As part of the preparation for our 70th anniversary we have uncovered some amazing stories about the history of the University and its people.

We had the privilege of spending some time with Ralph Hooper, co-creator of the revolutionary Hawker Harrier 'jump jet', was one of the very first students at the College of Aeronautics in 1946. In this short film he shares his memories of the Second World War, his experience of Cranfield and of working on the Harrier - as well as some very wise words for future engineers.

Special thanks to Ralph for giving up his time to make this film with us.

Cyril Cleverdon was the first librarian at the College of Aeronautics in 1946 and went on to have a hugely distinguished career. His son, Charles, who was born on the Cranfield campus, tells us what life was like growing up here.

Professor John Fielding first joined Cranfield in 1968 as a student on the Aircraft Vehicle Design course. After working in industry he rejoined Cranfield and is now Emeritus Professor of Aircraft Design. Here he tells us about life on campus over the last four decades.

Derek worked as Chief Aircraft Engineer at Cranfield Aerospace and was involved in a number of high profile, innovative projects, including the manufacture of the A1 aerobatic aircraft. Here he tells us what life was like working on so many different aeroplanes.

Emeritus Professor Riti Singh worked at Cranfield for 35 years and was Head of the Departments of Power & Propulsion and Aircraft Engineering, and former Deputy Head of the School of Engineering. He was instrumental in developing many key industry partnerships, including with NASA and Rolls Royce, and was Director of the Rolls Royce University Technology Centre in Performance Engineering. He received many accolades during his career, including ASME’s International Gas Turbine Institute’s Annual International Aircraft Engine Technology Award for 2010, presented to one individual each year for sustained, innovative personal contribution to the field. Professor Singh is a past chairman of the Aerospace Division of the UK’s Institution of Mechanical Engineers, and continues his involvement as a board member of this and the International Society of Air Breathing Engines (ISABE), where he is a past Vice President.