The most daring event of my life - Patricia Foster

Some years ago my neighbour bought a microlight and he had the necessary lessons to be able to pass the test and get a licence. He went on many flights around England. I always said that I would never go up in a microlight! In the summer of 1996 my neighbour called across to me to say he was going flying and asked me if I would like to go. To my utter amazement I replied "yes". I had to put warm clothes on because it would be cold up in the sky. I took my camera with me. I was given many opportunities to back out and remain on the ground. The microlight was stored at Hunsden in a large hanger. But when I saw it, it was in pieces! It had to be put together and it was checked and then checked again by someone else. We got into our seats and I had to sit at the back. The microlight was an Alpha 582 and the registered number was GMYMK.

We took off at 19:10pm and flew over St Albans, Moor Park, Rickmansworth and Croxley Green. I had my camera strap wound firmly round my wrist and had to hold it out with 1500ft beneath and scary is putting it mildly.The views were fantastic as it was a beautiful summers evening.I was asked to keep my eyes open for other small aircraft as they could be at a similar height as us.

We arrived back at Hunsden at 20:35pm. Undoubtedly this was the most daring thing I have ever done but was so pleased I had accepted the invitation. It was a fantastic adventure that I will never forget. I hope you enjoy looking at the photographs I took during the flight in the summer of 1996

Patricia Foster