Hove aviation pioneers to be honoured with a Blue Plaque
The Short Brothers tested in 1901 to 1903
A trio of brothers, who made some of the first planes in the history of powered flight, are to be honoured today in Hove.
The Short Brothers, Eustace, Oswald and Horace, were all involved in early aviation work, and became pioneers in the industry.
Their work began in Hove, with Eustace and Oswald testing their coal gas air balloons in St Ann's Well Gardens between 1901 and 1903. Their brother Horace's engineering laboratory in Hove was also used by the brothers for developments.
Their balloons were designed to carry flight pioneers called aeronauts, with trial flights launched in the area, drawing in more attention.
In 1903 their popularity and interest from buyers was increasing, leading to a move to London, where they set up a successful business, moving from balloons to the future of flight.
Horace joined Eustace and Oswald in their endeavour in 1908, with the trio later becoming the first company in the world to make production aircraft, later producing essential planes for the Second World War.
Today, they are being honoured in St Ann's Well Gardens with a Blue Plaque, funded by the Sussex Industrial Archaeology Society.
A ceremony will take place at 2pm.