A striking new sculpture has been installed at Watchtree Nature Reserve in north Cumbria.
Created by first year Gen2 apprentices, the replica World War Two Wellington Bomber, built from recycled materials, was inspired by the site’s aviation history.
It sits on top of the Watchtree Wheelers adapted cycle storage containers, along the line of one of the reserve’s original runways.
On clear days, the sculpture reflects the sun and is framed by the backdrop of Skiddaw and the Caldbeck Fells, making it a standout feature.
The project, at the nature reserve near Wigton, was born out of a collaboration between Ryan Dobson, Watchtree manager, and Dale Fitt, machining and manufacturing trainer/assessor, Gen2.
For this year’s National Apprenticeship Challenge, Gen2 apprentices were tasked with creating a sculpture for a local community cause.
Dale approached Watchtree Nature Reserve, where discussions quickly evolved into an idea that would connect the site’s World War Two aviation heritage with its modern-day focus on sustainability, cycling, and community engagement.
The apprentices chose to replicate a Wellington Bomber, reflecting the aircraft that once operated from RAF Great Orton during World War Two.
The sculpture was mainly created using recycled bicycle parts including frames, wheels, cassettes, and chains, donated through the reserve’s Watchtree Wheelers project.
The piece was created as part of both the National Apprenticeship Challenge and an internal competition between Gen2 departments, where it earnfirst prize in the Sculpture competition and receiving widespread praise for its creativity and craftsmanship.
Gen2 mechanical trainer/assessor Trevor McTurk oversaw the project.
He said: “The project has been great for our students as it allows them to put their new skills to the test. The challenge has really engaged them and now they can see their own work on display in a really prominent location, which is great for their confidence as well as building their CVs.”
Ryan added: “The whole team have been brilliant. When I first met with the students I was impressed by their professionalism.
“They were clearly keen to produce something impactful. After some discussion, we decided on the aviation history theme as it ties in nicely with our current Watchtower Project.
“When I suggested using old bikes and parts, they were thrilled with the extra element of challenge – they got straight to work, and we are delighted with the result.”
