The extraordinary life and achievements of Sheila Scott OBE, one of Britain’s most accomplished aviators, will be celebrated at a free event at The Hive to mark International Women’s Day.
Born in Worcester in 1922, Sheila Scott became a trailblazer in aviation, breaking more than 100 flying records during her career, and making three solo flights around the world among many other spectacular achievements.
A blue plaque was installed at RGS Worcester in 2023 in her honour, and back in 2010, the University of Worcester named one of its buildings after her.
The free talk takes place at The Hive on Tuesday 10 March 18:30-20:00.
Event organiser, Tom Mandall, Academic Liaison Librarian for Arts and Humanities at the University of Worcester, will explore Scott’s groundbreaking accomplishments, her Worcester roots, and the lasting legacy she left behind.
“This is a celebratory introductory event for this incredible woman,” said Tom. “She’s the most decorated female pilot since Amy Johnson, and this is about championing her to celebrate International Women’s Day.”
The session will combine a presentation with an open discussion, inviting attendees to contribute their own memories and insights.
“We’ll talk through what we know of her life and her adventures in the skies,” Tom explained. “But we’ll also explore the parts that remain less well-documented, and that’s where the public can really help. People might have memories, family connections or recollections of seeing local press coverage that can add to her story.”
Jasmine Kee, Archive Assistant at The Hive is also running the event. She said: “It’s a chance to come, learn, and talk about what you’re hearing, while sharing what you think about Sheila Scott’s remarkable life.”
She added: “It’ll appeal to people interested in women’s history, Worcester’s history, social history, aviation, and much, much more. Having a diverse group of attendees will make the event even more fascinating.”
Tickets are free, and can be booked by following this link.