Sat 26th October

An optimistic forecast brought a fair number to the club today; it really was like a spring day, not even slightly autumnal. The hangar was completely emptied, but unfortunately, Simon Minson noticed a knocking from the wheel of our only serviceable K21. Step up Simon Leeson, with the help of a few others, to rectify the fault in double quick time. Well done, all!

We set up with the winch in the top NW corner near the gate and the launch point on the north boundary. We were all ready to go by the time of the 9:30 briefing held in front of a packed clubhouse—lovely to see. Andy Pincome arrived for a couple of signatures on his instructor application form; hopefully, we will see him in action very soon. Welcome to the team!

Congratulations To Ashley Thomas Bronze  with Simon Minson (Mark Courtney)

 Simon Leeson started tackling the flying list with the help of myself and Simon Minson, whose first task was to complete Ashley’s Bronze flight test. I’m pleased to say that Ashley passed with flying colours—another well done for the day!

Everyone was kept busy (Rob Hender)

 Sally Hender manned the launch point and managed the operation until Tim Petty, the duty marshal, arrived a bit later in the morning. It was nice to see a couple of new members today, Ainsley Fisher and Adam Lay; they both enjoyed themselves, judging by the look on their faces. We entertained three first-flight visitors today; they were looked after by Shaun, who seems to be embracing his new instructor rating.

Kevin Fairburn in Junior (Simon Leeson)

 

James Flory was kept busy in the Fox with a little help from Simon Leeson—7 tows in total. A little lower than I would have liked, especially as we are still enjoying the discounted aerotow charges until Jan 1st.
Pete Startup enjoyed a long soaring flight but was just pipped by John Pursey, who was test flying the SF27 after it had some work done to its wings—138 mins. On landing, Alan Rappaport jumped in for his first flight on type for a short flight.

Alan Rappaport converting to SF27 (James Hood)

 

The conditions at times were really quite good, and several people had long flights, including Josh Batchelor with Simon Leeson. Josh is here for a few more days before returning to a rather chilly Canada. It was lovely to see Cheryl Smith back in the air for the last flight of the day; hopefully, we will see her back in the saddle more often now that the shackles of catering have been released.

Cheryl Smith and Simon Leeson (James Hood)

 Thanks to Vicky for coping with the crowds, and of course, a big thanks to everyone who made this rather pleasant autumn day a success. - Mark Courtney