G SXTY great post. You've got me reminiscing now.
I remember the goose bumps well. I had missed the morning knock on the door for a recorded delivery cos I couldn't be bothered to get out of bed. So eventually I got myself to the post office and was presented with the fattest envelope I've ever seen with a "Jersey European" stamp on the front.
Spent 6 years with Jersey Europen/British European/Flybe and I'll happily admit it was fun. Moved on now though. There are still some routes you just can't do with heavier metal. Steep approaches into LCY in a 146 will remain with me forever.
Enjoy it, you deserve it