Bedford

It was another split-up day. Nobody wanted to come with me to Shuttleworth to see the collection of vintage aircraft. I have no idea why, as it seemed a no-brainer to me. So the ladies did their own things, with Christine walking around the river to see that and the colleges that make up Cambridge University. Tricia followed on later to locate the cattle on the Midsummer Common. They met up later.

I set off for Shuttleworth in the sunshine and got there with no incident (a 50-minute drive). I got a car park in the small one by the entrance, which was good. Inside, I showed my prepurchased ticket and went in. The doors of the first hangar opened onto a collection of WWI aircraft, some replicas and some original. Most of these were in flying condition but weren’t flying today. When they do at their flying events, the crowds are much larger. I have always had a fascination with this era - maybe it was all those Biggles Books that I read as a child. I recognised most of the aircraft, so my dementia hasn’t yet taken hold. On to the other hangars, which included some pre-WWI aircraft like an original 1909 Bleriot, still with its original engine and still in flying condition (only on fine, still, days). Also, a couple of American racing planes from the 30s and the DH88 Comet that won the MacRobertson Air Race from the United Kingdom to Australia in 1933. Incredible machines, and many others too numerous to mention.

I went through the displays and had a quick, late lunch before driving back. The ladies had luckily beaten me home as they had the keys.

One of my bucket list items is ticked off. Can I do another tomorrow?Read more