A NEW boss has been selected to oversee the running of the Royal Air Force Museum in Grahame Park.

Trustees at the museum, in Grahame Park Way, have announced Air Vice-Marshal Peter Dye OBE will take over as the director general full-time from June 9.

Mr Dye is currently the director of collections and deputy director general. He has been acting director general since February 1, following Dr Michael Fopp's decision to stand down from the role after 22 years at the museum.

Before joining the museum, Mr Dye served in the RAF for more than 35 years. He has a degree in aeronautical engineering from Imperial College and has more than 20 years experience of frontline operations, including the maintenance and support of numerous aircraft types ranging from the Victor and Vulcan to the Jaguar and Tornado.

He was awarded the OBE for his achievements in support of the Jaguar Force during the Gulf War.

Mr Dye has a long-standing family association with the RAF, after his grandfather and father both served in the force during the First and Second World Wars respectively.

He has also published works on aviation history and is studying for a part-time PhD, at Birmingham University, on the Royal Flying Corps.

He said: “Since joining the Museum I have been hugely impressed by the enthusiasm and dedication of its staff and their many impressive achievements in the face of considerable challenges.

“I am delighted to be able to lead the museum as it builds on these successes and to have the opportunity to work with its many friends and supporters in creating an exciting and innovative future.”