Wed 30th January

Today was another opportunity for the weather to test the patience of those who ventured to go to the Club today. The roads on the way to the Club were like driving through a winter wonderland and on arriving at the entrance, and seeing the snow covered airfield, it was interesting to recall the brown dry grass of last summer!

Chairman Nick Jones leads the way (Mark Courtney)

As the members gradually arrived one by one, eventually enough had arrived to be able to start flying as and when the forecast snow showers ended.

However the low cloud base prevented any immediate plans to fly - but with K21 KEK in the workshop and awaiting re-rigging after it’s annual inspection, it was an easy decision to organise those present to get the glider out of the workshop.

The rigging team (Robert Lee)

So it was coats and jumpers on, and with careful watching of the snow and ice outside the workshop the K21 was re-rigged and control deflections checked.

On parade  (Mark Courtney)

 With some continuing optimism that the weather might improve enough for some aerotowing on what was a good airfield surface,  bearing in mind the snow which had fallen, an early lunch was taken by everyone.

Patches of blue sky developing (Mike Sloggett)

And then with patches of blue sky becoming more and more evident the decision was made to postpone the snowman-making competition for another day and to get some gliders ready for aerotowing. Daily inspections were completed on a K21, Junior and the Perkoz whilst the Pawnee was readied for action.

Quiz question - Why is North Hill still covered in snow? (Mike Sloggett)

And early afternoon, everyone’s patience was rewarded with some rather nice flights under a mainly blue sky above a snowy landscape and with clear visibility in every direction allowing spectacular views.

Thank you to everyone who helped others to get into the air today. - Mike Sloggett