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Above: G-BASH and G-AXBH ready for departure Only 7 Bashers could make it this year, and to reduce the requirement to only 2 aircraft Ian Todd graciously dropped out too. We started with the usual fuelling and flight plans at Popham and soon headed for Dieppe. Gerard Stephan would not be at the airfield so we could land for free, even better! The 2 aircraft departed but Chris and Gwyn held their breath as a fully loaded G-AXBH struggled into the air from a downhill run along zero three with almost no wind. With fine weather across the channel the trip was uneventful and pleasant.
Above left: Steve Roberts formates with G-AXBH, Right: the Gypsy encampment on approach to Dieppe. On arrival the Bashers spotted what appeared to be a caravan rally. Next Day Gerard rang the Bashers and apologized for spoiling the day, apparently they were Gypsies who had broken the fences and camped on the airfield only the previous evening. After a group photo John Wrayton suggested a trip on to Dieppe and Lunch in Honfleur, and the Bashers agreed.
Above: Team Photo at Dieppe taken with Auto Timers, cameras were stood on the memorial to the free French Pilots who died in the Dieppe Raid in 1942. Left to Right: John Wrayton, Chris Sellen, Dave Leddy, Dave Esp, Steve Roberts, Gwyn Jenkins and Dave Skertchly. G-BASH and G-AXBH got thoroughly mixed up with ATC by reporting at the wrong bridges and generally confusing the French. On arrival at Dieppe 2 taxis were obtained and the Bashers headed for lunch. Hornfleur is famous in England as the place where Henry 5th rallied his troops before the Battle of Agincourt, you know ".....for England, Harry and St George!" The Bashers were surprised that the French had not erected a memorial to the occasion. A restaurant was found and a pleasant lunch had by all while overlooking the harbor.
Above: Lunch in Honfleur After all the excitement the Bashers headed home. As the Bashers approached Goodwood someone was heard mimicking a German who was getting shirty with london Information. "Hoff Cors I vill descend to two souzand feet to reamain clear hoff controlled hairspace". Back at Popham Chris Sellen did the sums and e-mailed the bill. Thanks Chris. |
