Rusting tank that helped to liberateEurope now fighting fit once more

A RUSTING tank that took part in decisive battles in the liberation of Europe has been restored by apprentices at a Wakefield workshop.

The Sherman tank was involved in fighting with the Sherwood Rangers Yeomanry, whose men suffered heavy casualties. It has taken pride of place outside the National Liberation Museum in Groesbeek, Holland, but in recent years has started to look its age.

The Sherman has been refurbished at TEi Ltd, based on Calder Vale Road, Wakefield.

Mick Heatlie, TEi’s training and development manager said: “We took it to pieces because it was falling apart from the inside.Then, after replating it, was all put back together in the workshop and it looks great.

“I was in the army for 25 years so I’ve seen a few tanks and this one looks fantastic now.”

Work was carried out with the help of 22 apprentices at the firm, who normally specialise in maintenance for the power generation and petrochemical industries.

The Wakefield firm’s involvement was the idea of contract engineer Bob Gregory, a member of the Sherwood Rangers Yeomanry, an historic squadron of the Territorial Army.

Mr Heatlie said: “The tank will look brilliant on display in Holland.”