The Bomber Command Museum in Nanton is going to fire up the Lancaster Bomber on Saturday May 14.

It's all part of a fundraiser, the Dambusters Ride, taken on by a director of the museum, Ian McCaughtrie.

McCaughtrie was a member of the 617 Squadron Dambusters from 1984 to 1991.  He was also a member of the Royal Air Force, the Greater Manchester Police service and is currently serving as a Sgt. within Calgary Police.

On the night of May 16-17, 1943 the RAF's 617 Squadron carried out a bombing raid in the Ruhr valley in the heart of Germany's war machine.

McCaughtrie hopes to channel the brave men's courage in honour of their service in his ride.

The Dambusters Ride is a world wide cycling event with the main ride taking place in the U.K. but McCaughtrie will be taking a somewhat different route.

He's riding from the Bomber Command Museum to Chain Lakes and then back again for the 50 miles (80.5 km) needed.

McCaughtrie will have a couple of friends join him on the ride, Daz Coen and James Kendal as they raise funds for three different charities.

The three charities are: (for QR code links to donate see the photo below or click thru the links)

  • The Royal Air Force Benevolent Fund - provision of benevolence assistance to current and former members of the RAF and their families.
  • The Bomber Command Museum - houses one of only four running Lancaster Bombers in the world amongst other aircrafts. 130 Canadians manned 617 Sqn during WW II.
  • Legacy Place Society - provides confidential support to individuals and families of law enforcement, they offer support to local officers and emergency medical/fire services, 911, Veterans, and military personnel.

donation QR codes

The Lancaster Bomber will be brought out and fired up at 11:00 a.m. to send off the cyclists and then again at 3:00 p.m. once they return from their ride with all four Merlin engines roaring their enthusiasm upon return.

The public is encouraged to attend the free event but donations will be gladly accepted.