Statue of Lord Dowding, Baron of Bentley Priory

Air Chief Marshal Lord Dowding was Commander-in-Chief of RAF Fighter Command, from its formation in 1936 until November 1940. He had put in place all the elements of the air defence network for Great Britain just before the threat of invasion by Germany became a reality in 1940.

With remarkable foresight, he had equipped his command with fast and manoeuvrable monoplane fighters, the Hurricane and the Spitfire. He was quick to appreciate the strategic advantage that Radio Direction Finding, (RADAR) could give to the defensive system, providing early warning and therefore time to prepare his fighter defences. He installed an effective communications network to provide efficient command and control for his squadrons. He had prepared the country for the forthcoming battle.

Thorough training of his personnel was instigated by him, and he conserved his minimal forces against political pressure to spend them on the defence of France. His prudent leadership helped to gain victory over the German Luftwaffe, preventing the loss of the Battle of Britain.

The sculptor was Faith Winter and the architect was CA Hart. It was unveiled by HM The Queen Mother on 30 October 1988.