Interesting BoB photo

[first-things-first]

Hi All

Found this photo whilst searching the net.

http://www.users.globalnet.co.uk/~no...2-603-spit.jpg

(from http://www.users.globalnet.co.uk/~no...l/spitfire.htm).

The interesting point is the steam (traction?) engine in the background.

I assume it was used as a road roller to flatten any filled in damage on the airfields or tarmac? Did they roll the ground to keep it flat as possible as Hornchurch was only a grass airfield?

The thought that came to mind was that it would have been very interesting trundling along in a steam roller at 8 mph when an air raid was on!

Cheers

Andrew

[rakinroll]

Good story mate, thank you.

[hellbomber]

Cool Story Bro!

[Davedog74]

a great shot,i lived in hornchurch for my first 24 years ,the part of the airfield pictured is still there,but looks a lot different,never really thought about that but reckon the two runways were rolled,but it did recieve bomb damage so could be for that too

the cogs in my head are turning now,your name,its motto,are you from hornchurch ?

[first-things-first]

@Davedog74

Bingo! Indeed I am.

The "airfield" (what was left of it) was my playground in my younger years.

The country park is great for unwinding.

Hornchurch was the second most bombed airfield in fighter command during the battle (behind Biggin Hill) so I am sure there were a lot of holes to fill!

Cheers

Andrew

[Davedog74]

i thought so,yep used to camp out,airgun fights etc,over there,ii went to abbs cross,lived in warren drive,devonshire rd,still got pals there,have you been to the aa gun site near moby dick,chadwell heath ?if you havnt,take a look,and purfleet museum,go on the right day and you can meet pilots and ground crew.