Darlington model flying club seeks new home after 50 years

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 18 Oct, 06:31 · Archive

Darlington and District Model Flying Club must find a new field after being told it may have to leave Cowton Moor, where it has flown for almost 50 years.

Darlington and District Model Flying Club is appealing for help to find a new flying field after receiving notice it may have to leave its home of almost 50 years at Cowton Moor. The club, with roots dating back to the Second World War, hopes a landowner, farmer or business owner may be able to offer a suitable piece of land.

The club caters for flyers ranging from young beginners aged around eight to experienced members in their 80s. Chairman Neil Dixon said the field had become far more than just a flying site. 'For around 50 years, our current field has been more than just a flying site,' Mr Dixon said. 'It has become a meeting place, especially for many of our older and retired members, who come along not only to fly model aircraft but also to enjoy company, conversation and a cup of tea in our clubhouse.'

The club's history dates back to the post-war years, when members met at Darlington Library before moving to the former Croft Aerodrome, where model aircraft were flown alongside full-size planes. In the late 1970s, members were offered use of a field on Cowton Moor, where they have remained ever since. The club has weathered previous challenges; during the foot-and-mouth outbreak, members temporarily flew from Catterick Racecourse until restrictions were lifted.

How it is being reported

• Darlington model flying club issues plea for new home after 50 years on one fieldA Darlington model flying club with a history dating back to the Second World War is appealing for help to find a new field after being told it may have to leave its home of 50 years.Darlington & Stockton Times · 18 Oct, 06:00
• Darlington model flying club issues plea for new home after 50 years on one fieldA Darlington model flying club with a history dating back to the Second World War is appealing for help to find a new field after being told it may have to leave its home of 50 years.The Northern Echo · 18 Oct, 05:30

In this story: Darlington and District Model Flying Club · Cowton Moor · Darlington · Neil Dixon · Croft Aerodrome · Catterick Racecourse

This summary was written by AI from the headlines and standfirsts above, and states as fact only what at least two outlets report. How we use AI · Report a problem