GRP- the vis was hazy at 3,000 and overcast on arrival in Alderney. There was a distinct line to cloudless sky just to the west which then moved slowly east. I guess you didn't have such good conditions further east.
No 2 - just filed the flight plan within an hour of leaving and submitted the 'General Aviation Declaration' (customs and excise, prevention of terrorism, immigration acts)- you will need passport numbers to complete the declaration even though they are not required for the Channel Islands, just as well to take them with you though in case you have to land in France.
Wore lifejackets and took my rather heavy sailing liferaft-53lbs. Luckily all within the weight and balance limits for the PA28.
Navigation was VOR from Soton and later to Guernsey, intercept with Berry Head gave us the position for ORTAC. Alderney ADF confirmed it was looking right. Took a handheld GPS as well but for some reason it just kept saying poor GPS coverage!
If you need any other info please email me at pprune.