A very interesting post and surprised that Southend EGMC has not yet been mentioned . In the late 50’s early 60’s a number of atca’s made the transition to ATCOs encouraged by the management also a loan of £146 to obtain their PPL at the Southend Municipal Flying School.A very busy period at EGMC with the cross channel traffic and charter operations I believe EGMC was the third busiest airport in the UK at that time . The operation was quite challenging including the operation of the Echo ARAA. Happy days !!!