Hi RPJ – Welcome to the Forum!

I would like to see more, if you would be so kind.

Gromit.

Excellent news!

I’ll be down as soon as the weather changes and things dry out a bit.

Your link seems to be out of date – try this one:

http://www.rotecengines.com/PhotoOfTheMonth/10-11Avro504.html

Yes, the published number is now defunct.

A very nice “old school” Fly-In, run with friendly efficiency by the LAA Breckland Strut.
I see the sun made an appearance after I headed off!

Provided you take the short crossing – Portsmouth/Gosport to Ryde – you should be within gliding distance of the coasts at normal GA altitudes so Life Jackets, in my opinion, are not essential.

I have been regularly flying to both Bembridge and Sandown for over twenty years and each has its merits. I prefer Sandown as it is within easy wandering distance of Shanklin, Lake and Sandown towns and seafront. Plenty to do locally if you are going for the day. I would suggest getting hold of a local street plan to help your navigation once on the ground, although this isn’t critical as the natives are friendly!

Shanklin and Lake stations give you access to all stops as far as Ryde (including the IOW Steam Railway) and there is a comprehensive Island bus service that covers pretty much everywhere.

I made it on the Sunday (having spent Saturday 08:30 – 14:00 cursing the weather back at base…) and thoroughly enjoyed my visit. Shame I didn’t cotton on to the other Forumites lurking on the field – I really must try harder! Thanks to all whose efforts resulted in a pleasant and relaxed event. Plan A for my return journey (Sandown to meet friends) was scuppered by thunderstorms along the Poole/Bournemouth/Southampton section of coast but an inland route straight back to base was blessed with sunshine and excellent visibility, the only showers being localised and well of my track.

Here are a few snaps from my pocket digital: