The Chipmunk has to take a large chunk of the blame for me wanting to spend all my cash on flying. An air experience flight at Cambridge, with some gentle aeros thrown in for good measure, sowed the seeds that are only now coming into fruition.

If any kind-hearted soul with a Chippy would like to give this student ppl a spin one day, they would earn my lifelong gratitude! And maybe even beer...:)

Seems to me that De Havilland's finest (the Mossie notwithstanding!) is responsible for quite a few of us having developed an incurable love of flying. So far that's me and ratsaarse who've admitted that our first ever flights were in AEF Chippies - just out of interest, any others out there who share the distinction...?

Me sir!!! ;)

Lost count of how many AEF Chippy flights I had - was an Air Cadet for 7 years, so was at the front of the queue whenever flying got mentioned! Also flew in the Husky at Cambridge - not a patch on the Chippy! Then as ATC staff, waited years to get my first Bulldog flight and it was a goody! Still waiting for a Tutor flight - I'll get there one day!

First 3 odd hours of my PPL were in a Chippy as well - prolly about an hour of that was trying to get the hang of taxying the beast! ;)

My first flight was in a Chippy but not an AEF - just a joyride with my wifes cousin who has a share in one.

If you we're in Royston on Saturday evening, t'was me overhead having another go and getting in a few aeros. They weren't very good but said wife still had to slap me to remove the inane grin.

Lovely aircraft, gorgeous engine sound and an honour to fly.

First flight in an Avro Anson (shows my age!!), second in Chipmunk. Aerobatics on my birthday - an experience never to be forgotton.

I now fly a Pup.