The last BA Standard VC10 Victor Mike was flown into Cosford by Bill Outram in '79.
I remember him around that time frequently reminding us all of his earnest desire to collect his substantial and imminent pension! I doubt that any corners were cut going into Cosford. It wasn't his style. Also, after the infamous White Waltham fly-by a year or two earlier there was a little more caution among the remaining trainers on the fleet.
In addition wasn't this the one that lost an engine on the way and ended up landing on three? Bill must have felt he had something in hand to have committed to that.
Would be interesting to know what has changed.