“Best of British”, no more apt and finer name could have been chosen for the season premier airshow at The Shuttleworth Collection. Rather modestly Shuttleworth choose the title to represent the theme of the event, with some of the very best of British aviation from the early 1900s onwards, but, in my opinion, it is also a very apt title for the truly splendid events put on at this wonderful airfield for so many years.
Those of you familiar with the Collection and its events will know just what I refer to and may want to skip straight down to my snaps, and those of my friend Tony, below; for those who have not visited please allow me a moment to expend. The Shuttleworth Collection and its Biggleswade Aerodrome is rather like stepping back in time, no modern tower blocks are visible, just beautiful Bedfordshire countryside. The hangars and other airfield buildings might have come straight out of a period drama or movie, such as Flambards (1979 TV drama), Downton Abbey or Those Magnificent Men in Their Flying Machines (1965 movie) and indeed some of the remarkable replica aircraft from that production have now found a home in the collection. Whether it be early in the morning or late in the afternoon, when the aircraft are being returned to the hangars, the atmosphere at Shuttleworth cannot be bettered.
On event days a relevant collection of stalls selling al manner of souvenirs are present, food vendors are also plentiful and varied supported by the Collections own café. Picnics are also very welcome and many people select their spot, put down a blanket and chairs and relax to watch the show.
Views of the aircraft, both parked and flying, is perhaps paramount at a flying display and it is here the Shuttleworth absolutely excels. Gone is the need to strain eyes to watch an aerobating aircraft in the far distant, as at some airshows, instead the layout of the airfield and the skill of the pilots combine to make the show very intimate wherever one is on the airfield. This is the show that manages to satisfy both the casual visitor, the family and the enthusiast in equal measure.
The Aircraft Gallery
It’s some while since I have attended an airshow and so I admit that my photographic skills are a little rusty, in addition this was my first outing with my new 100-400mm Canon zoom lens.; regardless the weather conditions were kind with bright sunshine which by 2pm, when the flying display started proper, was shining over my should and very usefully lighting up the aircraft.
Undoubtedly my favourite aircraft was the Bristol Blenheim Mk IF, this being the first time I have seen the aircraft flying. Close behind in terms of favourite aeroplanes, was the Hawker Fury I, Fairey Swordfish and SE5a.
The Vehicle Gallery
As is customary at Shuttleworth, a parade of classic vehicles, both local and visiting, took place starting about 12:30 pm. I’m not too knowledgeable about cars, but I could not help but be very impressed by the 4.5 Ltr Racing Bentley, the bright orange Bond Bug and the Ford Capri; the latter reminding me of my old friend Dave, now sadly departed, who used to own one and delighted in scaring the wits out of me in it!
Programme
A full colour show guide was on offer for £5, providing details of all the aircraft taking part in the show and including a schedule and site map.
And Finally…
Shuttleworth is not just about aircraft, it is home to an excellent collection of vehicles as well, ranging from civilian cars, commercial and military vehicles. The commercial vehicles include a number of buses, some of which are used during events to transport visitors around the site. Seen below is the 921 Leyland G7 Dodson Charabus, the starting of which requires a handle, a good deal of puff and more than a little technique! As may be seen the human ‘starter motor’ was in the end successful and celebrated in style, much to the amusement of the audience.
Sadly the wind was a little too strong for the Edwardians to fly and so we left the show at 5:30pm, as impressed as ever, and planning to visit again soon. Well done Shuttleworth!
Trains, Tanks & Planes 