AN AIRWORTHY replica of an iconic First World War plane, built by a group of intrepid East Lothian individuals, is set to take flight this summer. . . but plans to make a documentary of the project have been grounded.
A group of more than 35 enthusiasts began construction of the Sopwith 11/2 Strutter aircraft 23 years ago out of a shed at the National Museum of Flight at East Fortune, working with the Aviation Preservation Society of Scotland (APSS) – the project then moved to a hangar at nearby Congalton Gardens.
Though this model of plane was originally built by women at the East Fortune airfield during the First World War, no woman has ever flown the plane.
The group now plans to partner with Ellie Carter, 21, of Devon, who became the UK’s youngest pilot at just 15, and hopes to see her become the first woman to fly the plane this summer.
Cash was being raised to make a documentary of the event, but the group has so far reached only £11,714 of its £22,300 fundraising goal.
Alex McCall, a BAFTA-winning filmmaker, was to direct the documentary had the funding been achieved.
Mike Harper, chairman of APSS, said that he was disappointed not to reach the goal but did not rule out a documentary in the future.
He said: “A huge thank you to everyone who took the time to donate and share our dreams for making a documentary telling the story of Ellie and Sophie the Strutter. We unfortunately didn’t make our target, but we did manage to raise a whopping £11,714.
“This was an unbelievable effort and has led to new conversations, a lot of press coverage and some exciting plans for the future. Overall it has been a fantastic experience for everyone.”
Gerard Lohan, 75, has been involved in the project for more than a decade, filming the build as it took place.
He said: “This has been in the works for a long time. I began working with the APSS in about 2012 and I was fascinated by the project to recreate the Strutter.
“I began documenting the build and I think I have about three terabytes of footage of it. The plan was to make a documentary when it was done.”
The flight of the plane will still take place, once regulatory approval is granted to allow the plane to fly.
Martin Whitfield, South Scotland MSP, visited the plane earlier this month.
He said: “The work of the APSS really captured my imagination when I first visited them in 2018 and I’ve followed their progress ever since. The group’s commitment to bringing our aviation history to life for future generations is inspirational and has enormous historical and educational value.
“The completed plane is a real testament to the dedication, skill and sheer hard work of those who have contributed to the project over the last 24 years.
“It is a hugely impressive achievement and I look forward to having an opportunity to see the Strutter in flight the next time I visit.”
Evan Pole, 86, has been working on the plane since the project began.
The East Linton resident, who is a retired civil engineer, said: “It’s good to see it finished now. There has been a lot of work gone into it over the years.
“I think I am one of the few original people who are left.
“Sadly, not everyone has made it to see it finished.
“But they won’t be forgotten – there will be a plaque on the plane with all their names on it.”
Mr Pole hoped to be able to join Ellie in the plane. He said: “I’ll certainly be very cross if I’m not able to fly! There is a passenger seat and I’ll be eager to get up there when it flies.”
For Ellie, who is studying aeronautics and astronautics at the University of Southampton, flying the plane will be a dream come true.
She said: “I have always wanted to fly a First World War plane. It will be a totally different experience to other planes I have flown.
“I own a Second World War plane but the difference between both is huge.
“There will be no dual control so I won’t have a co-pilot for training. I am looking forward to learning to fly it.”
Ellie said that she hoped to inspire other girls to get involved in flying.
She said: “I am a big advocate for STEM (science, technology, engineering and maths) subjects. I don’t come from a flying background or a rich background, I am just a girl who loves flying.
“I hope that can inspire others.”
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here