Flying Boat Pilot in War and Peace
An evening talk at The Bedford, by local author Mark Alderson
We are privileged to present a fascinating evening talk by local author Mark Alderson. Disaster and survival are the themes, as Mark reflects on the extraordinary life and career of his father - Captain M.J.R. ‘Roly’ Alderson.
At just twelve, Roly Alderson was inspired to fly after hearing of Ross Smith’s record-breaking flight from England to Australia. Orphaned and denied formal schooling, he built his own car, earned a place at Cambridge, and graduated with a degree, a pilot’s licence, and a racing Bentley.
By 1933, with hundreds of flight hours logged, Alderson joined Imperial Airways. His talent led to high-profile assignments, including flying the Viceroy of India on his farewell tour. But it was the majestic flying boats that truly captured his imagination. He soon piloted them on routes to Africa and later the prestigious New York–Bermuda line.
In 1939, Alderson’s warnings about icing on his flying boat Cavalier went unheeded. The aircraft later ditched in the Atlantic. Thanks to his expert flying and a passenger’s bravery, ten of thirteen on board survived an eleven-hour ordeal at sea.
During the war, Alderson flew dangerous routes across Africa and the Atlantic, including a secret mission transporting General de Gaulle. He later piloted massive Boeing flying boats carrying vital mail and VIPs—including President Roosevelt’s gift of cigars to Churchill.
Alderson’s story is one of daring adventure, wartime heroics, and the golden age of aviation brought vividly to life.
Flying Boat Pilot in War and Peace
a presentation by Mark Alderson
The Bedford Hotel
Thursday 25th September 2025, 7pm
Tickets £8
Food will be available to order from 6pm, and the bar will be open as usual.
All proceeds from ticket sales will be donated to the Devon Air Ambulance
Book online, or call 01822 613221.
Meet the Author
Mark Alderson began his working life as a land agent, morphed into an antiques dealer, became a sailor, and finally trained as a palliative care health professional.
In the early eighties, he sailed across the Atlantic in a small boat with his girlfriend, followed by seven years as a crew member on the Salcombe Lifeboat.
Growing up with a pioneer aviator as a father, flying was always in his DNA. Having gained his private pilot's licence, he set about building a flying boat (which subsequently featured in a TV documentary, "A Boat in the Sky") with a couple of friends.
Now without aeroplane or boat, Mark lives in Devon with two horses, a dog and his wife - not necessarily in that order!
