Flemish 92-year-old triumphs over business tycoon
A local business exec's plan to organise an airshow in East Flanders was foiled when one elderly woman literally refused to budge
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Naessens (pictured) is a football sponsor and equestrian enthusiast as well as being an entrepreneur in the construction industry. He had planned to lay on a small-scale airshow with several light aircraft and a helicopter.
However, in order to obtain the necessary permits, he had to ensure that people living on the street below over-flying planes vacated their homes for safety reasons. Naessens arranged free tickets and a reception for residents who left their homes for the 90 minute duration. He got everyone to agree. Almost.
One 92-year-old woman feared she might not be able to return to her home immediately when it was all over and refused to leave. Her family agreed, and the airshow has been cancelled. “Of course I find it a terrible pity, but I respect everyone’s opinion,” Naessens said. “The law is the law.”
But, as Knack magazine put it, “Willy Naessens wouldn’t be Willy Naessens if he didn’t have another stunt up his sleeve.” Instead of an airshow, he’s organising a crooner festival, with last-minute appearances by De Romeo’s, Christoff and Laura Lynn.
Photo credit: Willy Naessens Group
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