Nick Grace and the author wing their way over the Berkshire countryside under a weak winter sun. Inset, the author proves that six foot three into four feet six will not go - not at first, anyway.

Are you all right? Nick Grace, owner and restorer of Spitfire Tr 9 ML407/G-LFIX, reassures the author, wedged into the rear seat of the Spitfire.

Nick Grace and the author taxy out to take off from White Waltham. Leslie & Godwin, the aviation insurance company, has sponsored the Spitfire for the 1987 airshow season.