After an intended departure from the UWE bus stop at 08:00, all 11 students finally accumulated, so we left at 08:15. We arrived at 09:01 as threatened, and everyone met the kindly volunteered UWE Crew of Sarah (Winch), Simon, Richard and Mike (Instructors).

All kit was taken out, (2 x PW6's) however due to initially poor weather Mike gave a full safety brief. Meanwhile, Lara did a prologued sun dance, and low and behold, the weather improved (all be it, 2 hours later).

First launch was at 11:56. We managed 8 launches before lunch and all non-flown members were launched. A further 12 flights were completed post lunch. In the wait, Lara co-ordinated a training rotor between Launch Master and Lights. Almost all members managed a spell on both, with a few showing good competency and were allowed to do it without supervision. Simon Lucas came to try out his K21 after some repairs. He landed shortly afterwards after loops, stalls and two trips to VNE! Students were then allowed into the glider so three aircraft were out on the airfield.

There were lots of happy students - there were a few who had been up twice and not flown due to poor weather, so it was a brilliant relief to see their smiles after opening the canopy (post landing!). Last launch was at 17:18 due to deteriorating wind conditions. The two joint longest flights were 28 minutes with Mike Weston and Oliver Thompson, and Simon Buckley with his favourite blonde.

All kit was packed away and 4 of the 11 currently remain drinking in the bar. Roll on Tuesday!

Lara x