Thank you

Thanks to all those who attended the Book Launch on the 13th June. It was truly a most wonderful day for me and, judging by the feedback I’ve been getting, it was the same for most people. With a good sprinkling of Jimmy’s family and the aviation industry plus my own family and friends, it seemed to go over rather well. It certainly exceeded all my expectations.

Christine Robertson, former PA to the late great aviatrix Nancy-Bird Walton, told us how she and Nancy had sat with the manuscript for an hour an evening, sometimes longer. Then, on the 6th of January Nancy dictated the Foreword, and signed it off. It was the last thing she did, for one week later she passed away. It was her last gesture for the preservation of the spirit of aviation.

Bob Melrose, Jimmy’s nephew, launched the book with a take-off drill for a Tiger Moth (which Bob used to fly) and what a fitting way it was to send Boy Phoenix out into the world. There were tears shed by many during his emotional speech, bringing the reality of what Jimmy meant to his family to all present.

Boy Phoenix

The books have just been delivered and it’s becoming real. Saturday 13th June – Book Launch Day looms. It’s been 3 years in the making, the quest beginning with a single photograph of Jimmy Melrose.

It’s largely had its own momentum with any obstacles quickly resolved. As the last words were put down there was a sense of letting something precious go – out in to the world – to fend for itself.  

There is a feeling of excitement amongst friends and families, both mine and Jimmy’s, about the release of Boy Phoenix. Like awaiting a birth, the sense of anticipation heightens with each day. I am especially pleased that people are so keen because all along I have felt a sense of excitement too, there’s something about it.

The launch is shaping up to be a reunion amongst many for the mix of attendees is wide and varied. It’s a celebration of the memory of Jimmy Melrose, the young man who offered so much and who was loved by so many.

I hope you enjoy the book as much as I did writing it. This Blog will enable me to keep you updated as well as to respond to your comments and queries, so feel free to share in the discussions or stories about Jimmy, his planes and that wonderful pioneering time of aviation.  Learn a snippet about Jimmy at www.jimmymelrose.com