AN AVIATION fan’s dream of brining a piece of Southend Airport’s golden age back to south Essex has come true after thousands of pounds were donated from “the kindest souls”.

Marc Willmott, a print finisher from Hadleigh, rescued the last surviving Carvair cockpit from a Suffolk industrial estate last month after crowdfunding £4,190.

Now, the relic that formed a part of the Douglas DC-4 air ferry that chartered from Southend to Calais in 1954, has returned to Mr Willmott’s hometown, leaving him feeling “elated”.

Echo: Possession - the Carvair cockpitPossession - the Carvair cockpit (Image: Marc Willmott)

Carvair was a Douglas DC-4-based air ferry with a capacity of about 22 passengers in a rear cabin, and five cars loaded in at the front.

He said: “It arrived on Sunday, August 27, and I couldn’t believe it was finally in my possession after seeing it lying in a terrible state in the industrial estate, in Suffolk for years.

“However, it wouldn’t have been possible without all the wonderful kind souls that donated to help me get the cockpit back to where she belongs in south Essex.

“I was in a state of complete shock with the amount raised, and I can’t thank everyone enough.”

Echo: Thrilled - Mark (L) with ex-British Air Ferries engineer Richard WalkerThrilled - Mark (L) with ex-British Air Ferries engineer Richard Walker (Image: Marc Willmott)

As things stand, no permanent location has been secured, resulting in it being under tarpaulin on an unidentified site in the town for continued weatherproofing and restoration work, which has already seen holes being filled in.

However, the 62-year-old has said if anyone wants to take a look, it is “strictly by appointment only” and contact needs to be made with Mr Willmott.

With several possibilities for a permanent site, he has approached the Vulcan Restoration Trust, who lovingly care for the XL426 at the airport, to see if it can be placed in their hangar.

Mr Willmott said: “I approached the Vulcan Restoration Trust prior to getting the cockpit so see if there’s a chance it could take up residency there but sadly, they don’t have the room.

“I’m keen to have the artefact as close to the airport as possible and with this, I’ve been eyeing the Laurence Industrial Estate, near to the end of runway five.

“Hopefully, we’ll sort something soon so many people can get their eyes set on it.”

A scene from the 1964 Bond movie Goldfinger involving a Carvair was also filmed at Southend Airport.

Echo: Heritage - a Carvair aircraft was even featured in a James Bond filmHeritage - a Carvair aircraft was even featured in a James Bond film (Image: Unknown)

Carvair was known for transporting famous names in the 20th century, including action film hardman Robert Mitchum.