Renaming of locomotive to honour Polish war heroes

Sir Keith Park is changing its name to 303 Squadron in memory of Polish Battle of Britain pilots

A Kent-based steam locomotive is being temporarily renamed after a Polish squadron that defended Britain during World War Two.

Sir Keith Park, a Bulleid Pacific engine dating from 1947 and based in Tunbridge Wells, is changing its name to 303 Squadron for one year as a mark of respect to serviceman who fought in the Battle of Britain.

The ceremony, at Eridge Station in East Sussex on Sunday, is the first time a UK-based locomotive has been named after a World War Two Polish air force squadron, according to the company which owns and restores the engine.

Peter Spowage, from Southern Locomotives, said he was "delighted" and "proud" the event was happening.

The vice-consul from the Polish embassy is attending the ceremony at 13:00 BST as well as senior figures from the Polish military.

Sir Keith Park, after whom the engine is currently named, was Air Vice Marshall of 11 Group and was in charge of protecting south-east England and London during the Battle of Britain.

The Polish 303 Squadron, after whom the engine is to be renamed, flew under his command.

It was one of the most successful squadrons during the Battle of Britain.

The 303 Squadron plate will be installed in a ceremony at Eridge Station

Mr Spowage said: "We have been working hard to make this event happen for some time and we are going to be proud to dedicate this locomotive to the memory of those Polish heroes.

"It's important to remember the sacrifice made by those Polish airmen for us to live safely in this country."

On the 85th anniversary of the Battle of Britain in September 2025 the original plates will be returned and the locomotive will return to its original name.

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