Winds forecast 180/20. Messy frontal systems out to the west. cloud forecast at 2000ft.

Briefing was at 7.15 with first launch 8.00am.Launch failure practice to start---Caroline found herself above cloud and only at 600 ft herself, very pretty but clouds were significantly lower than they appeared from the ground. The picture below was taken around 9.00 o'clock, a bunch of enthusiastic club pilots waiting to get flying.

Mid morning we were asked to suspend flying while a police helicopter carried out a search for an escaped convict. We see it all at Aston Down.

One private aircraft appeared on line, Darren Wills trying out the Jeans Astir for size. By midday the rains appeared and most of the gliders were packed away in the hangar. The course continued operating between the rain showers until we were also forced to give up.

The course rather wet by this time dried off and went down to the Weighbridge for a pie and a pint. On our return a small team were seen putting up a large tent in readiness for the competition. All I know, it was dark and raining when we went to bed---the tent was still being assembled. Thats dedication for you.