7th Jan 1943

7th Jan
Ranged 890 Squadron to run engines – all OK. Then struck down 2 aircraft amd ranged 6 of 892. Intended to fly off all 12 aircraft at 1500 (BST) but cancelled it owing to unfavourable weather – frequent rain squalls, low cloud and poor visibility. Ship was steaming dead into wind at 12 knots – wind speed over the deck was 35-40 knots. No up-to-date weather report was available from Machrihanish – intended destination of aircraft. Aircraft were picketed and covered and remained ranged on deck in taking-off positions.