2-847-566 - Historic England Archive/Heritage Images

A view looking north from the roof of Coventry Cathedral, showing a RAF Belvedere helicopter attempting to hoist the 80ft bronze spire for the new cathedral from a scaffolding tower on site, with the city of Coventry in the background including the bus station and The Coventry Theatre. 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.