Newburgh

Newburghlad · #1 12-01-2016, 07:34 PM

I was born in Newburgh in 1938 but left in early to mid 1939.l was taken back for visits on a FEW occasions. I do however remember on at least two of these visits seeing Bi-planes flying back and forth across the beach just South of Newburgh and the sound of machine -gun fire.Is there any-one out there who can corroborate this for me and even supply a little background info. I ask this for purely personal reminiscence purposes and thank "you"in advance.
Newburgh Lad

Coquet · #2 12-01-2016, 10:17 PM

Hi Newburgh, yes you most certainly would see aircraft in that area as Druridge Bay was an air gunnery practice range, before, during and after WW2. Targets were towed at sea and in the air, and the pilots had a go at shooting them up.

The WW2 Acklington Record book refers to the range frequently.

http://www.fusilier.co.uk/acklington...1939_1945.html

eg.
June 1940...."Air firing against towed targets was carried out regularly during the month by squadrons of the group on ranges at Druridge Bay....."

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