Cottingham
Note: This map only gives a rough idea of the location. If anybody can provide a more exact position, this would be much appreciated.
COTTINGHAM: Temporary flying site
NOTES: According to David Luff, who I think has produced the definitive biography of Amy Johnson in his book; Amy Johnson - Enigma in the Sky, Surrey Flying Services arrived at a field alongside "Endike Lane", in or near COTTINGHAM in November 1926, using "Avro" aircraft, (Presumably Avro 504s and/or 536s? Perhaps operating just one aircraft?). This road is now spelt Endyke Lane.
A roughly five minute 'joy-ride" cost 5 shillings for the four pasengers. It appears that Amy went along with her younger sister Mollie, cycling to the site, paid her money for her and Mollie, and, although describing the experience as "enjoyable" Amy was not too impressed as the pilot didn't perform any stunts.
I think it is useful to put that 5 shillings cost into context. It was very expensive and pretty much a rip-off. In those days a well paid office job in London paid around £4.10 shillings (£4.50) a week. And, you buy a very decent house in the London suburbs for something like £750.
This it now appears was the only contact Amy Johnson had with aviation until moving to London, and even then she took no interest in aviation until 1928 when she became a member of the London Aeroplane Club at STAG LANE.
We'd love to hear from you, so please scroll down to leave a comment!
Leave a comment ...
Copyright (c) UK Airfield Guide