HISTORIC aircraft have been delivered to an airfield in County Durham where they will be showcased as part of a new museum.

The first two planes set to be exhibited in the open air arrived at Fishburn Airfield this week much to the delight of flying and history enthusiasts.

The British short-haul airliner and the postwar jet fighter will make up two of a collection of seven aircraft to be displayed to the public at the yet to open Fishburn Historic Aviation Centre.

Sam Woodgate, manager of the airfield, near Sedgefield, said: "The planes have been in various units so it's a place to house and exhibit them. They are in need of a home and some care and attention."

With the help of volunteers, the local Aviation Restoration Group will reassemble the two aircrafts which date back more than 50 years.

The group, run by Michael Eastman, currently has no base but will work out of the museum.

It has other aircraft in storage including a de Havilland Vampire, another jet fighter.

Mr Woodgate said the group was gearing up for its "most exciting project" - the construction of a Westland Whirlwind fighter used during the Second World War but which has since disappeared.

Once built it will be the only one of its kind in the world.

"It will take several years (to build) and eventually will be in taxiing condition," added Mr Woodgate.

Again with the help of volunteers and using drawings the team has had to produce itself, the aeroplane will be made inside a hanger which is planned to go up soon.

"There isn't anything like this in the North East and it's a great opportunity for people to get involved," he said. "We've also got an exciting simulator opening in the coming weeks.

"People can try their hand at flying the twin-engine aircraft which is very realistic."

Fishburn Aviation Limited took over the management of the airfield a year ago this month and opened up a specialist club house and a cafe in May.

The aviation centre will be located in a field behind the existing airfield which is home to 40 aircrafts, three rows of hangers and a grass runway.

It is expected to open sometime this year.

For more information search for Fishburn Airfield on Facebook or visit www.fishburnairfield.com