Despite the rotten weather forecast I took a chance & went to Old Warden for the Spring Air Display. Heavy rain was predicted but fortunately it missed us completely. They even flew some of the 'Edwardian Flying Machines'. I took lots of shots & haven't had time to go through them all yet. Here's a small selection to give you some idea of what it was like. A great day was had by all.

Now those are Aeroplanes Doug

Looking forward to the whole collection!

Doug are they one of a kind that are flying or are there some in a museum or flying somewhere else in Europe?

Thanks for posting them.

Cheers...Happy Landings...Doug

Glad you like them. These aircraft are part of the Shuttleworth Collection that is based at Old Warden.
http://www.shuttleworth.org/shuttleworth/index.htm
The collection was started by Richard Shuttleworth before WWII. He joined the RAF on the outbreak of war & was sadly killed in a flying accident in August 1940. His mother formed the Shuttleworth Trust to run the estate in his memory. The Trust carries on as he started by collecting, restoring & displaying rare vintage aircraft & motor vehicles. These are usually kept at Old Warden where they are displayed at the various events held during the season although some have been used for film work. It's well worth a visit if you're ever in the UK.

The aircraft in my photos are

1. Blackburn Type D Monoplane. Built in 1912 this is the oldest airworthy genuine British flying machine in the world. It has no ailerons & still uses the original wing-warping principle. We were fortunate to see it display in the air yesterday as I was told it usually only does short ground hops.

2 & 3. The Bristol Boxkite replica. One of 3 examples built by Miles Aircraft for the film "Magnificent Men". This was originally assembled & test flown at Shoreham Airport.

4. Avro Triplane replica. Built by the Hampshire Aero Club for the same film.

5. A rare sight. The Avro & Blackburn flying together. This is a very skilled piece of flying, particularly with the Blackburn. They actually flew closer together but I was unable to get a shot.

Unfortunately many of the older aircraft are not flown unless conditions are perfect. I reckon I was very fortunate to see these in the air. It makes me want to go back for more so I shall return.

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I feel it might be time to make a pilgramage, its been over a decade since I was last there. Those are amazing things Doug

Cheers
Mark