For a dozen RAF flying instructors, it was the opportunity of a lifetime: to be seconded during the summer of 1968 to the Battle of Britain film unit, flying the then-huge assembly of Spitfires brought together for the movie. John Preece was among them — and took full advantage of the chance to sample the other aircraft types involved, too


“In those days you got a certain amount of kudos for being an RAF pilot, but being a Battle of Britain film pilot, everyone wanted to talk to you. We got a bit precious, probably…”