I recently had the pleasure of sitting down with John Romain for a couple of hours to talk all things Bristol Blenheim. This resulted in an article, linked below, being published on The Vintage Aviation Echo website. In it, he reflects on his 40+ year association with the Blenheim, spanning three restorations and two marks, before giving his in-depth impressions of flying ARCo’s Blenheim Mk.I.
My aim was to pay tribute to both man and machine, two halves of an enduring vintage aviation relationship. Hopefully there is some content of interest, not least a stunning set of air-to-air images from John Dibbs (and a couple from ARCo’s George Romain).
http://vintageaviationecho.com/arco-blenheim/
I’m aware that there are several posters here who have history with this particular aircraft, some of whom have doubtless enjoyed a very long association. It would be wonderful to hear some of their recollections in this thread, if they can be persuaded to comment.
The low-res screenshot below was taken by The Blenheim Society for use on their website, and gives a good idea of the type of image contained within.
By: Rocketeer - 7th January 2018 at 09:21
Excellent. My grandfather translated manuals for Robs Yaks in the 80s. So as a boy I would often go to Duxford with him. We would end up in B66 as Robs and Graham were close. The enthusiasm, dedication of John and Smudge was obvious, even to a youngster
By: baz62 - 7th January 2018 at 03:18
Wow those photos are stunning. I was lucky enough to spend a few minutes talking to John Romain when he was here in New Zealand for the 2015 Classic Fighters Airshow at Omaka. I was telling him about my Auster project and he told me his first airshow display may well have been an Auster (A MK9 I think) which certainly made my day. A lovely chap to talk to and I hope to visit ARCo when I finally revisit the UK.
By: NEEMA - 6th January 2018 at 07:58
I totally agree with all the praise being offered regarding this article. John Romain gave a uniquely informed interview, which Elliott presented in a very readable manner. The photography was also of an extremely high order technically. It will be a tough act to follow but I ,for one ,will be following the Vintage Aviation Echo Website closely.
By: DH82EH - 5th January 2018 at 15:06
Thanks so much for posting this Elliot.
I agree that it is easily the best article written on the subject, accompanied by the finest images.
Reading Johns quotes about displaying the aircraft reminded me of watching the video of his display in the Buchon at Headcorn.
Lots of energy while passing by the crowd line leaves you in a much better position should the engine quit.
Convert that speed in to altitude and it gives you the best chance for the best outcome, as witnessed by that deadstick Buchon landing. World class aviating that.
As far as John flying the 109 I got to witness that and met with John when Wk Nr. 3579 was resident here in Canada.
Reading about the loss of the first two restorations hurts every time. Such a heartbreak.
I can also appreciate the sense of responsibility while operating this machine that has so many little quirks that could make for a bad day.
It reminds me of a quote regarding flying the Buchon. “It’s a lot like making love to a beautiful woman, while your wife is watching, rather difficult to enjoy”!
Cheers
Andy
By: Seafuryfan - 4th January 2018 at 23:14
Congratulations. It’s great to see the coming together of top spec journalism, photography, and subject matter, the result of which is a very high quality article. A great insight for both enthusiasts and operators.
By: GliderSpit - 4th January 2018 at 15:17
Excellent. Thanks!
By: Trolly Aux - 4th January 2018 at 14:58
Great read Elliot and your others.
The photo has to be a John Dibbs surely?
By: FarlamAirframes - 4th January 2018 at 14:04
Elliott an excellent update to the Blenheim story.
I recently read the details of the first restoration recounted in “The Forgotten Bomber” by Graham Warner that has many pictures of a young john Romain and others.
By: Bruce - 4th January 2018 at 13:28
Cracking article there Elliott.
By: Tango Charlie - 4th January 2018 at 13:09
Without doubt the finest Blenheim pictures I have ever seen, quite simply stunning and outstanding! Will enjoy reading the article tonight.
By: scotavia - 4th January 2018 at 12:54
The best article I have read on the subject, magnificent images as well, of particular interest was the engine issues and the knowledge needed.
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January 4, 2018 at 12:15 pm