Flies Under 15 Bridges In London
LONDON. May 5 (INS) — A down and out, 60-year-old World War I ace flew under nine to 15 London bridges in a small plane today on a spectacular, dare-devil "last flight" which he hoped would land him a job.
The stunt which had hundreds of Londoners gasping, was performed by Maj.
Christopher Draper, who spent his last $14 to rent the plane.
Never before has anyone performed — or even attempted — such a feat along the twisting Thames. The major knew it was against the law, and presumed he knew he might kill himself doing it.
He claimed he had flown under 15 bridges. Eyewitnesses were sure of at least nine.
"I shall never be allowed to fly again," the old ace acknowledged. "It was my last-ever flight.
"I meant this to be a spectacular swansong.
"I am broke and have been on the dole (relief) for 14
months. Perhaps now I may get some sort of work."
The Lowell Sun - Tuesday, May 5, 1953
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