Fulbeck man’s ‘special’ experience in a Battle of Britain spitfire after winning Daily Express competition
A pensioner was “honoured” to take a flight in a vintage plane after winning a competition, describing it as a “special experience”.
Fulbeck man Michael Parker, 86, was one of two lucky entrants who won the opportunity to take to the skies in a spitfire, flown from the Biggin Hill Heritage Hangar in Kent.
They had entered a competition run by the Daily Express in partnership with flyaspitfire.com, which asked entrants to kindly donate to the RAF Benevolent Fund, the RAF’s leading welfare charity. It raised more than £20,000.
Michael, known as Mick, took the controls of the spitfire to experience a flight of a lifetime in the famous aircraft from the Battle of Britain station.
Mick said: “I have always been impressed by the performance and efficiency of the RAF display teams, especially the Red Arrows, and I am a huge fan of the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight.
“Equally, I have admired the spitfire pilots' great efforts and bravery in the Second World War and have read many books about their exploits.
“To get the opportunity to fly in such an iconic aircraft was a dream come true.”
Mick, who fought in the 1950s Malayan Emergency in the Army, has always been fascinated by military aircraft. He remembers both German and British planes, including Lancasters, flying overhead his then home in Lincoln during the Second World War, being guided by the red light at the top of Lincoln Cathedral.
He said: “Climbing into the plane, I felt humbled by all those brave, young pilots who had done the very same under such different circumstances to defend our country, at which they succeeded.
“I felt privileged to be flying in the spitfire from the Biggin Hill air base, which was such an important site during the Battle of Britain – it made the experience even more special.
“My pilot, Steve, was patient and boosted my confidence. He made sure I was happy and understood everything following the briefing. Steve effortlessly flew us over the Kent Weald, Brands Hatch, and the Thames. I thoroughly recommend the experience!
“After the flight, we had a guided tour of the hangars, with the knowledgeable Simon as our personal guide. That was a real eye-opener.
“I was provided with in-flight videos, badges, stickers, a book, and a large flight certificate confirming my flight in the spitfire MT818, which is signed by Steve and myself.”
Mick explained why he was proud to support the RAF Benevolent Fund, saying he has “long admired its many good works”.
He added: “Especially its input in the Bomber Command Memorial in London, but also its support for serving individuals, veterans, and young people.
“Finally, I wish to sincerely thank the RAF Benevolent Fund for its contribution to my flight in the spitfire and I'm pleased that the competition attracted attention and brought necessary funds to the organisation.”
