Wyke Farm
WYKE FARM: Private airstrip/airfield (Aka BRADFORD ABBAS and THORNFORD)
Note: For my definitions, an airstrip is just that - airstrip, singular. Typically private and grass. For a location with two or more runways it is an airfield or aerodrome or airport or air base etc. Including private locations with two or more grass airstrips, or runways.
A MOST UNUSUAL EXAMPLE
We have Mr Graham Frost, a great friend of this 'Guide' to thank for pointing out this location. In some respects very much a case of, "here you see it, now you don't." I am struggling to think of another similar example.....and failing.
Location: Roughly 1nm N of Thornford village, about 2.5nm WSW of Sherborne town centre and 3nm ESE of Yeovil town centre
Period of operation: Unknown?
NOTE: There is much speculation regarding how accurate the dating system is on Google Earth © images. From years of experience I can say it appears very poor - but what else is similar? Nothing so far? So, accepting the faults and failings, at least these pictures are in sequence.
In the 2001 picture there is one strip: 06/24 490 grass (With a short 60m extension canted to the east, at the eastern end)
The 2006 and 2010 pictures show two strips: 06/24 400 grass 08/26 400 grass
NOTE: Clearly disused in 2016? But, it seems, fully back in operation in 2017 with both airstrips as before. Lo and behold, gone again in 2018.
NOTE: The 2022 picture, (look at the field markings), appears to show the 08/26 runway, 540 metres long, has been reinstated?
NOTES: Probably a unique example of how a private flying site can evolve over many years? If anybody can kindly offer advice and information, this will be much appreciated. Plus of course, any pictures will be very welcome.
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