This was an informal opportunity for members to get together to have a look at our new site and it’s progress in meeting our present and future requirements. It also allowed members to learn of the rules and guidelines relating to it’s use and to raise and discuss any items of concern to them.

And of course, the main purpose of the day, plenty of flying (and eating according to some observations!).

I was delighted at the turn out on what may not be an easy time, Saturday morning, for some members to get away from other commitments. I can recall 39 faces of persons attending and it was good to see this included some members wives, partners and friends. Single line parked vehicles must have occupied a distance approaching three quarters the length of the field.

Attendees included those of the RC Helicopter and Fixed Wing, Control Line and RC Glider fraternity, old timers with plenty of flying under their belt, new comers just beginning the sport and members whose presence has not been seen for some time. A very good turn out of members with the usual friendly, good humoured, and relaxed style for which LMFC have a worthy reputation.

It is still very early days in the development and use of this site but so far reports are positive with the overall view of members being that it is a very good site, in a good location. There are some aspects that, although having been given thought from the start of discussions with farmer John about possible use of the site, it’s size and layout, remain to be resolved. One of these considerations has been how best to accommodate members who fly control line and whilst the Club is committed to pursuing a requirement within the yet to be developed alternative site at Dishley, the desire of everyone is to maintain all disciplines on one site so they can continue to be seen to be, and feel as though they are still, members of LMFC. I am sure many of you will realise that LMFC was founded on the basis of control line flying and I for one enjoyed very many years partaking as both a combat and aerobatic pilot.

Despite the difficulties, which are not insurmountable with a flexible approach all round, there was a good example on the day of how LMFC members work together and recognise the needs of all disciplines within the Club.

The RC Fixed Wing’ers stayed grounded whilst the Control Line’rs and RC Helicopter’s took to the air and there was no objection to repeating this if the need arose after the initial flying sessions.

During my discussions with some control line members I mentioned we had increased the size of the field from forty to fifty meters specifically so we could accommodate control line on the site. However, during flying today with the longer lines in use, whilst there was sufficient spare room at the outer edges of the circle, it may be beneficial to place a central marker as an aid (but I am sure they have this in mind already). Alternatively, the addition a few metres more may be beneficial; we will see what views are expressed on this and other items that were brought up during the day.

We must continue to move forward in small stages to ensure our financial commitment is not overbearing, especially at this early stage when there may still be considerations for our continued use of the site e.g. doing all we can to minimise the likelihood of noise becoming a problem. At this juncture, without wishing to appear one sided, it was good to see that the control liner’s were mindful of this fact and only used glow engines which are more readily silenced without loss of power, compared to diesel engines. I noted an RC’er who quite readily gave up his aircraft for a measurement of it’s noise, so well done to that member also.

As I said earlier, there was a very relaxed atmosphere and everyone was certainly enjoying the day, with the weather improving as the day wore on. One member cycled to the event and proffered that as a reason for not being able to fly (couldn’t carry his aircraft as a pillion passenger!).

No, not ‘Spot the Ball’, but a busy flight line with safety officer (yes, that’s him with hands on hip) on hand to not only ensue everyone is mindful of the safety issues at the site but also to provide guidance on other useful aspects of model aircraft flying.

Although this is a busy time for John (the farmer), members who were not able to be there on Saturday may be interested to know that he has now evened out many of the bumps and hollows in the track leading to the field. Obviously this has made it less of a problem for those who do not have four wheel, high axle, vehicles and this is much appreciated. One member arrived in his open top sports car, very nice it was too, so he was able to accommodate the track without any difficulty. Thank you, John, your timing was perfect and fitted in nicely with this event.

Finally, thanks to all members who helped and especially those who were able to visit the site and make it such a worthwhile and enjoyable day. I for one, am looking forward to more days like this. Here are a few more pictures to round off.

My best wishes to everyone. Brian.

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