Venton Wyn
Note: This map only shows my estimate of roughly where the field used was located. If anybody can kindly offer advice, this will be much appreciated.
VENTON WYN: Temporary aerodrome
This picture from the Philips family was scanned from Ted Chapmans excellent book Cornwall Aviation Company published in 1979. (see Notes below). The actual caption is: "A test flight from Venton Wyn with two engineers aboard. c. 1930."
Operated by: Cornwall Aviation Company
Location: Presumably W of the A390, roughly halfway between Lostwithiel and St Blazey
NOTES: Percival Philips, a distinguished ex-RFC WW1 pilot, was associated with the Hill & Philips garage in St Austell, and in 1924 saw a chance to resume flying offering joy-rides during the summer season. In May 1924 the Cornwall Aviation Company was founded and Capt. Philips went to Wantage in Oxfordshire to collect the Avro 504K from the Berkshire Aviation Company, purchased for £250. In addition he also procured the services of A J Adams, a Licensed Ground Engineer who, without any doubt also ensured the success of the company.
G-EBIZ went on to become one of the most famous Avros in British aviation history. By May 1933 it was reported that Capt. Philips had carried some 67,000 passengers without incident, mostly in G-EBIZ.
Initially the Avro 504K could carry two passengers, with the pilot sitting behind. However, the Cornwall Aviation Company, (were they alone in this?), worked out that by putting the pilot in front, albiet with a far more restricted field of view, four passengers could be carried.
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