Former Anson/ Oxford pilot Malcolm Payne occasionally posts on the forum.

Sadly Skyfame PRO Robert Rudhall died in December 2003.

Septic.

Very sad news indeed, One of lifes genuine good guys, I will always consider it a great priveledge to have worked with Paul on Warbirds Worldwide.

RIP Paul.

Gary Brown.

The IWM don’t have to fly or taxy a/c to produce a living museum, it’s already being done for them by OFMC, TFC, Caroline Grace et al.
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Duxford would be far weaker as an attraction for both the public and enthusiast alike without these groups/individuals, but whats stopping the IWM from making more of its own exhibits. Four engines turning on the HP Hastings , or a ground run from the Oxford would be good places to start , both would become unique features to Duxford without the sole survivor tag. After all once the Airspeed Oxford is suspended in the new Air Space building its roll as an educational research subject is going to be somewhat negated.

Septic.

The point I would like to make regarding the IWM’s policy on its aircraft exhibits is:

Should the museum solely rely on its private Vintage/Warbird operators to keep the site active. I personally don’t think it should, the IWM should occasionally show case its own exhibits, whether it be in the form of a photoday /roll out or an engine run. One day Duxford may not be home to the vast numbers warbirds that currently reside within its historic boundary fence, measures should be made within its own collection to ensure that the public and enthusiasts alike will want to return throughout the course of a year.

I have attached an image of the former St Athan RAFM Me410 to show what can be done when it comes to keeping exhibits alive. (Photo 1988)

Septic.