Pal Italia

Sir,

I was interested to read your appraisal of Mike Parkes in the May edition.

It may not be generally known that Mike, like his father John Parkes, was also a fine pilot. John became a close friend when he lived near Ipswich in the ’70s. From time to time Mike would fly in from Modena in his Beech Baron to Martlesham Heath, outside Ipswich. Once Mike arranged as a birthday present to fly my wife and I to Gatwick to catch a flight to Athens, an unforgettable experience.

Although John Parkes was not a racing fan himself, he was very proud of Mike’s achievements. He talked about Mike a good deal and delighted in the flying visits from Modena.

I am, yours, etc. John NH Paton, Yarmouth, Isle of Wight