1:72 scale diecast model airplane from the Corgi Aviation Archive Collector Series AA38404. Bristol Blenheim Mk I RAF No.211 Sqn, "The Bish", Gordon Finlayson, Paramythia, Greece, 1940. Limited Edition.

Length 7 inches
Wingspan 9 inches

Features:
Diecast metal construction with some plastic components.
Realistic panel lines, antennas, access panels and surface details.
Pad printed markings and placards that won't fade or peel like decals.
Optional extended/retracted landing gear with rotating wheels.
Poseable presention stand to display the aircraft "in flight".
Many limited editions with numbered certificate of authenticity.
Detailed pilot and crew member figures.
Authentic detachable ordnance loads complete with placards.
Selected interchangeable features such as airbrakes, opened canopies and access panels.
Selected moving parts such as gun turrets and control surfaces.

211 Sqn undertook its first operations in June 1940 against Italian targets in Libya and continued until November 1940 when the squadron was sent to assist the Greeks following the Italian invasion of that country. The CO was Sqn Ldr J. Gordon-Finlayson (“The Bish”) flying Blenheim L8511. This aircraft was badly damaged in action and made a forced landing. The crew were reported missing, but were in fact marooned on an island. Days later after an eventful journey they returned. For this action “The Bish” was awarded the DFC. Very soon he was back in the air in L6670, a replacement aircraft transferred from 84 Sqn. Shortly afterwards, on 2nd December, he flew L6670 to attack Valona harbour and returned safely despite damage to the aircraft caused by defending enemy fighters. He continued to fly throughout the winter in what were extremely difficult weather conditions, over mountainous terrain. In March 1941 “The Bish” was awarded the DSO and promoted to Wing Commander.

Corgi’s Bristol Blenheim series highlights its many roles as a light bomber, a night-fighter and a ground attack aircraft. The most notable difference between the Blenheim’s variants was the Mk IV’s longer asymmetric nose, with the area in front of the pilot “scooped out,” which provided maximum visibility. Night fighter releases of this model feature a special gun pack under the fuselage armed with four machine guns. The 360 degree rotating dorsal mounted gunner’s station includes a nicely detailed pivoting Lewis machine gun. The robust metal landing gear is quick and easy to install for ground display.