A Churchill Mark III tank, produced in the Vauxhall factory in Luton, was taken on a visit to its birthplace by The Tank Museum to mark the 80th anniversary of VE Day.
The 38-ton Mark III Churchill tank, owned by The Churchill Trust, was transported from The Tank Museum to Luton for the weekend of 10-11 May as part of the VE Day celebrations.
Displayed in St George’s Square, at the heart of Luton’s town centre, expert staff from The Tank Museum were on hand to talk to visitors about this iconic WWII tank and the history of its production.
In May 1940, Vauxhall Motors stopped making cars and dedicated its production line to the Churchill tank, with over 5,500 Churchill tanks built in total.
Vehicle Technician, Aaron Cruse, said: “It was a wonderful event to be part of, and felt so special to bring the Churchill home again after all this time. Speaking to the locals it seems the whole town has a connection with the Vauxhall factory.
“We talked to people that remembered seeing the tanks drive out the factory when they were young, and many people we spoke to recalled Dads and Grandads that tested, built, and drove Churchill tanks during the war. The factory has sadly now closed, leaving a big hole in the community.
“Everyone who was involved with the event and visited over the weekend appreciated the vehicle being there.
“An important reminder of the contribution to the war effort made by British factories, and a poignant way to mark the 80th anniversary of VE Day.”
The Churchill Mark III has now returned to its home at The Tank Museum.
