researching WW2 aerodromes in Scotland

Discussion in 'User Introductions' started by RAFAyr, Jan 8, 2011.

  1. RAFAyr

    RAFAyr Junior ?? Member if only

    Hello folks.

    THought I'd join this to gather info on an airfield near to me. My family has farmed the fields in and arround what was RAF Ayr on the West Coast of Scotland. Known locally as the Heathfield Aerodrome and officially later in the war years as HMS Wagtail, it is now almost completely re-developed with only two sections of former runways left visible today. There are however a couple of hanger bottoms and many other building foundations, drains, cabling, articles, air raid shelter components, spitfire wheels ! left in the areas we farm.
    I am trying to gather as much information on this airfield as I can, mainly plans of how it was contructed, photos from the war years, stories from decendants of personel who were posted there.
    It was used by front line fighter squadrons as rest and recooperation, as a base for the air gunnery schools and by Ferry Command. THere was a WREN / WRNS unit based there and the remains of their accommodation blocks are still visible in our fields, as are a number of hut bottoms used as accommodation for POWs that worked on the farm.

    Anyway I'll browse through the various forums and ask away I guess.. !
    If anyone knows of where I need to go to view or get copies of any documents that may be of interest to me, I'd very much appreciate being pinted in the right direction.

    Many Thanks and Happy New Year.

    George
     
  2. spidge

    spidge RAAF RESEARCHER

  3. Jedburgh22

    Jedburgh22 Very Senior Member

  4. Peter Clare

    Peter Clare Very Senior Member

    Hello George, welcome to the forum. Hope the map helps, its taken from 'Action Stations' Vol.7 - D J. Smith.
     

    Attached Files:

  5. Oggie2620

    Oggie2620 Senior Member

    Welcome George... Nice to see someone interested in background stuff. Would love to see some pics!
     
  6. KGoddard

    KGoddard Junior Member

    Hello George and Welcome
     
  7. CL1

    CL1 116th LAA and 92nd (Loyals) LAA,Royal Artillery

    welcome to the forum
     
  8. Geoff L

    Geoff L Junior Member

    Hi George
    It was long ago that you wrote, but I've only just come across your post in January 2011 seeking info on RAF Ayr. Have you completed your research, or are you still looking? My father was a gunnery instructor at 14 APC (Armament Practice Camp) from end of December 1943 to early May 1944. Unfortunately from your viewpoint (as he had an excellent memory) he died last year, but it you're still looking, I have some logbook entries and a bit of background information that might be of interest.
    Geoff L.
     

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