An unique vintage tank, the last of its kind in the world, will be undergoing restoration on the Isle of Wight and repurposed to enable it to carry disabled persons at military shows and events.
The FV3805 self-propelled gun tank is undergoing restoration at The Wight Military & Heritage Museum (formally C.H.A.R.M) in Northwood using volunteers and support from around the world. Once restored the 40 ton vehicle will be able to carry wheelchair users and disabled persons at events such as Tankfest in Dorset and the War and Peace show.
A Kickstarter project was set up and raised £8,500 on the first day, with funding coming from enthusiasts and fans from around the world and with help from popular YouTube celebrities like The Mighty Jingles and Rita Gamer; a huge amount of interest has been gathered.
Hundreds of volunteers ranging from the United States Marine Corps currently stationed in the UK, to rail yard workers, welders and doctors, as well as a large number of players from the MMO game World of Tanks have been drawn to the project due to their interest in the vehicle and asked to help.
The total cost for the project will be £75,000 to completely restore the tank to running condition and then ferry her over to the mainland for a tour of duty. Due to Kickstarter rules, the full amount has to be raised in 60 days or none of the funding will be allocated so any form of sponsorship to help the disabled gain access to these machines is being greatly sought after.
For more information visit the project’s Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/FV3805 or by calling Ed on 07497149139. You can also email [email protected].
You can donate via Kickstarter at https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/1013126295/fv3805-restoration-project.
