5 September 2006

Students research first UK balloon flight

A LARGE 6’ by 4’ PRINT OF JAMES TYTLER’S BALLOON WILL BE AVAILABLE FOR PICS TOMORROW AM

Historic flight pioneer inspires entrepreneurs

Students from the University of Dundee will tomorrow launch a research project to shed light on the first British man to fly a hot air balloon.

In 1784, one year after the pioneer hot-air balloon ascent by the Mongolfier brothers in France, James Tytler (1745-1804) completed the first British aerial ascent in the "Grand Edinburgh Fire Balloon". Tytler who came from Fearn near Brechin was an accomplished writer and editor. He trained as a surgeon and traded as a pharmacist in Edinburgh. He contributed to the second and third edition of the Encyclopaedia Britannica and was a driving force behind its expansion. He befriended Robert Burns and his contribution to balladry and folk songs enriched Scottish music tradition.

Despite his many talents, his vision and resourcefulness, Tytler failed to capitalise on any of his ventures: all his enterprises led him to debts. While never lacking in ideas Tytler was unable to transform them into successful ventures. How did a man with so many talents could display so little entrepreneurial skills? Is this the reason this talented Scot has failed to attract the attention he deserves?

In an effort to shed some light on Tytler’s achievements, Angus Council and The Enterprise Gym at the University of Dundee are launching a research project on James ‘Balloon’ Tytler. By exploring his enterprises in relation to the culture in which he lived, we may understand better the man and also, rather belatedly, bestow some credence to his life’s work and celebrate his achievements.

The Enterprise Gym is part of the Centre for Enterprise Management at the University of Dundee. With the support of the local business community, and, for this project, of Angus Council, The Enterprise Gym offers undergraduate and postgraduate students the opportunity to develop entrepreneurial skills. This project will bring a historical dimension to the culture of enterprise and will intend to re-evaluate its impact on Scottish heritage.

We are looking for any information concerning James Tytler or events related to his life. If you think you can contribute, please contact n.rosset@dundee.ac.uk

For further information on The Enterprise Gym go to http://enterprise-gym.com

A PHOTO CALL WILL TAKE PLACE TOMORROW AT 11:15am, in room G7, Tower Building, Perth Road. Alternatively we will have pics available.

For media enquiries contact:

Anna Day
Press Office
University of Dundee
Nethergate Dundee, DD1 4HN
TEL: 01382 384768
E-MAIL: a.c.day@dundee.ac.uk