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    Shire Extra for lanarkshire Shire Extra Across Lanarkshire

Lanark – Aviation Show Memorial

Background

This memorial is called “The Spirit of Flight” and was erected in 2010 to commemorate the centenary of Scotland’s first air show, held at Lanark’s Racecourse on 6th August 1910, which took place over eight days. It was only the second International Flight Meeting held in the UK.

Situated on the former Lanark to Muirkirk railway line at the car park entrance to Lanark Loch, the sculpture was designed and created by Ratho Byres Forge. The structure depicts three planes, the Bristol Boxkite, the Belriot and the Antoinette. All three made the flight to Lanark and performed some stunts in the air that thrilled the crowds.

The Wright brothers invented and flew the first successful airplane in 1903. Just seven years later, twenty aviators came to Lanark for the show, taking part in competitions and showing the public that it was possible to fly. It was also only a year after Louis Bleriot became the first person to fly across the English channel.

A sign at the memorial gives comprehensive details of the first global achievem   ents and records made during the aviation show. Sadly, during the early years of flight, many aviators were hurt or killed at other airshows held throughout the world. However, Lanark was the first air show where this did not happen. Although beds were reserved at the nearby St Mary’s Hospital, they were not needed.

The event attracted 250,000 people. A railway station was created at Lanark racecourse to handle such high volumes of attendees. 14 special trains per day were organized for each day of the show.

To visit the website of Ratho Byres Forge, click HERE.

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