Brimpton
BRIMPTON: Private airfield
(Also known as WASING LOWER FARM)
Note: All pictures by the author unless specified.
Operated by: Alan House Esq, Sylmar Aviation & Services
Location: W of A340, 1nm W of Aldermaston, 6 nm ESE of Newbury
Period of operation: 1984 (?) to present day
Note: Reproduced with the kind permission of Pooleys Flight Equipment Ltd. Copyright Robert Pooley 2014
Runway: 07/25 535x25 gras s (additional 100mtrs on 25 for take-off)
NOTE: My first visit to BRIMPTON (on the 23rd September 1997) was when taking a very good friend who is an expert on British canals and waterways to photograph the Kennet and Avon canal in the Cessna 172 G-WACL. On the way back he felt very ill so I quickly diverted unannounced into BRIMPTON where we were very kindly treated.
On meeting Alan House who operated the airfield, I decided to produce an article because his history really is fascinating. I flew down in the Cessna 152 G-WACF on the 11th August 1998 on a subsequent visit, and Alan treated me to a flight in his Saab 91D Safir G-ARLK. Along the way Alan allowed me to 'pole' his Safir around the sky and it was very revealing. It flew as if on rails, exhibiting characteristics normally associated with much heavier aircraft.
I took some pictures and notes but for some reason, (I usually had most of my articles published), the best selling magazines took no interest, which surprised me. The story of how he managed to get this aircraft restored and onto the British register is a remarkable feat of dogged determination against seemingly overwhelming odds.
Apart from achieving this, and establishing BRIMPTON as a very active GA airfield, Alan House, is a world expert on the Hunting piston Provost. When I visited in 1998 there were two examples in his hangar.
BRIMPTON PICTURES
*NOTE: I have included this sign simply because it illustrates how an airfield can be both responsible, and friendly towards visitors. An example I think which should be followed at most airfields. The GA community often wonder why so many people seem to be against General Aviation - but can we really be dismayed when, if the public approach the airfield they are invariably confronted by signs which, on the whole, tell them to go away and stay well clear.
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