I've never posted here-I tend to lurk and enjoy reading everyones' stories.But that photograph broke my heart.I went on a cadet camp at Binbrook in 1984.The week before the Lightning's 30th anniversary celebrations.Preparations were in hand for an airshow at the weekend.I was flown by a Lightning pilot in a Chipmunk on an AEF flight.As we came in to land we flew over the Lightning prototype brought in as a static display.I can still hear the pilot saying 'ugly bugger when she started wasn't she ? '.

The aircraft were looking long in the tooth by then-rust streaks,frayed straps,and instrument panels down to almost bare metal.But to a 14 year old like I was they were the absolute dogs ! I often wondered what became of these bases when they closed-sadly now I know.Thanks for the photo.

It's sad alright, but it still brings back great memories being up there.

I grew up near the airfield and it all comes flooding back when I'm walking around the place, even though it's a ghost of its former self. Some things have remained completely unchanged, while other features have decayed or disappeared altogether.

(For those folks that asked for a hi res version, scroll to my post at the bottom of page 4 of this thread for the link.)

Ah, I see, so is the Lightning at Binbrook the one that is owned by the Lightning Association?

Indeedy.

Fancy having it on your wall?

Or even on a greetings card.

So Harrogate

How much do i get for the title, albeit i am flattered:)

From post 7, username still banned (don't ask why, i don't know)
Tigs2

Just trying to raise some money in my best mate's memory. He died of cancer.

As mentioned throughout the thread, all proceeds from the sale go here:

Justgiving - Claire & Dave's Fundraising Page

And it's not photoshopped. It's been through Photomatix.

But yes, anyone can just print it off if they wish.

If you've got a problem with this harmless little plug AIDU, send me a PM and we'll talk about it. I can't really see how it affects your day though, but I appreciate you have trouble keeping your inept gob shut.

Go back to your porn.

C*nt.

PS - thanks to the person who bought a poster of this today.

Thanks to everyone who's donated.

It all adds up and it's appreciated.

Is there anyone else out there who remembers ( like me ) the " Javelin " days at Binbrook ? Early / mid sixties . :cool:

My Binbrook memory is of a luscious Welsh lass whom I got to know. Wish I could remember her name. 69 I think it was. 1969, Lord you have a filthy mind!

Harrogate

Can you pm me the code for where the pic is hosted (is it photobucket or something similar). I will stick it up on E-Goat, if you haven't done already. It may generate some other funds for you, if not, some jolly nice comments.

H

Fantastic picture. Brought back memories of my 7 years on 11 Sqn (79 - 86), my first and best tour. Never forget running Lightning's on 'Open Chocks' in max re-heat; all the memorable characters and incidents! They were truly 'happy days'.

Thanks again,

Lightning Lad

11 Sqn, Sticky Bostock then Jake Jarron...my first tour on B Flt under Tex Jones..."listen boy..." Halcion days.

B Flight under Tex Jones!! Now that stretches the imagination!! He is back from NZ for 92 Sqn Reunion in Sept!