16/05/2015 Alfa Romeo Owners Club

Even though we have a lot of engineering work ongoing at present, we still found time to welcome a group of Alfa Romeo enthusiasts. As this was a small group of just 12 visitors we allowed a 'walk-in' visitor to join the group.

Then it was time for a quick group photo followed by the Systems Demonstration. With the bomb doors now open, Charles told them something of the history of XM655, and of the Vulcan in general.

Time for the group photo, before the Systems Demonstration
Copyright © Edward Banks

Charles gives the visitors a Vulcan history lesson.
Copyright © Isi Jackson

Crew for the Systems demo was Isi(AEO), Len(P1) and Roger(Crew Chief). The visitors were also treated to the sound of the Rover Airborne Auxiliary Power Pack (AAPP) running.
As part of the pre-Wings and Wheels maintenance, the cockpit canopy has been released and raised by some 10cm to facilitate some corrosion treatment. This made for some interesting and unusual photographs from inside the cockpit.

View from between the ejection seats while Len does the pre-200 Volt checks.
Copyright © Isi Jackson

The view looking from the P1 seat (left) and backwards (right).
Copyright © Len Hewitt

Looking out from the P1's side window was something of a surprise for Len, finding Nick and Phil looking back at him!

Phil and Nick await the cockpit to clear before continuing work from off the giraffe.
Copyright © Len Hewitt

The remainder of the visit followed its established pattern with John doing the cockpit tours, Damaris the Black Buck Falklands missions and Len the Cold War and the Vulcan in service.

With a quiet flying day, the visitors were able to bring their vehicles onto the airfield for a shot if them by the Vulcan.

A variety of Alfa Romeos along with a small but powerful Fiat Arbarth.
Copyright © Isi Jackson