Memories...... I learnt to fly on Austers at Southend in 1962
GAJUE (which I did my first solo I beleive this is still airworthy in Yorkshire) GAGTX, GAIZY all J/1 Autocrats. IZY had aerobatic seats fitted to enable us to learn spinning and recovery, but the CFI (Charles Cockburn) happily had us spin all of them. Most of the instructors were part time, and full time flew as captains for Channel Airways (Digby Docherty, Bernie Warman) Other instructors included John Keates and Dick Gliddon(whose son flies for Bristows up North).
I later joined The Rochford Hundred Flying Group owning GANHX a 5D then Autocar GAMFP and finally Terrier GASAK. I recently sold the dismantled GANHR. I also have connexions with Condors GAWEI and GAWSR and flew Miles m14a GAKKR with MPM group at Elstree. It was said at the time that if you could fly an Auster you could fly anything and I must say I agree.
All marvellous aircraft with individual personalities. the present day spam cans just cant compete
Does any of the above stir memories??
