Abingdon - Dalton Barracks - 04/05/2008

As has now become the traditional 'season opener' for many, Abingdon Air and Country Show once again took place on the first Sunday in May. Unfortunately, once again the forecast was far from ideal and consequently many of the anticipated general aviation movements took place.

The hard-working organisers could be forgiven for wondering what exactly they've done to upset the weather God's so much. This was the third consecutive year where the weather proved to be less than ideal.

Despite that it didn't stop those who turned out from having a highly enjoyable day out. Abingdon really does live up to its name and caters for not only the aviation enthusiasts, but also tries to offer something for everyone, be that tank rides, the lines of classic cars, the opportunity to try abseiling or to get close to the animals from the travelling farm.

With the Air Atlantique DC-6 being forced to cancel during the run up to the show the "star item" award simply had to go to the SHAPE UH-60 Blackhawk from Chievres in Belgium. The crew opened up their cab to anyone wanting to take a look and provided a real highlight to many. Whilst they are to be commended for this, it did make unobstructed photography of the aircraft impossible.

Other military aircraft present included a Royal Navy Lynx, the 2008 208[R] Sqn display Hawk, a pair of 1 FTS Tucanos, again, including the 2008 special, and finally the 28(AC) Sqn Merlin HC3.

The flying display was kicked into action by Peter Teichmann in his immaculate P-40M Warhawk.

Next up was the beautiful lesser spotted Percival Pembroke, whose display consisted of a series of low, sweeping passes showing off the lovely curves of the aircraft to perfection. A wonderful routine, IMHO.

Sadly by now the weather had deteriorated and at times some fairly heavy rain was falling from the sky, making photography pretty difficult, which was a shame as it coincided with some rather nice aircraft and equally entertaining displays.

Rob Davies and "Big Beautiful Doll" were unpeturbed by the inclement conditions and put on a typically polished display.

Without doubt the most spirited display award had to go to the Air Atlantique Dakota, filling in for the poorly DC-6. Never before have the crowds seen a Dak thrown around the sky in quite the manner they witnessed here.

An airshow debut for many came from the Silence Twister. From below anyone would could be forgiven for thinking that it was a Spitfire. An uncanny resemblance.

As always the Swift Aerobatic Display Team put on a great show with their paired glider routine.

An Abingdon show wouldn't be the same without a Delta Jets Hunter display, and this year was no different; Andy Gent was responsible for putting her through her paces, and bringing the curtain down on the show.

With the displays complete, the vast majority of participating aircraft began to make their way home.

The Delta participation in the event did not stop with the Hunter, however. Also present was the blue Hunter T7, the 'Yellow Jacks' Gnat, as well as the Jet Provost. All aircraft arrived and departed on the day, providing a few additional spectacles for the paying public.

My sincere thanks go to all at Abingdon Air and Country Show for taking the time and putting in the effort to make the show happen. Hopefully they'll get the weather they deserve for the 2009 event!