I first met Alec in June 1966, when he was already a "living legend," with many rumours circulating about his exploits. One anecdote suggested that he travelled France visiting many civilian airfields (which at the time abounded), and was determined to "log" over a thousand French Jodels (the Jodel being a small, economical light aircraft, which was mass produced for the home market, as well as exports.)

Everyone who met Alec could not fail to be embraced by his strong personality, exuberance at everything he tackled, and energy levels that left contemporaries in a wrecked wake. All his friends and associates have "tales to tell," and the more outlandish the account, the greater the interest to groups of the like minded. Many tales were associated with his vehicles, of which there were many. Like the new Fiat which he collected from the dealer on Friday, and took back on Monday ready for the first 1,500 mile service. Alec had driven to Madrid and back for an aviation event. The Ford Popular "three gear wonder," Ford Escort Mexico, numerous clapped out vans, most of which served as a hotel and kitchen during sales events overseas at weekends. Rarely was a vehicle traded-in, as most were worn out, or beyond economical repair. The vast trade stall at Mildenhall's yearly Air Fete, which was housed in an artic" trailer, dominated the trade area. He ordered a truck load of Coca Cola, which he decided would help him to make a "killing" at one Air Fete, and which the base embargoed as being outside of his permitted sales area. Years later, with many of the cans long past their sell-by-date, and some with rust showing, were still being sold to a thirsty public at small aviation events - Alec claiming to have eventually made a killing selling then at a premium on hot days.

He even cheated death once before, when he collapsed at Stansted Airport, when queuing to take a family holiday. A quick thinking para-medic saved his life, and Alec gradually bounced back, albeit not quite the man he was before. I am happy to have known Alec, and more importantly joyful to have been able to call him a friend. Alec left a huge legacy, with a void impossible to fill. All who knew him have fond memories, which time will not degrade.