2-847-564 - Historic England Archive/Heritage Images

RAF aircrew on the roof of Coventry Cathedral manoeuvring the 80ft bronze spire on to a 1 yard square plate. The spire of the old cathedral can be seen in the background. The photograph was taken during 'Operation Rich Man' a joint project involving Royal Air Force staff and Laing staff. This involved a RAF Belvedere helicopter hoisting in to place the 80ft bronze spire on to the new cathedral. The part of the operation to lower the 1/2 ton cross that sits on top of the spire had to be postponed due to windy conditions.