PETITIONERS are calling for a Second World War airbase to be restored and brought back into community use.

More than 1,500 people have signed the document set up to prevent RAF Rivenhall falling into further disrepair.

The abandoned site has been empty for nearly 40 years having been used by both the British and American air forces between 1944 and 1946.

William Smith created the petition after "falling in love" with the airbase when he first visited back in 2018.

He said: "It all started when I was reading a book about the airbase by Bruce Stratt.

"I've always been interested in history every since school and every time I go to the airbase, I fin

"I've been back quite a few times since and every time I visit, I seem to find it more and more interesting.

"But I also notice other sections which are decaying and getting worse.

"The place is an absolute gold mine of local history which needs to be preserved."

The airbase is thought to have one of the last remaining command bunkers in good condition in the country.

William also say there are three Nissen huts standing which have been partly overwhelmed with vegetation.

He is looking to get permission to clear the site of overgrowing weeds and debris with the help of an army of volunteers.

Plans would then be drawn up to find a new use for the airbase, which may include a museum, place to eat and new home for local scouts groups and RAF air cadets.

Since launching the petition, William says he has been inundated with messages from people interested in helping and he remains hopeful he will get the all clear to start work on the site.

He added: "You can see people want to get involved and make it something to be proud of again.

"I've had re-enactment groups getting in touch saying they would be interested in using the site so it's clear it would be popular."

William says he is in contact with land owners about his plans and hopes the petition will demonstrate the strength of support.

He says the site will not be disrupted by Gent Fairhead and Co's plans to build an incinerator at Rivenhall Airfield.

To sign the petition, visit change.org and search RAF Rivenhall.

To find out more information, visit the RAF Rivenhall Facebook page.