Duty Instructor Peter Smith said during his Daily Briefing that he was slightly concerned when he arrived at NHL that there was not enough people to fly. He was in fact saying this to a packed clubhouse, maybe some forgot to set their alarm clocks or simply just lost their way in the thick mist on the journey to the club.
 |
| Mist clearing (Mark Layton) |
On completion of the daily brief, which optimistically suggested we might fly if/when the mist burnt off, various members scattered themselves to different parts of the airfield to do something rather than sit in front of the log burner in the now lovely warm clubhouse.
 |
| Gator ready to retrieve (Mark Layton) |
One team dismantled the windsock flagpole at the west end for repair as the 'newness' had finally worn off. Another group rigged HCX after the repaired rear canopy had been refitted and completed the final checks. Mark 'Fire Starter' Courtney along with his able assistant Steve Westlake carried on constructing the new wood store or what some believe is an outside office for the CFI. Whilst the remainder unpacked the hanger and DI'd the gliders.
 |
| Condensation forming on the wing (Mark Layton) |
To everyone's surprise the mist slowly burnt off over lunchtime and once the ok was given the field was set up in double quick time. In the benign conditions the flights, although relatively short were none the less enjoyable in the now clear blue skies. The views across the valley to both coasts were spectacular as the mist was still hanging on in the lower area's.
Mist in the valleys
With only a few members needing currency check flights Peter Smith quickly got through the two seat list before flying with a walk in visitor. Meanwhile the post solo pilots using a Junior and the Perkoz all managed a flight before the setting sun started to cause issues along with the dreaded misting canopies.
It was another day that didn't look too promising but turned out much better than expected with everyone going home happy that they had flown.
.jpeg)
