Second World War RAF pilot takes to the air again in a Spitfire at the age of 102
A 102-year-old Royal Air Force veteran has taken to the skies in a World War Two-era Supermarine Spitfire to raise money for charity.
Jack Hemmings, a former RAF squadron leader and grandfather-of-three, took the flight in the warbird to raise money for the Mission Aviation Fellowship (MAF) charity, which he co-founded.
It was the first time he had flown in a Spitfire, and he described the experience as "absolutely delightful".
He is also believed to be the oldest Briton to have flown the Second World War fighter.
He said: "It's a nice feeling swooping around in the air which you can do in this.
"To be honest [it was] slightly heavier than I expected, but we were flying about 210 knots faster than I normally used to fly at in my Air Force days.
"To be honest it felt a bit rusty. Not surprising - I am rusty."
His flight took place at Biggin Hill, and he was accompanied by deputy chief pilot Barry Hughes.
Mr Hughes said: "With Jack's history of aviation he's a remarkable gentleman and it's an honour to be able to fly [with him].
"When Jack took the controls, he needed very little instruction."
Mr Hemmings was awarded the Air Force Cross for exemplary gallantry during his service in India.
Serving with 353 Squadron, he flew the Lockheed Hudson in the maritime patrol role to protect the Bay of Bengal from Japanese invasion.
He has already raised more than £40,000 for the MAF charity and has set up a Justgiving page with the aim of raising at least £2,000 from the Spitfire flight.
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