It makes a change to be writing this when the weather has actually been pretty good for a few days. Who knows how long this little spell will go on for (it is not yet mid month at the time of writing) but at least it's possible to do some flying. That is more than can be said about many recent weeks, of which more below.
The field
The field has been down to grass and may well have been cut by the time you get this. If so, it will not be too long before the sheep come back and the fence will be in use again. We had some bad news about our strip maintenence when Alan Carver, who has done such a good job over recent years, told us his mower engine had blown up and he had decided it was not economical to repair as he was going to retire. Fortunately, through Antony Redding's contacts, we have found someone to repace Alan, a Mr. Hopkins, and he has already made a start.
Membership
We welcome several new members who are all qualified flyers or have joined with their individual training arrangements in hand. They are:
- Tony Grubb of Kingsthorne, Hereford.
- Martin Smith of May Hill.
- Hugh White of Ross-on-Wye. (Hugh was founding secretary of HMAC many moons ago)
Club Competition
This is postponed to 6th July due to weather and state of the field. If you wish to take part (rules enclosed again) please let Antony know on 07828 329121 or 01989 768996 or e-mail: antony.redding1@btopenworld.com He needs to know how many will be entering and be able to contact you if there are any changes. Frankly, the response to the previous date was disappointingly low so come on and have a go. Simple rules, no pressure.
Clubhouse
The chemical toilet which is kept in the small shed at the side of the clubhouse has been so misused and neglected, obviously by someone in the club because there are no signs of break-in, that the committee has reluctantly decided to cease the provision of a toilet at all. This decision was not taken lightly but we saw no other practical option.
Noise tests
The committee has reviewed the situation regarding noise tests and have decided that from now on an air test will be required only when a model reaches a reading of 82 on the ground test. This means the vast majority of models (on past form) will need ground tests only which can be conducted by one committee member alone- no need for a another adult. Only when an air test is needed will a second adult member be required.( As before, any model can be required to have a full test at any time if it is felt to be unduly noisy).
Coming events
The field will be in use by the Steam Rally over the weekend of 19th and 20th July and for some days around that time. Over August Bank Holiday weekend there will be a large music event. The land owner has assured us that our strip and property will be protected and that any damage to the filed will be made good for our show.
Show
This will be on 6th and 7th September. We have booked a display by a Battle of Britain Memorial Flight "Spitfire" on the Sunday. Please give some thought to how you can help in setting up and taking part over the show weekend. I will be sending out specific requests for help nearer the time but remember we depend on plenty of support from our members to keep this annual event the success we have become used to.
Training
There is still a backlog in Training and we still cannot recruit new members who are not qualified or do not have the means to get trained without relying on club instructors. However, Ben Bates has offered to help where he can, provided the trainee has access to a buddy box system and prior arrangements are made. Ben works full time so any spare time is obviously limited.Please remember to ALWAYS make arrangements beforehand for trainmg or for noise tests. Do not turn up on spec - you will be disappointed.
That's all for now. Remember, if you have anything you want included in the next newsletter please let me know A handbook amendment slip is enclosed
Bernard Morris