When Amy Johnson became the first woman to fly solo from Britain to Australia in May 1930 she blazed a trail for future generations.

Now that landmark flight from Croydon to Darwin is to be recreated by a daring British woman in the hope of inspiring others to similar achievements.

Amanda Harrison, who overcame severe childhood dyslexia to become a commercial airline pilot, says she wants to show that - like Johnson in her day - women can achieve whatever they want, despite the obstacles that continue to be placed in their path.

The 46-year-old from Bromley will set off next month in a vintage de Havilland DH82a Tiger Moth, similar to the open cockpit Gypsy Moth flown by Johnson.