Beard

I beleive that my late father served on Hecla toward the end of his service so it's nice to see such a splendid model.

That's splendid. My late father served on her sister ship, HMS Jaguar, and watching you build has given me the urge to build her.

I'm glad to see my surplus stickers being put to good use and it looks like the Microsol is working.

I'm pretty sure that a UK-based Vb would've had a VHF radio installed so don't think you'll need the wire from the mast to the tailplane. It still would have the IFF wires mind. http://spitfiresite.com/2010/04/spitfire-masts-and-aerials.html

Lovely work on all four and thanks for reminding me that I really ought to get cracking on mine.

I'm pretty sure Matchbox didn't do a Cromwell, they did do a Comet which Revell have re-released. Revell themselves did a Cromwell, which I understand, is pretty good.

That's because the Revell is a MkV and didn't have them. The MkVI's engine had a bigger radiator so the carburetor intakes had to move to the wing roots (the ones immediately adjacent to the fuselage), the larger intake on the starboard wing is (I think) an air intake.

Correct. They all have their faults, I can't remember them all but the Hasegawa (the youngest one) has issues with the fabric fuselage, the Airfix (which is over 40) has a too narrow nose and is lacking in detail, and the Revell is nearly 60 years old and, IIRC, has heavily riveted wings. I'm sure some-one more knowlegable (paging @Troy Smith) will be able to correct me.

Off the top of my head, before the Arma Hobby came along the choices were Revell, Airfix, or Hasegawa.

A hundred and one P-40s, blimey.

A Friday afternoon or Monday morning job, as my Grandad used to say (although he was referring to 1970s BMC cars). Good to hear they've sent you a gift, that's something.

It is and I cannot, for the life of me, understand how your one was released into the wild.

I think this will answer your questions. http://spitfiresite.com/2010/04/the-sutton-harness-on-the-spitfire.html

After seeing your experience, I did. *hurries off to check again*

They're looking most excellent. I've managed to get hold of a XVI and am looking forward to starting it (once I've finished the Spitfire 22, Tempest V, Fulmar, Meteor, Beaufort and Canberra that are currently cluttering up my dinning table). I won't make as good a job of it as you have mind.