Who was Sheila Scott and what records did she break?

Sheila Scott was a pioneering aviator, the first British person to fly solo around the world in 1966, and held over 100 aviation records, including being the first person to fly solo over the North Pole.

What is being done to recognize Sheila Scott's achievements?

An event called "The Sensational Life of Sheila Scott: Worcester's Queen of the Skies" is being held at The Hive in Worcester to bring recognition to her largely unknown accomplishments.

When did Sheila Scott achieve her record-breaking solo flight around the world?

Sheila Scott completed her record-breaking solo flight around the world in 1966.

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Sheila Scott: Forgotten Aviator's Daring Solo Flights

8 Mar

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Summary

She was the first British person to fly solo around the world.
Scott broke over 100 aviation records in her lifetime.
A special event aims to give her overdue recognition in Worcester.

Sheila Scott: Forgotten Aviator's Daring Solo Flights

Sheila Scott, born Sheila Hopkins in Worcester in 1922, achieved remarkable feats in aviation, including the longest solo flight around the world in 1966. This journey marked her as the first British person to complete such a circumnavigation. She also holds the distinction of being the third woman globally to achieve this, and was the first person to fly solo over the North Pole in 1971.

Scott's path to aviation was unconventional. After serving as a nurse during World War Two and briefly pursuing acting, she discovered flying in the late 1950s. Despite initial challenges, including a less-than-natural aptitude for flying and driving, her tenacity led her to break over 100 aviation records. Notably, one weekend saw her in the air for 48 hours, setting three records.