Despite the cold weather, the forecast for clear(ish) skies and no rain were enough to draw out a sizable number of members today. On the basis that there was a bit of spritz in the air, the group seemed to prefer staying inside, so I caged Dave Perriam and Ashley to drive in some copper earthing rods at each of the west glider trailer power points in anticipation of further electrical certification work later this month.
But the instructors started herding the flock to the hangar and started the daily inspection of three two- seaters and one of the Juniors. They were walked down to the West end of the field.and after seeing tyre tracks from Saturday's attempt to winch launch, the decision was made to have reduced price aerotows. The Eurofox was deemed u/s due to some technical glitches, so the trusty Pawnee was pulled out and roared into life.
Soarable day (Daniel Johns)
Flights began around 11:30, with both members and instructors remarking that they wanted some mutual check flights since they hadn't flown since early December. Short flights began to last longer and by the time I flew our enthusiastic Trial lesson visitor at 12:30, there was evidence of light wave and also thermals. Dave easily won the "most fun" award of the day in FZF by climbing up to 2500ft QFE and staying up 53 minutes. Overall, 15 flights through the day kept the various tug pilots busy until the decision was made to pack the kit away before dark set in.
The cafe was also back in operation as Julie and her new partner, Dan, dished out breakfasts, hearty soup, sandwiches, chips and deserts. It was great having the club operating again, just as it should be. Rain, rain stay away - Tom Sides
