As part of the Aviation Heritage Trail series, the airfields and
interest in this book are concentrated in a particular area - in this
case West Sussex, Hampshire, Dorset, Wiltshire and Cornwall.
The South and South-west of England emerged from six years of war with a
rich diversity of RAF bomber and fighter airfields used by the 2nd
Tactical Air Force, both before and after the D-Day landings. Much of
this proud legacy is now threatening to disappear. However, the tourist
can combine visits to an abundance of disused and active airfields,
country houses and museums with countless attractions, imaginative
locations, broad land, and coastal hideaways that have no equal.
The airfields and other places of interest include Hartford Bridge,
Lasham, Westhamptonett, Merston, Odiham, Holmsley South, Funtington,
Hurn, Ford, Tangmere, Ibsley, Perranporth, Thruxton, Thorney Island,
Appledram, Selesy, Needs Oar Point, Zeals, Lee-on-Solent and Bognor
Regis.
This book looks at the history and personalities associated with each
base, what remains today and explores the favorite local wartime haunts
where aircrew and ground crew would have sought well-deserved
entertainment and relaxation. Other museums and places that are relevant
will also be described and general directions on how to get them
included.