Emily Horton
Editor, Sheengate Publishing
Windsor Magazine April 2016
Surrey Downs Magazine – Capt Eric 'Winkle' Brown
Emily's hello – The Windsor, Ascot and Maidenhead Magazine, April 2016
Recently I was lucky enough to speak on BBC Radio 4’s Today Programme, having interviewed legendary aviator Capt Eric ‘Winkle’ Brown CBE shortly before he passed away (read my tribute to him here). As the world’s most decorated test pilot, he pushed himself – and his aircraft – to the limits of the possible, paving the way for modern technological advances and setting three Guinness World Records. Even non-aviation geeks should have Capt Brown on their list of greatest Britons, such were his formidable feats in the line of duty.
On the same theme, Maidenhead Heritage Centre is custodian of the legacy of the Air Transport Auxiliary – the wartime flying transport corps based out of White Waltham. Capt Brown was a great admirer of Pauline Gower, head of the women’s section, who secured the opportunity for women to become professional pilots on equal pay with the men – quite something in 1941. Read the article here.
The Heritage Centre houses the ATA’s fullest collection of archives. Conscientiously run by chairman Richard Poade and his volunteers, and entirely dependent upon donations, the centre is a great resource for studying the area’s rich history. So, go emulate Capt Brown by flying a Spitfire in the museum’s simulator; learn about the ladies who led the emancipation of the skies; and, of course, support a valuable local initative. Long may it prosper.
Over and out 'til next month, Emily
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Read Emily's tribute to legendary Capt Eric 'Winkle' Brown CBE below:
http://www.essentialsurrey.co.uk/news/tribute-to-captain-eric-winkle-brown/