Back to a typical late Winters day

With low cloud initially, but forecast set to improve Tim Barnes, Graham Turner and Martin Heyward set up the winch on the main runway having done the siting assessment and cable checks. I managed my personal new year resolution to give a briefing each time I'm on duty, but the first signs of rustiness there appeared when I forgot a couple of things I'd wanted to cover and which was indicative of how everyone was feeling. We needed a day of safe flying to get the "Scotchbrite" on the rustiness of us all!

We already had a full flying list by 9.30, but with only 2 K21's available we knew it would be difficult to fly everyone, which was made worse by 2 of the instructors ourselves needing check flights first! The days activity was 2 x ODCs, flown by Tim and Don, winter refreshers, a 5-year check for Gerry Holden and with a few members wanting to get airborne.

The ever enthusiastic UWE members were on site, and decided to sort their trailer out whilst the early check flying took place. Gerry also got the Venture out and shared the fun with a couple of the UWE team. The USK Grob also made an appearance with enthusiastic flying from the group, and the K23 was able to be used by the less rusty members.

The expected brighter weather appeared for just about an hour, but then it returned to grey and showers, with the wind picking up a bit and a consideration of winch / launchpoint and making sure drift corrections were appropriate. In the end the lowering cloud and slight constant drizzle ended the day, unfortunately before a couple were able to fly but sometimes the weather makes the decision for you! Those who flew know we still need to now add further polish but at least we did use up some flying Scotchbrite!

Thanks to everyone who came out and helped.

Paul Lazenby