Sunday 6th February

The day started with a degree of pessimism it has to be said, forecast was for very strong winds gusting to 38 kt and low cloud. The decision was made to drink some tea and review by 10! Ron, the duty instructor, continued the latest trend, held a briefing and talked about the weather and members' needs.

The aircraft were given their DIs and the field was set up with the launch point on the North boundary, however Ron made the decision that the wind was far too gusty at this time so the aircraft were temporarily put back in the hanger.

Pete Warren arrived on site and offered to take over Ron's duty, he then set about waiting for the wind to drop. Before long the wind did drop (a little) so a K21 was taken out of the hanger, the keenest of members hid behind the launch control and took in turns flying. To everyone's surprise it was soarable Paul summers and PW climbed to 2,000 ft, indeed everyone who flew managed to extend their flight times and experienced testing conditions particularly on the approach until lunch stopped play. After lunch Mark Courtney, having finished theory briefings with new member Pete the power pilot, dragged the other K21 out of the hanger and flew with Dave Weeks halfway to Exeter Airport and back, this inspired Matt Wright to get the DG out of the hanger. Simon Minson fresh back from retrieving his glider from Talgarth did not need to be asked twice if he would like to join him!



The south ridge was working in places particularly in the “bowl” near Dunks so whilst SM and MW exploited this area, other members continued to find large areas of lift in the valley.

When the light started to fade the kit was put to bed and the members retired to the club house in high spirits for tea and Minson's biscuits.

To sum up the day; the members who turned up were rewarded with some good flights and extended their skills in difficult conditions, never-say-never always try to turn up whatever the forecast you never know, you might just strike it lucky!

The DSGC dog made an appearance and promptly took a dislike to Paul Summers' glove.