One of Britain's largest Cold War tanks has gone on display in North Yorkshire, giving visitors the chance to see a military giant with a remarkable personal history.
The Chieftain Mk.10 05EB53, now featured at Eden Camp, holds special meaning for former British Army gunner Rob Dove, who served aboard the tank during the 1980s and later purchased it.
Mr Dove said: "Seeing 05EB53 at Eden Camp is incredibly special because it’s not just a tank to me – it’s part of my own story.
A Cold War-era Chieftain Mk.10 tank has gone on display at Eden Camp in North Yorkshire. The tank, known as 05EB53, holds a unique personal connection for former British Army gunner Rob Dove, pictured, who served aboard it during the 1980s before later buying and preserving the historic vehicle himself
(Image: Supplied)
"We spent years training and serving together during the Cold War, so finding it again decades later and restoring it has been an unforgettable journey.
"I’m so excited for people to have the chance to see it up close and personal, with the chance to learn about the vehicle itself and the people who served in it."
Mr Dove joined the Army at 17, trained as a tank gunner, and was posted to the 15th/19th The King’s Royal Hussars.
He spent two years in West Germany aboard the Chieftain before deploying to Cyprus in 1989.
In 2023, he acquired the tank and began restoring it to its original running condition.
The vehicle, which entered Army service in 1986, now bears the markings it wore during Mr Dove’s time in Detmold.
Weighing around 56 tonnes and equipped with a 120mm L11A5 rifled main gun, the Chieftain Mk.10 was one of the most heavily armed and well-protected tanks of its era.
It also has strong links to the North of England, featuring components made at the Royal Ordnance Factory in Leeds and final assembly completed by Vickers Defence Systems in Newcastle upon Tyne.
The tank’s arrival at Eden Camp adds a personal touch to the museum’s military collection.
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The museum is taking part in the Great British Summer Savings VAT reduction scheme.
Advance purchase tickets are available from £14.75 for adults and concessions, £13 for children, and family tickets from £26.25.
Children can also enjoy a meal for £6 during the summer holidays.
To find out more, visit edencamp.co.uk