First flown in October 1960, XM172 joined 56 Sqdn at RAF Wattisham and when the unit formed the 'Firebirds' display team, this was one of their aircraft. A final flight was made to Coltishall in June 1974, where it was prepared for gate guard duties, joining Spitfire SL542. Initially carrying 145 Sqdn (226 OCU) marks as operated till 1970, it was later painted in 226's own red/white colours of the mid-1960s. Removed to Booker in 1989, the Lightning was bought by a private owner at Spark Bridge in 2006

Coltishall Gate Guard.

Delivered to the RAF as XM172 in 1960. Withdrawn from use at Coltishall in 1974 and preserved there. Allocated maintenance Serial 8427M. Moved to Wycombe Air Park in 1999 then to the Lakes Lightning Collection, Spark Bridge, Cumbria in 2006.

Gate guard at Coltishall as 8427M. After a period in storage with Parkhouse Aviation at Booker, it was moved to Lakes Lightnings for preservation at Sparks Bridge, Cumbria, in April 2006.

Wears the bright colours of the based No. 226 Operational Conversion Unit and badge of 145 Squadron. Belgian Air Force C-119G CP-17 in the background.