Wessex helicopter goes from Falklands hero to paintball prop

A helicopter which rescued crews from the ill-fated RFA Sir Galahad during the Falklands War has been brought to a Shropshire paintball arena – where it will act as a cafe.

The Wessex Helicopter XT468 was originally bought to be used as part of paintball activities in the main arena at Rednal Paintball, near Oswestry.

But when it was discovered that the helicopter had seen active service in the Falklands War rescuing crew members from both the Sir Galahad and the Atlantic Conveyor it was decided it needed a different role. The helicopter was brought into the county by road and lifted into place yesterday.

Carl Davies, arena manager, said: "We have decided to put it on display, as we are based on a disused World War Two airfield, with information boards about its history. And it will also be used for children's laser party packages – as the venue in which they have their lunch."