About this collection
Employees of Midland Bank (now HSBC UK) organised numerous sports and social clubs during the first half of the twentieth century. One of the most eye-catching was the Flying Club, which ran from 1936 to 1949. The club purchased its own aeroplanes and members were able to sign up for lessons. In the build-up to the Second World War it was announced that club members could join the Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve as trainee pilots, or as air-crew with equipment and ground duties. Many would go on to serve their country during the conflict, and the aircraft were requisitioned by the UK government. These images capture the club in happier times – before and after the war.
