DoF,
Yes, I also remeber having to sign for a 3d (old currencey!) coin at Cardington,to buy a cup of tea on the train to Bridgnorth! I did not make the 16 months you quote, it took me about 22 months to OCU but I was quite happy! I am more than aware, however, of many changes in the system, and still have the greatest admiration for the current guys that I am sometimes privledged to meet! It is still (in my humble opinion) the best Air Force going!
Bill