A disappointing day. The forecast predicted modest ENE wind with gusts over 20 knots. A goodly crew assembled but it was clear that the wind strength was already exceeding our expectations, so Messrs Perriam and Smith departed on a recce to the west end.
The first clue was the firing range red flag was horizontal and trying to tear itself off the pole. What quickly became apparent was that the wind was consistently at or above the forecast gust strength with short periods when it fell below. So I called an adjournment to see if it moderated during the latter part of the morning. Midday came and went and the only change was more north in the wind which wasn’t expected or helpful. So the ground toys were put away, and the gliders stayed put in their hangar. Chris Warnes looked after potential new member Ainsley, and next best thing to real flying was some time in the DSGC simulator.
Various bits of house/field work were tackled. Stuart Procter and Martin Woolner came to rig the DG505 having returned from Portmoak, but thought better of it until calmer conditions prevail.
One pleasant and welcome surprise was a visit from John Street who was on good form with the usual banter. We wish him well and hope to see him again soon. - Peter Smith
