Event for desktop pilots takes off at RAF Cosford

Hundreds of people from all over the country visited Flight Sim 2014, an event which saw top names from the world of flight simulation show off the best software and hardware for the desktop pilot.

Visitors to Hangar 1 on Saturday got the chance to try the latest aircraft and chat with leading developers and publishers, including Just Flight, the UK's largest publisher of flight simulation software, which showcased all its latest releases, including the DC-8 and the Eurofighter.

"It has gone better than we expected," said Scott Phillips, organiser. "We had about 1,800 people for the inaugural event last year and I would say we will probably hit 2,000 this year.

"Similar events around the country only get 200 to 300 people.

"Because last year's event was successful we thought we would hold it again this year.

"We have people who are interested in flight simulators come from all over the country.

"They get to see the latest software, speak to people who share the same interest and pick up some bargains.

"We also have exhibitors from all over the world, including America, Spain and France.

"We have probably outgrown ourselves in here. Earlier you could hardly move in here so we may look to expand into another hangar."

John Edge, from Wellington, Telford, visited the event for the second successive year.

"I was so impressed that I felt I had to come back," he said.

"It is a big passion of mine so an event like this which is so close to home is ideal.

"It is great talking to people who are interested in the same thing and I have also been able to get myself a few bargains.

"This event can only grow and it is in such a great location." Simon Hall, from Coventry, said: "I came last year as well and it gives people the chance to see what products are coming up, meet people in the industry and get some bargains."

Simon Edwards, from Reading, added: "You get to see new technology, how things are changing and see what deals are out there.

"It is a wonderful setting."

Sherburn Aero Club, The North West Flight Simulator Group, Midland Computers, The PC Pilots Ireland, Vfrpoland.com, Wired2Fire and The 185th Virtual Fighter Squadron also exhibited on the day.

For more information visit www.flightsimulatorshow.com