Cash injection needed for a Blenheim bombing run

Blenheim aviation enthusiasts are chasing overseas money to bring a World War II Blenheim bomber from the United States to their town.

The Blenheim for Blenheim group has made a downpayment on the bomber, which is unlikely to leave its hangar in Missouri until the purchase price is paid in full.

Group spokesman Graham Orphan said the group was now talking to an overseas company which had historical connections with the aircraft but the company had yet to confirm it would put up the money.

There was a 50-50 chance of getting the funds, he said. "It is still on track. It is still heading in the right direction but it is just taking longer than expected."

The group needs about $70,000 to bring the Blenheim bomber to New Zealand - and up to $800,000 more to complete the restoration.

He said the deposit the group had paid meant the aircraft, which was built in Canada, could not be sold to anyone else.

Once restored it was likely it would be the only Blenheim still flying.

Mr Orphan said Blenheim aerospace engineering company Safe Air and the Nelson Marlborough Institute of Technology had pledged time for the project, which had also been supported by movie director Peter Jackson.

Many New Zealanders served as airmen in Blenheim bombers during World War II.

- NZPA