On one occasion the afternoon before take off back to U.K it was discovered that one Aircraft had a Wireless fault, and we were not allowed through Paris Airspace without the relevant operational equipment. As a Radar fitter I had limited knowlege of this particular equipment. However a Wireless fitter recently posted to Idris offered his assistance and worked most of the night to get the Aircraft serviceable for morning take off. During our chat he informed me that his wife who lived in Southsea, (just down the road from Thorney Island) was joining him in a few days time, but his "boxes" had to go by Sea and would take weeks. After having a Chat with the Flight Commander it was agreed that if his boxes could be taken to the camp the next day ,they would be put on an Aircraft going back to RAF Idris for a further period of Night Flying. Needless to say he was extremely chuffed with the idea.

We arrived back to Thorney about 1500hrs.and after completing unloading Radio Stores etc, I went to visit his wife in Southsea. On,knocking the door,a voice asked who I was and what I wanted. Withoput thought I said I had been speaking with her husband that morning. She said that was impossible as he was stationed overseas,it was then that I realised how incongruous the situation was , I had not even thought about the fact I had just flown from North Africa . After a full explanation she opened the door and arrangements were made for the "boxes " to be taken to camp. I am happy to say they arrived safely the next day, and on my following visit to RAF Idris I was treated to a magnificent meal at their home. Regrettably I cannot remember their names, but hope they are still enjoying life together.