Sunday 20th December - the first flyable weekend day for a very long time. Although the airfield was very squelchy underfoot, sometimes giving the buggies trouble in moving two seaters, we are better placed than some clubs in having hard runways and a well-drained airfield. Many without these advantages couldn't operate after the monsoons of recent weeks.

Every serviceable club glider was out except the ASW19. Many members enjoyed their first flights since October. Apart from a prolonged hiatus while we sheltered from torrential rain, all three glass two seaters were kept busy all day giving flying to those who felt rusty and completing Winter Refreshers for two members, as well as a lot of Trial Lessons.
The wind thought to be in excess of 40 kts at height enabled launches to around 2000 ft and at least one to above 2300 ft.

The modified winches with automatic pay-out brakes were tried out for the first time. One has been completely re-furbished and the other is awaiting similar treatment.. The opportunity is being taken to give all winch drivers refresher training while familiarising them with the modifications - a start was made on this by Simon, Andy and Chris. It is hoped this re-training will enable everyone to be kinder to the winches, so keeping them in their newly re-furbished state for longer.

Festive aspects to the day included Darren's headgear and Jane's mince pies, distributed after hangar packing.

Photos by Tim Barnes