Chipperfield's Circus - James Stockley

James Stockley

Transport and electrics expert, a brilliant mechanic. Born Stoke-on-Trent in 1914, in the motor trade there before the war. In the RAF during the war, he flew with Jimmy Chipperfield, as his navigator, and through him met Marjorie Chipperfield. Awarded the Distinguished Flying Medal (DFM) for his wartime service.

Supplement to the London Gazette, 22 May 1945 2623 Distinguished Flying Cross. Flight Lieutenant Geoffrey Cleugh CHAPMAN (120712), R.A.F.V.R., 85 Sqn.

Distinguished Flying Medal. 1219665 Flight Sergeant James STOCKLEY, R.A.F.V.R., 85 Sqn.

As pilot and observer respectively, this officer and airman have participated in very many sorties. They have proved themselves to be highly skilled, cool and resolute members of aircraft crew and their keenness for operations has won much praise. One night in March, 1945, they were responsible for the destruction of two enemy aircraft.

Married Marjorie Suzanne Phyllis Chipperfield, on 15 December 1945, at Blaby, Leicestershire. The witnesses were Don Ross the stage circus producer and Maureen Van Der Gray. Jim Stockley's forte was transport and his mechanical skills were superb. As part of Chipperfield's circus he kept the post-war show on the road, running the show as far as moving it from A to B was concerned. He was a seriously hard worker, leading from the front. Daughter Carol Elizabeth was christened, at Bristol, in 1950. A director of Chipperfield's by 1951, when its headquarters were at Down farm, Stockbridge, Hants. Looking after the transport in 1952. In the 1970s, when Chipperfield's circus returned from South Africa, Jim Stockley and his wife Marjorie remained there, running the Natal Lion Park and Game Reserve. Died on 31 May 1973, at the age of 57, following a blow to his chest during the inoculation of a gnu. Father of Jane, Carol, James (Jim) junior and Maryann. (Source: John Turner 20th Century Circus People)