MEMORIES flooded back for Second World War pilot William Hands when he took to the skies above the Imperial War Museum.

Despite being wheelchair-bound, the Bournemouth pensioner had the chance to relive the thrills and spills of his aerial adventures.

William, 88, who also flew in action during the Korean War, said: “Flying again was great; it was easier to get in and out of the aircraft than I had expected.

“However, I would have liked to done some aerobatics during the flight!

“The icing on the cake was going around the museum and seeing so many of the planes I had flown in during service.”

The trip of a lifetime was set up by Thatcham-based Gowrings Mobility and Aerobility, a charity offering disabled people the opportunity to fly a plane.

During the Gowrings Mobility Roadshow at the Imperial War Museum, William viewed 19 of the 23 aircraft he had piloted including a Sea Fury, a plane he flew during the Korean War.

He is keen to return to the roadshow later this year when it visits the Fleet Air Arm site in Yeovilton, where he was based.

The event is aimed at inspiring people with disabilities to experience attractions and places of interest which they may not have otherwise considered.

For more information phone 0845 608 8020.