The Lakes Flying Company, the organisation behind the replica of 1911’s Waterbird — the first truly successful aeroplane to fly from the surface of Windermere, the scene of many pioneering water-borne aviation activities — has received another prize to add to its collection. The Vintage Aircraft Club recently presented the team with its Desmond Penrose Silver Salver, in honour of the great former de Havilland test pilot, for vintage aeroplane of the year. Penrose was on hand to make the award.
This adds to the Bremont Special Recognition Award from the National Transport Trust, and the Robert Pleming Memorial Award for Innovation from Aviation Heritage UK. While the Waterbird itself has returned to its winter quarters at Liverpool John Lennon Airport following its successful maiden public flights from Windermere on 23 September, Lakes Flying Company chairman Ian Gee confirms the plan is to return to the lake for another event during 2023, this time using the northern part. Beyond that, it is hoped to establish a permanent home for the aeroplane at Windermere, acting as a heritage centre and a base for future flying operations.
