If Bren's going to play, so will I.
I remember in the early/mid 50s going to Southsea with my parents several times and doing boat trips to Southampton Docks. On one occasion there were several flying boats (Solents or Sandringhams?) moored at what I now know to be Hythe, and on another ('56) there was a boat moored next to the QE1. On all occasions, the Princess boats at Calshot were clearly visible.

An od thought goes through my mind. Shorts have produced some of the most beautiful aeroplanes ever, but some of the ugliest (Skyvan) as well. It is the same company?

Synthetic
 

When a reconditioned Sunderland left the factory/MU some of the equipment, leak stopprs etc, were contained in aluminium suitcases.
These were large brown painted with a strong leather handle and stainless steel locks. A squared off shape with vertical sides. As they were non inventory items they were claimed by the ferry crew.
The story goes that Shorts enlarged the shape attached wings...........
The Skyvan !

Kermit Weeks Sunderland
 

I visited Fantasy of Flight 3 weeks ago and Kermit was away in Alaska but his staff said that the plan for the Sunderland was for it to become a floating cafe on the lake but still remain airworthy. The Connie would also become a cafe but on land.

I want to set up a charity to return a Sandringham to flying condition and exhibit it around the world at airshows.

Any takers for positions of trustee?

More to the point, any Ppruners with a few million quid spare?

Being airworthy, and going to fly are not, unfortunately the same. Kermit Week's Mosquito is in the E.A.A. Museum at Oshkosh, where it is described as 'Airworthy', but I don't believe it flew once it was delivered to him many years ago. I suspect the Sandringham will have the same fate. I have met Mr. Weeks, nice guy, always prepared to talk aeroplanes, and I certainly applaud all he has done. I heard a rumour that he owns half of Miami Beach!!!. [I may see him at Oshkosh this year, so will ask him if this is true!!!]

JEM

When you see him do ask him if he'll fill the Sandringham with dollar bills and donate it to my charity.

pjac
 

Can anyone tell me what the significance of the name "Trimble" is, that is painted on the side of the Sandringham at Polk City?


Thanks in advance.

Looks to me like the Trimble is simply a sponsor. The logo font is the same as the GPS kit nmanufacturers.