for that link many thanks . A riveting read . At the end there is
this summing up of the lasting legacy of the Princess and her technological
mile stones.
Saunders-Roe Tradition & the Spirit of the
Princess
The Princess story is one of human endeavour in overcoming daunting
technical & organisational challenges to create
a machine that was capable of fulfilling
the commitments undertaken by its constructor, the Saunders-Roe Company.
The fact that the Princess was actually flown in the face of the extreme
difficulties encountered is a tribute to
the perseverance & resolve of all those
involved.
Originally intended to take the art of
flying boat design to new heights under
the guidance of the most eminent flying
boat practitioners in the
country, the harsh
reality of the market place won the day.
The knowledge & experience gained from
the Princess project was of significant
benefit to the Saunders-Roe Company and
its skilled workforce. This was clearly
demonstrated by the Company’s ability to
undertake a number of innovative &
challenging projects beyond the Princess era.
Ownership changes & takeovers meant that the Saunders-Roe Company name
faded from view about 30 or more years ago.
However, it is fair to say that despite
many setbacks and disappointments the spirit of the Princess, as a symbol of human
endeavour, & the traditions of the Saunders-
Roe Company remain alive at Cowes to
the present day under the banner of the
GKN Company as GKN Aerospace Services.