HIGH winds almost scuppered the first vintage air show held at the restored First World War aerodrome in Stow Maries at the weekend. Around 2000 expectant fans turned up at the air base, located between Cold Norton and South Woodham Ferrers, to see the Great War Display Team. But high winds across Essex meant three of the five planes due to fly had to remain grounded due to safety reasons However, two of the team's replica Junkers CL1 fighter bombers, complete with false rear gunners, did appear; together with other light planes from the past. Team leader Robb Metcalfe said: "It was too gusty for our multiwings to fly, but we hope to have a full complement at Stow Maries' September Fly-in." There was also a collection of restored Army trucks, jeeps and troop carriers, which were located in the aerodrome's restored garages. Members of the Great War Society's re-enactment group, representing the Middlesex Regiment, pitched their tents and gave demonstrations of training and we! apons. The fly-in proved to be a honey pot -- within hours of opening, its car parks were packed and motorists were directed to Maldon to catch the vintage double decker park-and-ride bus. It was the first time most of the 2000-plus visitors had seen the Great War airfield that time forgot. New owners Steve Wilson and Russell Savory, who are also constructing a nature reserve, hope it will realise its potential and become one of the county's major tourist magnets. The business partners, who make ...
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