With a forecast involving no rain, after what has been a somewhat wet week, I was expecting the flying list to fill up quickly. Clearly I had set my motivation meter in the wrong position.
However, as the orographic cloud dissipated, a small but determined crew started to arrive. Mike Sloggett and Simon Leeson, after discussions with Nick, spent some time working out the best airfield layout, to try and accommodate a somewhat fickle southerly wind.
As we approached the first launch, a minutes silence was observed and then Mike and Simon worked though the flying list. Simon flew with recent newbie Dan Hedger, after assisting Mike with and introduction to a returning trial lesson pilot Paul and his 11 year old son Tom. Dave Perrian and Dave Cowley shared the Junior in what were quite challenging conditions.
The booked trial lessons ultimately fell foul of the really tricky southerly winds none of which took place. Tugging Robert gladly handed the tug over to Pete Warren who launched Chris Wool in the Perkoz while putting Guy through his five year instructor checks.
New syllabus for 5 year checks? (Simon Leeson)
After an early lunch the training and check flights continued with more flights for Trevor in his mission to restore a yellow rating whilst Mike transferred to the Perkoz to allow Chris to continue Guy's torture with winch launches in a K21.
Ella then continued to get closer to her goal with launch failure practice with Simon. Chris Warnes had a few launches in the Junior to make up for the lack of trial lesson flights as did Paul Medlock. Thanks to the boss Sally, who eventually rocked up after a lie in and to everyone I have forgotten to mention, winch driving, cable retrieving and the like.
Stuart in the Perkoz (Stuart Procter)
Finally, a relaxed Stuart turned up late free of the burden of his responsibilities and took the Perkoz for a fly. - Simon Leeson
