You'd think for those sort of $$$ they'd stay watertight for a few 1000 hours - but they don't. In the 10000's they have automatic, electric bilge pumps fitted in the two compartments in front of the step.

CC - I agree completely.

Col Pay in Archerfield
 

I had the priviledge to meet and speak to Col over the cockpit of his spitfire, he told me of the time he broke his prop and what he considered ironic was that the only place he could get a replacement was from Germany. He then demonstrated a down wind take off, he will be sadly missed in airshows, what a Pilot and gentleman he was.