Have been obsessed with helicopters all my life , programs like Skippy and The Whirlybirds stirring my original interest .Started using parts from model planes to cobble together semi successful flyings model helicopters at about age 12. Went on to afford proper Rc helicopters , great fun. About 1996 after saving for a couple of years working overtime etc went to Sloanes and got my ppl h in about six months thanks CH staying at The Aviator what bliss ( I had to commute from Scotland ).
About four years ago after a bit of a struggle ie lots of extra tests and money for same I got my class 1 medical and started a correspondence course with Bristol but with the pressure of running my own buisness It was slow slow progress, then came along the kids which are great along with supportive wife but no nearer CPL H .Having fun in the meantime though lots of flying experience approx 500 hr mark inc turbine time.
Then June 2008 got medical suspended with I have to say a surprisingly compassionate letter from CAA. Lots more tests and money and at least initially the specialist assured me I wasn't going to drop dead but still no medical.
The week before Christmas my wife asked what I would like for Christmas and I replied my medical.That night at our staff night out got a call from the specialist said CAA had advised him they would be prepared to allow class 2 medical with annual test. Happy Christmas to me ! .
Got class 2 renewed that week and on 23/12/08 got renewed licence so back beloved flying again .
NO chance of ever getting a class 1 so no CPL but ho hum I can still fly .
Story so far
R.