In Richard Grace's hangar/workshop approaching the end of a very long and protracted restoration which had seen it pass through many owners and many different workshops.

PP972 restored in the wartime markings of No. 809 Sqdn, FAA, a unit with which it served at Trincomalee, Ceylon, in 1945. These marks were carried on the port side only. Photo from Jean Frelaut.

PP972 restored in the markings of No. 767 Sqdn, FAA, the "MV" code is Milltown where the aircraft was based in 1946. These markings were carried on the starboard side. Jean Frelaut photo.

Showing the wings folded

Jean Frelaut's Christmas Card image from December 1985 showing PP972 having been restored in the markings that it carried when embarked on board the carrier "Arromanches" in 1948.

PP972 in a 'wired off compound' at Base Aeronavale 83 Gâvres, near Lorient, parked alongside a derelict Bloch 175T. It was first seen by Jean Frelaut during 1965 and in 1970 he managed to buy it at scrap value — the Bloch was scrapped on the same day — and his team of enthusiasts moved it to the aerodrome at Vannes-Meucon. To Doug Arnold, UK in 1988 for restoration at Biggin Hill. Registered G-BUAR in January 1992. Photo by Jean Frelaut