ALCOCK AND BROWN EXHIBITION
1919-2019
On Tuesday 16 April a reception was hosted by the Alcock and Brown Centenary Project Group (Crayford) and held in the Great Hall at Hall Place. This was to open the exhibition and launch the forthcoming celebrations. Guests included representatives from various groups and societies, and the London Borough of Bexley, who have made a donation or been involved in any way. The Mayors of Bexley and Dartford and the Rt. Hon Sir David Evennett MP were among those present, as well as former RAF Group Captain Tony Alcock MBE.
After guests had had time to visit the exhibition in the Halcot Gallery, they had the pleasure of hearing Tony Alcock talk about the extraordinary achievement of his famous uncle, John Alcock, who with Arthur Whitten Brown crossed the Atlantic for the first time in an aircraft - that was the VIMY which was originally made at Vickers Crayford. Tony also showed a fascinating film which included historic footage, then talked a little about his own career in the RAF, and how he is trying to bring the Alcock and Brown story to greater prominence.
Please do visit the exhibition (free entry) which is available until 27 October. There you will be able to pick up a free copy of the booklet which has been produced, outlining the story. There is a range of free events planned for this year so check the website, pick up a leaflet or refer to the booklet.
Do make a special note that Tuesday 23 July will be an historic day when a VIP will be unveiling new public artwork in the centre of Crayford, PICTURE BELOW, Hope to see you there! - and at any of the events.
JH-G April 2019
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
More information about this and other HLF projects can be found on crayfordhistory.org.uk