The Mark II Choppers of 1664 Squadron are carefully attended to at Beermountain base camp by Flt Sgt Baldrick. Note the Chipper, which is the squadron training machine for new pilots who have less than 30 hours flight experience in the Mark II. As Squadron Commander Lord Flash Heart (from Blackadder) would remind us - "treat your chopper like a good woman - take to heaven and back at least four times a day".

The ACO provided close security for us during the race. However, I don't even think the average "pikey" knows the value of a restored Mark II...unless they have EBay in the back of their white transit vans?

Filming was performed on the back of a period Matchless, piloted by Pat.

Captain Trousers filmed on the back of the beast - thank heavens for image stabilisation and effective hemoroid cream!

Here you can see Sdn Ldr Toad's machine prepared for combat. Helmet ready, if the call comes in to scramble, Baldrick sounds the alarm and Toad can be airbourne in less than a minute!

This late 1980 Mark II is specially equipped with military grade smoke!

Which lasts quite a long time! Seen here, Flt Lt Davros familiarises himself with the controls of Blue Six, one of the later display machines in the squadron. Note the additional horn fitted, as this machine is one of the 2005 scynchro pair, and we have to let the crowds know we are coming through!

On the main roads the team used arrow formation when they could fly at the speed of the local traffic!

Seen here in the village, a perfect arrow - note Flt Sgt Baldrick in the rear position, ready to deploy smoke whilst Sdn Leader Swiss and Flt Lt Buzz manage the "wings"

A great shot by Lt Foo of the squadron ambling to the Classic race pits

Once in the main pits we seemed to be the centre of attention. Race, what race?

The Aston Martin pit wall seemed to be an obvious home for us!

Captain Trousers busy directing the squadron after a quick glass of champagne. "If you could just land about here please Mr T"

Signing off for 2005, the squadron share tales of great bravery and excitement with the drivers of the amazing machines in the Classic race!