Late in 1947, at the instigation of the members of the Project Office of Short Brothers Ltd. of Rochester, an approach was made to the management of that Company on the subject of subsidised flying training for employees. Enthusiasm, unlike funds, was not lacking and the proposal was sympathetically received by the management, who agreed to make flight training to “A” licence standard available at one pound per hour, pre-1939 rates. The necessary apparel, including helmets and goggles, were supplied on loan, and training began at the Rochester Flying Club on Tiger Moth aircraft which were later supplemented by Magister and Auster types.