Wings & Wheels Celebrates 25 Years at Historic Henstridge Airfield
The 2025 Wings & Wheels event was held on Saturday, 23rd August 2025, at the historic Henstridge Airfield—a site that once operated as HMS Dipper during the Second World War. This year marked the 25th anniversary of the much-loved celebration of aviation and motoring heritage.
A Wartime Legacy
Planning for HMS Dipper began in 1941, when the airfield was designed to serve as a training and satellite station for the nearby HMS Heron (RNAS Yeovilton). Officially commissioned in April 1943, Henstridge featured five runways, purpose-built to simulate the deck layout and operations of an aircraft carrier.
Throughout the war, various Royal Navy squadrons used HMS Dipper for training and operational exercises. In the post-war years, the airfield continued to play a role in naval aviation—training deck service officers and conducting night deck-landing practice—until formal naval flying ceased in June 1957.
Since then, Henstridge has evolved into a thriving civil aviation hub, hosting numerous community and flying events, including the PFA Wessex Strut Fly-In and the annual Wings & Wheels Fly-In, which raises funds for the Dorset & Somerset Air Ambulance based at the airfield.
A Day of Sunshine and Spectacle
Blessed with fine summer weather, the 2025 event attracted over 60 aircraft, ranging from vintage general aviation classics to modern types. The relaxed, garden party atmosphere proved popular with both enthusiasts and families.
Crowds enjoyed a wide variety of aircraft displays and vintage and classic vehicles. A highlight of the day was when the aircraft park opened for an hour, allowing visitors to walk among the aircraft, meet the pilots, and learn more about their flying machines. At just £10 per adult, the event offered exceptional value and a wonderful day out for all ages.
Fly Navy Heritage Trust in the Spotlight
Adding to the nostalgia, the RNAS Yeovilton-based Fly Navy Heritage Trust brought their Harvard and Bulldog to the show. Later in the afternoon, the majestic Fairey Swordfish I arrived, performing a landing and taxi demonstration before taking off once more. The event concluded with a unique formation flypast featuring the Swordfish, Harvard, and Bulldog—a fitting finale that paid tribute to Henstridge’s proud naval aviation heritage.
Article by Gary Morris
© South West Aviation Photographers 2025