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One of my build themes is R&D and prototype aircraft. For this GB I will be modelling the first Vulcan prototype, VX770. This aircraft is, in my opinion, the best looking of the Vulcans, with its near pure delta shape and glossy white finish. Pics from t'internet: The first of two Avro 698 prototypes, VX770 made its first flight with Roly Falk at the controls on 30 August 1952 and the aircraft appeared at Farnborough just a few days later! It was joined by the second prototype, VX777, from September 1953, and the pair, along with the four extant Avro 707 research aircraft, made what must have been an awe inspiring appearance together at Farnborough just a few days after VX777 flew. Tragedy struck VX770 on 20 September 1958 at the Syerston air display when she broke apart in mid air, killing the crew. VX777 survived until 1963 when it became surplus to requirements and was scrapped. Probably unsurprisingly I'll be using the 1/72 Airfix kit as the basis for the model. This has been available in various incarnations, although I expect all have the same plastic content. Box contents: I'll also be using some of the Flightpath B1/B1A conversion set, in particular the smaller tailcone that was later greatly enlarged to house ECM equipment for the B1A and B2 versions. New undercarriage legs are also provided, which I'll either install or use as a pattern to modify the kit parts. (I plan to model a B1A at some point with the remainder of the conversion kit.) I also have the Mastercaster wheel set. Flightpath parts, with Mastercaster wheels to the right: I have numerous references on the Vulcan, so I feel I have a pretty good handle on what changes I need to make to depict the prototype (although if I have missed any please feel free to point them out, unless I've missed the chance to include them in which case ignorance is bliss!). One piece of info that I am lacking a definitive answer on is how much the nose was shorter by. On all Vulcans after VX770 the nose was extended aft of the cockpit to avoid the need for a telescoping leg to reduce during retraction into the bay. Despite all those references, most only mention the fact the nose was entended, but not by how much. Of those that do, one states 6" (plans in the latest issue of Model Aircraft) while another states 16". Please can anyone suggest which (if either!) is correct please? I'll be building the kit with the crew entry door shut so interior work will be the bare minimum given the small windows. I'll be spending enough time on the exterior! Looking forward to starting! Mike