A PILOT from Wotton under Edge has won an aviation scholarship from the British Women Pilots’ Association (BWPA).

Laura Mayer, who is already an experienced flying instructor, was awarded the BWPA's Flying High scholarship.

“The scholarship means I can take on further training and expand what I can offer as an instructor," said Laura.

"I will be able to teach people how to cope with deteriorating weather conditions and make sensible decisions.

"This is incredibly important for flying in the UK. To be able to pass these skills to my students would be a dream come true."

Over 100 women from across the UK applied for the scholarships.

They were shortlisted by a panel of judges who determined which of the candidates showed the most promise for their future flying.

The BWPA offers scholarships every year to support women in the UK in achieving their flying ambitions, underlying its key aim to promote their training and employment within the sector.

“Only five to six per cent of professional pilots in the UK and worldwide are women and the percentages in general aviation are similar," said BWPA chair Sharon Nicholson.

"Much of this is due to lack of information and opportunity.”

Anyone interested in learning more about the BWPA scholarships and awards should visit: bwpa.co.uk