Quarry Wood

Wood, Forest in Gloucestershire Cotswold

England

Quarry Wood

RAF Windrush ancillary building RAF Windrush opened in Spring 1940 and closed in Autumn 1945. Its role was to train pilots for the Royal Air Force. The role was unspectacular but contributed greatly to the success of the RAF and eventual victory. It is not known how many pilots passed through the Windrush training programmes but it they are certainly numbered in their thousands. Training courses ran for four weeks for the single-engined Harvard Advanced Trainer and six weeks for the twin-engined Oxford and Anson aircraft. Over 1500 personnel were based here including ground crews, trainee pilots, flying instructors and WAAF staff, with approximately 90 aircraft in all.

Being a training airfield there were many crashes on the airfield itself and in the vicinity with a number of fatalities. A plaque mounted on the control tower commemorates the action of Sergeant Pilot Bruce Hancock of the Voluntary Reserve on the evening of Sunday 18th August 1940. That night, while flying an unarmed Avro Anson trainer he was seen to sacrifice his life by ramming and destroying an attacking enemy Heinkel 111 bomber. Another plaque commemorating this incident is mounted in the wall of the churchyard of St Peter’s, Windrush. — RAF Windrush ancillary building Credit: Vieve Forward

Quarry Wood is a picturesque woodland located in the county of Gloucestershire, England. Covering an area of approximately 50 acres, this enchanting forest is a popular destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

The wood is characterized by its diverse range of flora and fauna, with a rich variety of trees such as oak, beech, and ash dominating the landscape. These towering trees provide a dense canopy, creating a serene and tranquil atmosphere within the wood. The forest floor is adorned with a vibrant carpet of wildflowers, adding to its natural beauty.

Quarry Wood is a haven for wildlife, providing a habitat for numerous species. Birdwatchers flock to the area to catch a glimpse of the many resident and migratory birds, including woodpeckers, owls, and various songbirds. Squirrels and rabbits can be spotted darting through the undergrowth, while occasional sightings of deer and foxes add to the sense of wilderness.

Visitors to Quarry Wood can explore its network of well-maintained walking trails, which wind their way through the forest. These paths offer the opportunity to immerse oneself in the tranquility of nature, with occasional seating areas and picnic spots to rest and take in the surroundings.

Quarry Wood is a true gem of Gloucestershire, offering a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Whether it's a leisurely stroll, birdwatching, or simply enjoying the beauty of nature, this woodland has something for everyone.

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Quarry Wood Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 51.825419/-1.7597879 or Grid Reference SP1614. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

RAF Windrush ancillary building

RAF Windrush opened in Spring 1940 and closed in Autumn 1945. Its role was to train pilots for the Royal Air Force. The role was unspectacular but contributed greatly to the success of the RAF and eventual victory. It is not known how many pilots passed through the Windrush training programmes but it they are certainly numbered in their thousands. Training courses ran for four weeks for the single-engined Harvard Advanced Trainer and six weeks for the twin-engined Oxford and Anson aircraft. Over 1500 personnel were based here including ground crews, trainee pilots, flying instructors and WAAF staff, with approximately 90 aircraft in all. Being a training airfield there were many crashes on the airfield itself and in the vicinity with a number of fatalities. A plaque mounted on the control tower commemorates the action of Sergeant Pilot Bruce Hancock of the Voluntary Reserve on the evening of Sunday 18th August 1940. That night, while flying an unarmed Avro Anson trainer he was seen to sacrifice his life by ramming and destroying an attacking enemy Heinkel 111 bomber. Another plaque commemorating this incident is mounted in the wall of the churchyard of St Peter’s, Windrush.

Vieve Forward