brakedwell - had a similar experience at Sharjah in the mid 50s - was stuck there for 10 days while 'Charlie' and the steam roller and oil cart made good on the sand strip. Passed the time learning about 1000 lb bomb storage and desert vehicle recovery with a 6x6 Scamell, thanks to 'Bomber' Wigley and 'Shani'.Wallis. Also became a fan of Mc Conochies's (???) tinned Ready Meal'