The above was taken at Gatwick Airport in August 1971 and records a landmark event.

I was preparing to board a Dan Air flight to Bangkok. My excitement was greatly amplified by the fact that this was to be aboard the iconic Comet 4 airliner (G-APDK). I was on my way back to Laos.

I had already spent two years there working with Voluntary Service Overseas (VSO) but now I was returning to develop the work of the C&MA’s recording studio in Vientiane.

This adventure proved to be a steep learning curve for me. Meeting Hennie, starting a family and navigating the political changes in Southeast Asia were each significant milestones – yet they all happened in quick succession.