a flypast of a wreath laying ceremony at Floriana. The final engagement for the historic aircraft was the dedication of the Air Battle of Malta Hangar on September 28.
Commented ‘Merlins Over Malta’ Project leader Linda Denney: “We are extremely grateful to Dedicated Micros and Nigel Petrie for coming on board at such short notice. The role played by the support aircraft was of huge importance during our arduous journey through Europe, carrying vital spares and, crucially, a third pilot to give the other pilots a break from flying if required.”
About ‘Merlins Over Malta’
Between June 1940 and December 1942 Malta became one of the most bombed places on Earth. The battle for this tiny island proved to be one of the most decisive turning points of World War II. ‘Merlins Over Malta’ flew a Spitfire and Hurricane plus Cessna T303 ‘Crusader’ support aircraft back to the scene of the epic defence of the islands of Malta GC. The Spitfire and Hurricane aircraft that the project used belong to the Historic Aircraft Collection and are based at the Imperial War Museum at Duxford.
