Mellotron stories

Tell us your Mellotron story!  When did you encounter the Mellotron?  Do you recall the feels and the smells of the machine?  Did you play the Mellotron?

I like these threads. I liked the moog one too.

Sadly, I have never played either of the instruments mentioned, apart from as VST's. I'd fucking LOVE to have a go on a real moog though, those things are fucking sexy.

I'd like a go on a mellotron too, to play the intro from Strawberry fields on it.