Bovington Tank Museum aims to bring back Tiger's roar (From Dorset Echo)

Bovington Tank Museum aims to bring back Tiger's roar

9:00am Saturday 6th February 2010

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PEOPLE are being urged to support a Dorset-based campaign to help make the Tiger roar again.

The world’s only surviving example of a working Tiger 1 Tank is one of the most popular exhibits at Bovington Tank Museum.

But the mighty machine is staring down the barrel of what could be its biggest fight so far.

The museum needs £40,000 to enable vital re-engineering work to take place on Tiger 131.

The funding would enable further work to re-engineer authentic parts for the final drive and engine cooling system.

The indomitable German Second World War bruiser was the only one of its kind to be captured intact by the Allies.

It was captured in Tunisia during a fierce battle, in April 1943, by 48 Royal Tank Regiment.

After being found ‘mysteriously abandoned’ Tiger 131 was later inspected by Prime Minister Winston Churchill and even King George VI.

After being shipped back to London it was stripped down as part of an evaluation that enabled British and American tank crews to understand its strengths and weaknesses.

Following the war, in 1951, it was handed to the Tank Museum, where it became one of the museum’s biggest draws.

It was restored to working order in 2004 but now more important work needs to be carried out.

Tank Museum spokesman Nick Wyness said: “Tiger 131 is in need of urgent re-restoration work to ensure it can remain a running exhibit for generations to come.”

Visit www.tankmuseum.org/projects or donate via www.justgiving.com/TigerAppeal2010

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