I still have a model of K18 R43 in its livery at the time I flew it. While not the hottest ship in our fleet, it was, IMHO, the most fun to fly. I understand at some time in the intervening years, it unfortunately lost an argument with a hedge.
As for landing in unusual spots at Halton, my cross country check ride involved recovering from unusual attitudes and extreme ridge scratching before finally crossing the canal and spot landing on the volleyball pitch, all with a covered panel. But you tell the young people today ...