A life-sized replica of the iconic ‘bouncing bomb’ used by the RAF’s legendary Dambusters has been handed over in a poignant ceremony at Derwent Dam.
The tribute, donated by Severn Trent and the family of a late historian, honours the squadron’s deep links to the Peak District — where crews once trained for one of the most daring missions of the Second World War.
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Modern members of 617 Squadron travelled to the historic site to receive the replica, which will now take pride of place at their headquarters at RAF Marham in Norfolk.
The bomb — originally designed by Derbyshire-born engineer Sir Barnes Wallis — played a crucial role in Operation Chastise in May 1943, when RAF crews launched a high-risk night raid on dams in Nazi Germany.
Flying at dangerously low levels, the Dambusters rehearsed their mission over Derwent Reservoir before heading into combat. Eight aircraft were lost and 53 men killed — but the attack succeeded in breaching two dams and became one of the most famous operations of the war.
The replica had been displayed at the now-closed Derwent Dam Museum, founded in the 1980s by local historian Vic Hallam. After years in storage, his family worked with Severn Trent and the RAF to ensure it found a fitting new home.
Speaking at the ceremony, a 617 Squadron representative said the bomb would act as a powerful reminder of the bravery and sacrifice of those involved in the raid.
The handover comes as Derwent Dam marks its 110th anniversary — a site that once played a key role in wartime training and continues to serve millions today by supplying water across the region.
