South Belt

Wood, Forest in Gloucestershire Cotswold

England

South Belt

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

South Belt is a small village located in the county of Gloucestershire, England. Situated within the enchanting Forest of Dean, it is surrounded by a picturesque woodland landscape that attracts nature enthusiasts and outdoor lovers alike. The village is nestled in the heart of this ancient woodland, offering residents and visitors a tranquil and idyllic setting to escape the hustle and bustle of urban life.

The village of South Belt is characterized by its charming and traditional architecture, with many buildings dating back several centuries. It is a close-knit community with a small population, fostering a friendly and welcoming atmosphere. The residents take pride in their village and actively participate in various community events and initiatives.

The Forest of Dean, which encompasses South Belt, is a haven for wildlife and boasts an array of flora and fauna. It provides ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and birdwatching. The forest is also renowned for its ancient oak trees, some of which are believed to be over 500 years old.

Despite its rural location, South Belt is conveniently located near major transportation routes, making it easily accessible. The nearby towns of Gloucester and Cheltenham offer a range of amenities including shopping centers, schools, and healthcare facilities.

Overall, South Belt is a hidden gem within the picturesque Forest of Dean, offering a peaceful and nature-filled lifestyle to its residents. With its stunning natural beauty and strong community spirit, it is a place that truly captures the essence of rural England.

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South Belt Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 51.816517/-1.7508699 or Grid Reference SP1713. 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.

South Belt

Wood, Forest in Gloucestershire Cotswold

England

South Belt

South Belt Images

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