This print, by Kenneth McDonough, shows the airfield as it was just before the outbreak of the second world war. It is based on an reconnaissance photograph taken by a German airline pilot en route for Croydon. Crossley Close can be seen in the bottom right corner of the photo. Also on this photo can be seen the Anti-Aircraft Defence School on the land behind Crossley Close.

It is apt that I should use this painting to represent Crossley Close as Flight Lieutenant Michael Crossley was commander of 32 squadron flying hurricanes out of Biggin Hill during the Battle of Britain.

Courtesy of Joseph Merchant

Tony Lewis