The pilot was flying the display using QFE (atmospheric pressure at ground level) or so he thought - but was actually given QNH (pressure at sea level) by ATC - a difference in the order of 200 feet, hence the closeness to the ground. Apparently, he was intending to eject but was unable initially as the stick was being pulled too far back. Once again, no one person entirely to blame - a combination of errors not picked up.
I started this thread after coming home with a lump in my throat. There has been some useful comment on the forum, but now that it is ‘off and running’ and with quotes like that above perhaps it has run its course.
Although I have never done a display, I am interested as the next man as to what went wrong – we all want to learn. However, I am prepared to wait; I suggest others consider doing the same.