SR 53
According to Derek Collier-Web's book of all UK flight test accidents 1940-1971 (Derek worked for D Flying and had complete access to all related paper work) the pilot chopped the rocket and the jet most likely because the instrument panel came into his lap on acceleration. (we had a similar event with a Dunsfold aircraft which aborted safely).
Facts aside I was told that as he went off the end Sqn Ldr Booth transmitted "Panic stations chaps" but made no other transmission. If correct some of the better last words.
Last edited by John Farley; 7th September 2011 at 20:11.