Once our small group of hardy Friday members was assembled, it was agreed that we could proceed with a day’s flying despite the heavy cloud. Tony Sorensen was waiting as our L2 instructor and also as SPA’s partner in the day’s activities is need be. Arthur Mailey, Bob Hainsworth and Ken Mitchell were waiting there ready to go so when we latecomers, John Nestor, Karl Bode and I arrived, preparations took on added impetus.

 

Karl took over as SPA’s for all nine flights and Tony supervised the activities from the shelter of the awning – and a very pleasant spot it turned out to be for the duration of the day on runway 06. We noted, with gratitude the skilled work of Charles Hoch in fixing the torn bits of the shade cloth and reminded ourselves that his efforts should be noted and thanks offered.

 

Arthur and Bob got flying under way in CQC and John followed quickly after in GYK with what was almost the ‘flight of the day’ at 42 minutes. Then any lift deserted us and flight times became a topic better forgotten. Therefore, we spent some pleasant time joining Tony in the shade where Steve and Nathan found us and where Garrett joined us in the hope of some flying time. Steve was sent home eventually to nurse his injuries once Nathan had taken enough photographs. Garrett stayed on to help with final flights, packing up and our usual debrief/refreshment time to finish the day. The black cloud and shower of rain that caused us to hurry to pack CQC back under its covers passed by leaving us with a rather lovely sky with tiny bits of fluffy cloud. Had we known, Tony and Garrett could have taken their planned hangar flight.

 

John lost his ‘flight of the day’ honour, pipped at the last moment by Bob and Arthur with their flight at the end of the flight sheet recording 1.12. However, John retained the honours for GYK so not all was lost. CQC’s five flights added up to 2 hours 37 mins and GYK recorded four flights for 1 hour 29 mins.

 

Hopefully, the Saturday crew will find more optimistic looking conditions and be encouraged to roll up in greater numbers than we managed.