Early motor cycles had generated an interest in the internal combustion engine, this in turn directing his choice of trade as Mechanic, he finally completed his service as a "Group 1 Corporal Fitter", one of the highest paid trades in the service at that time (and pay at the time was, per day).

After demobilisation in December 1945 he joined the motor trade, and stayed with it for the next for the next 45 years. During this time he became active in motorsport, specialising in 'Sprints' and 'Hill climb' activities around the early 60s.

Two Class E World records were achieved in 1966, and today he still holds all eight "C Class National Records" taken with a 1600cc Cosworth engined Brabham BT21C on the main Elvington runway between 1971 and 1974.

It is said "Although a man can be removed from the Royal Air Force, the Royal Air Force cannot be removed from the man"

On retirement from the motor trade Gerry formed the Wellington Aviation Museum, which was opened officially by Air Marshal Sir Ivor Broom in 1990.

(Pictured right)
Gerry after recieving his MBE in 1999.