Centaurus.

Yes i must admit to often wondering what exactly the problem is with the Centaurus. Is it a design flaw, or maybe down to quality of metal components.?:confused:
With the cost of restoration and subsequent high value of airworthy examples, it seems strange to go to so much trouble getting one into the air, powered by an engine that seemingly could ‘let go’ at any moment..!
Both RNHF examples are currently u/s, and both there previous two seater and SF’s G-FURY were i think lost because of the engine.. and possibly other examples as well ‘over the water’.

Just one question though. Is the Sea Furys seat ajustable or something? Because in that photo of OHB’s example taxing it doesnt look like he could close the canopy. Or was OHB just very tall?

Yes.. i think its adjustable to help with taxiing as i remember seeing Mark Hanna in the OFMC’s Baghdad Fury with himself in a similar position ‘perched on high’.

David, some fantastic shots and wonderful to see thank you.
The third pic down was shot from Grange Road on the southern side looking due north, the M11 as it is today being off to the right at the eastern end of the airfield. The road is a good place for viewing the airfield as there is a superb panoramic view to be had. The pill box has gone, but the fighter dispersal pen behind it is mainly still there and used for storing sugarbeat. The church steeple in the distance is i think Thriplow church. Thriplow being the village that separates Duxford and Fowlmere.
Any other pics posted of Duxford airfield around that time would be very much appreciated.!

Sorry for hijacking your thread Mark, but as we are talking V bomber research aircraft i thought i would add a pic of the Handley Page HP88.. i think used to test the Victors crescent shaped wing configuaration. It was lost in a fatal crash at Stansted.

RN Phantoms.

😉

Very interesting pics Ollie.. especially the last one of the Vampire/Venom on the flightdeck lift. That looks to be an extremely snug fit..!