I met him back in 2008 I think it was at the Science Museum in London where he was attending the drinks reception for the unveiling of the Spitfire display. I didn’t get a chance to speak to him during the evening but met him as we waited to get our coats. We talked briefly about his wartime experiences and in particular how he had to exit his Spitfire over water, he said at the time he was more worried about drowning than having been shot! A remarkable man who even then in his nineties had crossed London on the tube, on his own, to get to the event. It was a chilly evening and as he walked away I remember feeling that we would never see the likes of him again, a true gentleman.

Lancaster PB474 582 Sqn

If anyone is interested I have two A4 sheets that were left on the floor when the small museum at Booker closed it’s doors a few years ago now. They detail the operations, crew, reason for crash and location together with a picture of the crew together and a funeral. I can scan these and email if anyone is interested or you are more than welcome to the original copies as I do not need them.

Thanks QLD, remember me if you ever do win the lottery. I have enjoyed collecting Spit items and have met some great people in the process. The good thing is I can still marvel at what other people have achieved, can still pop up to Duxford and real Spits flying AND save a lot of money in the process!!

Gavin, I’m letting my Spit project go if you are interested. I have a full set of NS4 Grade frames, original radio, spade grip, seat, control column, instrument panel with fittings, undercarriage with wheels etc. etc. Let me know if you might be interested. I might consider a part exchange of your girlfriend if it helps 🙂

I’ll take a look this weekend Tony, I know I have some relic engine bearer parts that I no longer need. Finished that Firewall yet?

Perfect to take your mind off of a boring subject like Geography I would have thought. I’m sure it won’t be colder or leak any more than my old classroom. Lucky it’s not ex RyanAir as the kids would have to pay to use the loo.:)

So, a big thumbs down then…

Just a thought but you could always spend the wedding money on a Spitfire and get a plastic mould made of your girlfriend?