I don’t know how many the total was, but I understand that 616 Squadron had the record as an indivdual unit, 7 in total including the only RAF Bof B pilot shot down over enemy territory to make it back.

Sorting through my old slides, I found these pics of Flambards, Helston in Cornwall, in 1985 and was wondering where all these planes are now. I have looked on Google Earth but cannot see them there now. Any ideas? Tony

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Tony to find out the current state of the Sea Prince, Wessex & Whirlwind see here- http://www.aeroventure.org – you’ll be pleased to know the Whirlwind is no longer sectioned & has been beautifully restored by the YHPG at Aeroventure (look at the links section & you can pull-up their website) .

Ironically, in August 1999 I chose Flambards as the site to observe the Solar Eclipse. The Sea Prince & Wessex were in the background, but little did I know at the time that nearly 20 years later I would see them literally on my doorstep.

No problem Peter- in Notts, there’s much consternation that Yorkshire has nicked Robin Hood (yep, Sherwood Forest does go over the border ) , let alone giving them an airfield a few miles from Nottingham.:) Regards Rad.

Just a suggestion, if it is permissible under american flying legislation, why not restore it to the colours the beech wore including the registration, when it was operated by Douglas Bader ? – You can always put its US registration on the fin & with such a well known (on both sides of the pond ) & historic figure owning the aircraft, it would make a great talking point with other pilots.:)

There are quite comprehensive photos on the net regarding the build, the fuselage appears to be a traditional aluminium monocoque, the wings seem to have quite a bit of steel box and angle, especially at the root end; not a bad thing when you have hundreds of people clambering over them at shows.

I’ve just had a look at a few photo’s & it looks superb,thanks for the prompt reply- the report I’ve just read confirms your quote.

I have said in a previous thread that on merit this decision was wrong, however as Lindy’s Lad has said there are many out there prepared to give it a good home- lets hope this is the case.

Incidently, can anyone tell me what construction methods were employed & a contact name for the builders please.

Well done Mark, without meaning to knock other service charities it’s fantastic to know that you are supporting St Dunstan’s.

As you say it helps blind Ex-servicmen, but doesn’t get as much publicity as it deserves.

In my mind, of all the injuries the loss of vision is by far the worst & I cannot even begin to imagine what its like for those who have lost their sight.

I am not linked to the charity, but I will sponsor you & wish you all the best.

Please keep us all posted.

Regards Rad.:)