The Sexton Project
The aim of this exciting project is to conserve a 25-pounder Sexton self-propelled gun and restore it to fully working condition (driving and firing blank rounds). Returned to an authentic 1940's specification, it will be displayed to the public at events across the UK, enabling people to see this amazing piece of Second World War history in action. The Garrison Artillery Volunteers, Royal Artillery Museum and Royal Artillery Historical Trust are working together to make this a reality - what we need now is your support!
Click on the link to donate, get involved as a volunteer, or just help us spread the word about our project.
Who are we?
The Garrison Artillery Volunteers was formed over 30 years ago to promote the understanding of Field Artillery and Anti-Aircraft Artillery from the 20th century. It is a group of diverse but like-minded people, including serving and retired military personnel and civilian professionals, with sections throughout the UK, Czech, Belgium & Malta. The Royal Artillery Historical Trust owns the Royal Artillery’s internationally-important museum collection, which ranges from medieval cannon to the latest equipment used by the British Army, and aims to preserve and promote Royal Artillery heritage. The Royal Artillery Museum manages the collection on behalf of the Trust. Following the closure of the Firepower museum, Woolwich, in 2016, plans are now being developed for a new museum close to the modern home of the Royal Artillery on Salisbury Plain.
What are we doing?
The restoration work breaks down into three areas: the engine, the chassis and the ordnance (the gun). The Sexton has already been delivered to our workshop at Larkhill in Wiltshire, and our team has started cleaning it up ready for work to begin. First, the huge aero engine will be removed and shipped to a specialist for assessment. This will cost £2,000, which has already been secured. This assessment will establish what work is needed to bring it back to running condition – and how much it will cost. The Garrison Artillery Volunteers will then embark on stripping the chassis and hull. Any missing parts will need to be sourced and replaced, and the Sexton will be fully repainted in authentic Second World War livery. Lastly, the ordnance will be restored - the Garrison Artillery Volunteers are specialists in 25 pounders, having previously returned many guns to working condition.
Why are we doing this?
We want to preserve the Sexton for future generations and display it for the enjoyment and education of the public. By doing this, we can help to tell the stories of those who have served in the Regiment, and to promote the Royal Artillery’s incredible museum collection.
Historic loan agreement is signed
Passion of the volunteers
How can you help?
We value people like yourself and we value the preservation of our military history. Donate by clicking on the link, and contribute to funding the conservation and restoration of this important self-propelled gun. Volunteer by joining the Garrison Artillery Volunteers, and get hands on with the Sexton. We need people like you – people who value the preservation of our military history. We have some 120 members who get involved at all levels. No experience is required, just a passion for what we do.
Would you like to get involved?
Join The Garrison Artillery Volunteers HERE