Carlisle man helps transform helicopter in Glastonbury centrepiece

Andrew Parrini, who previously lived in the city and attended Newman School in his younger years, played a part in transforming a disused Royal Navy Seaking Helicopter into a display that featured at the iconic summer festival that took place between Wednesday, June 26, and Sunday, June 30.

(Image: Supplied) The helicopter with the registration XV654 was heading for potential destruction before it was rescued by Andrew and Arcadia Spectacular, a group of creative engineers who have helped put on a number of unique events at Glastonbury. 

Instead of allowing the helicopter to be scrapped, Andrew and Arcadia took it to their workyard near Bristol where it was modified and became 'The Dragonfly' - the centerpiece of Arcadia's Glastonbury 2024 event.

The centerpiece was featured in three TV clips at the event, and after seeing the 'The Dragonfly', Andrew's dad Tony, who lives in Rockcliffe, expressed his delight. 

He said: "I am so proud of what Andy has achieved and know he has put many hours in helping to prepare this spectacular display at Glastonbury.

(Image: Supplied) "I look forward to him having a good break soon and making a visit back to us for a rest."

Andrew had been employed by Arcadia since March 2024 and took part in making 'The Dragonfly's body watertight and undertook various repairs before being part of the installation and maintenance team at the event which was headlined by Coldplay, Dua Lipa, and SZA.

Andrew was joined at the festival by his brother, and fellow former Newman School student, Mark Parrini who was part of the festival's site security. 

Andrew and Mark Parrini (Image: Supplied) Arcadia's other shows include Lords of Lightning and Metamorphosis, which featured custom stages such as The Spider, which was made out of recycled military hardware, and Pangea, which was the first bespoke production for Glastonbury.