Aviation Poacher to Gamekeeper and Back Again

About the Book

This memoir captures the "golden era" of post-WWII British General Aviation—a time of lighter regulation and accessible flight. It is a deeply personal story of a young man’s struggle to overcome a disability to claim his place in the cockpit. Spanning over 70 years, the narrative dives into the thrilling, often perilous world of air displays. With wit and honesty, Barry recounts the accidents and "near-misses" that tested his nine lives, proving that luck is often more valuable than gold. Beyond the hangar, he shares the journey of his 60-year marriage and his pride in his children, Helen and John, who continue the family’s aviation legacy.

About the Author

Barry’s aviation career began in 1954 with the Air Training Corps. By 1973, he made history as the youngest and first non-service pilot appointed to the Flying Instructor Examining Panel. As a Chief Flying Instructor (CFI) between 1960 and 1984, Barry managed aero clubs in Little Snoring, Peterborough, and Leicester, mentoring hundreds of pilots. His diverse logbook spans every corner of the sky: • Display Flying: Co-founder of the Barnstormers Flying Circus (1963) with over 2,200 air show slots and a season with the Rothmans Aerobatic Team. • Commercial Pilot: Years spent flying air taxis and twins across the UK and Europe. • Multi-Disciplinary: Achieved a Gliding Silver ‘C’ (Gold height), and both private and commercial ballooning licenses. From 1984 to 1998, Barry served the UK Civil Aviation Authority, regulating private aviation and civil air displays. Now 88, he remains a devoted enthusiast.