Dozens gathered on Herne Bay pier today to mark 75 years since legendary pilot Amy Johnson crashed off the town’s coastline.

Johnson – who was the first woman to fly solo from England to Australia – lost her life in 1941 aged 37.

To mark the anniversary, the flying star's niece Judith Chilvers joined town councillors and business bosses at a special service this afternoon.

Mrs Chilvers, 74, who is Johnson’s closest living relative, said: “I think it’s very important to remember her.

“She has certainly become an icon in today’s world and she was very heroic.

“She lost her life about 11 miles off the coast here and the people of Herne Bay have taken her to their hearts and wish to remember her.”

Former law courts administrator Jane Priston organised the event, which was held at the Amy Johnson information board by the entrance to the pier.

The event was sponsored by Makcari’s coffee lounge and ice cream parlour.

Mrs Priston, 43, is behind a commemorative project to erect a life-size bronze statue of Johnson and has launched an appeal for cash to fund it.

She said: “It’s really important to remember pioneers such as Amy as often in life they slip out of history.

“We are doing out very best here in Herne Bay to remember Amy.

“This is the 75th anniversary and what we want to do in the long-term is to have a permanent landmark to inspire and educate.”

Mrs Priston’s statue project has attracted sponsorship from businessman Dave Jordan and Stagecoach South East.

The bronze is scheduled to be unveiled in September this year.

Mrs Priston added: “What Amy did at such an incredible time was to take what she felt was her dream and her goal and go against the odds, breaking all the boundaries and rules, to pursue what she wanted to do.

“I think she really has paved the way women in aviation today and we are still celebrating her.

“Amy started it, and we’re picking up on it.

“I feel very privileged that Amy’s family have come down to be with us today – I’m delighted Herne Bay has come together to mark it."