James Beagley was 34 when he was killed in a mid-air collision on August 17th 2008 near Covewntry Airport. He was one of 5 people who died that day
There was a period between James getting his PPL and the day he made the decision that he would be, not a pilot, but an excellent pilot, a committed career pilot. From being a humble PPL to becoming an outstanding commercial pilot is a daunting undertaking that demanded absolute dedication, unwavering confidence that despite the set-backs, and there were set-backs, success would be his provided he practised a few disciplines every day. James challenged himself, consistently setting himself greater goals; his self-discipline was his bridge between a goal and achievement.
He valued above all else the warmth of friendship and the advice of his mentors, those that he had identified could teach him aeronautical excellence, Paul Bonhomme and Bruce Hutton were both mentor and inspiration. James chose to do even the most ordinary things extraordinarily well and when things didn’t go well he didn’t complain.
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| James flying "Noddy" |
James epitomised a freedom of spirit, clarity of focus, a need to push back the boundaries and explore and to learn and through greater learning came growth and most of all he was prepared to pay the price, making personal sacrifices, forgoing personal comforts, living on-site in a mobile home he was willing to risk the unusual rather than settle for the ordinary. He was bold but never reckless.
A favourite quote of his ....
“play for more than you can afford to lose and you will learn the game!”
Winston Churchill
What the James Beagley Memorial Scholarship aspires to achieve
The aim of the Scholarship is to motivate and support those ambitions of committed pilots through inspiration, stimulation and a level of financial support at a time when the ultimate goal may seem, temporarily, unattainable only from lack of financial resource. To stimulate a sense of urgency, without a sense of urgency passion loses it value; and watch them realise their full potential.
This is not a sprint, it’s a marathon - we’re in it for the long haul!
What the applicant stands for
- Really wants a career in aviation.
- Willing to sacrifice other activities to achieve the aviation goal (will do what it takes).
- Commitment to achieve the goal.
- Self-reliant.
- Proactive,
- Planner and executor of plans.
- Aged under 30.
- Educational background. Minimum GCSE maths & sciences.
- Financial background. Able to raise £3000 and show proof of funds to contribute to the course.
- Lifestyle. No drugs or excessive alcohol. Fit and healthy. Team player.
- Social network supportive of flying ambitions?
- Practical nature
The Scholarship Comittee
Alan Beagley - Jamie's Father
"Zan" Church- pilot instructor, doctor
David Blundell -
Ed Yard - Jim's close colleague & friend
West London Aero Club, White Waltham
