In December 1939, a team under Geoffrey de Havilland, with R E Bishop and C C Walker, started detailed design on a light bomber constructed entirely of wood. The first prototype flew on 25 November 1940. Conceived as an unarmed fast light bomber, the Mosquito was also planned as a photo-reconnaissance aircraft and a night fighter. The second aircraft, flown on 15 May 1941, was the night fighter prototype. A total of 466 Mosquito Night Fighter Mk IIs were produced, but the total production of all types of Mosquito was 7785, built at factories in Britain, Canada and Australia. With a maximum speed of over 400 mph, and outstanding versatility, the Mosquito became one of the most successful aircraft of the Second World War.

HJ711 is the product of many years of dedicated restoration work by Tony Agar and his helpers.