THE company taking on the job of preserving a cherished landmark as a museum in memory of the Few has finally taken over the historic building.

The Grade II* listed mansion house at RAF Bentley Priory, in Stanmore, home to Fighter Command during World War Two, now belongs to City & Country after contract procedures were completed this week.

The firm, which specialises in converting listed buildings, will take on the delicate job of turning the less significant rooms into eight luxury flats and converting its most historic areas into a museum.

Helen Moore, managing director of City & Country Group Residential, said the company is “delighted” to take on the project.

She said: “Bentley Priory is an extremely significant British landmark with vast historical importance and we plan to take a sympathetic and understanding approach to ensure its survival for future generations.”

The education centre will preserve the memory of fighter pilots who sacrificed their lives to fend off attacks from the German Luftwaffe during what is seen as one of the most perilous periods in modern British history.

Alongside the mansion house will be a series of houses and flats built by Barratt Developments.

Air Chief Marshal Sir Brian Burridge, chairman of the Bentley Priory Battle of Britain Trust, said: “For the trust, it has taken five long years to reach this point but we are now delighted to be working alongside City & Country to make our vision a reality.

“Bentley Priory is an iconic building in three respects: it is an architectural masterpiece, a symbol of the nation’s social history, and it was Dowding’s headquarters during the Battle of Britain.

“While victory at Trafalgar saved England, victory in the Battle of Britain saved the world. City & Country have an enviable track record in sensitive heritage restoration.”