Britain’s oldest aviation museum is appealing for £1 million-worth of funding to aid its desperate need for more space.

De Havilland Aircraft Museum at Salisbury Hall, London Colney, is home to historic aircraft artefacts designed by manufacturer de Havilland.

The museum, founded in the 1950s, needs more space to house their 20 plus aircraft and memorabilia, as some of them are out in the open.

Chairman of the de Havilland Aircraft Heritage Trust, Alan Brackley said: “It is so very important that we get them all under cover because some have wood and fabric in their construction so being exposed to the weather is not good for them.

“That is why our appeal is so very important in helping us preserve the de Havilland heritage.”

The £1 million would go towards building a new hangar to house the outdoor artefacts, trebling the amount of space.

The new hangar would replace the smaller one and also include a refreshment area, a new workshop and increased information about the historic items.

De Havilland designed and produced aircraft in Hertfordshire from 1910 to the 1970s, including the famous “wooden wonder” Mosquito of the Second World War.

There are three examples of the aircraft, the world’s first multi-roll combat aircraft, which the museum considers to be their ‘jewel in the crown’.

Alan added: “We believe that visitors will really appreciate our new hangar and we want to get it built as soon as possible, which is why our appeal is so very important.

“Our aircraft are of course the focal point of the museum but it is important that we provide good facilities for all visitors, families, enthusiasts, and school and youth groups.”

Planning permission for the facilities was granted earlier this year and comes after a new reception foyer and Aeroshop were created. Volunteers are sought for the museum and details can be found on the website www.dehavillandmuseum.co.uk