Christchurch and District Model Flying Club
 

Profile of a Member # 2

Peter Michael McLauchlan

By Terry Antell

Mike is the 2012 club secretary. He was born in Bristol, 31^st January 1933, moving with his family to Kenya in 1948.

Unfortunately his father died when he was 3 years old. His mother was a chiropodist. Members may remember the Model Workshop on Fairmile Road, Christchurch. This was her shop and they lived above the business.

His schooling was at Bournemouth Grammar before his move to warmer climes. 1949 saw him starting his apprenticeship with East Africa Railways & Harbours Company. He trained as a locomotive design engineer (steam).  He was called to serve his country and joined the army. This was at the time of the Mao Mao in Kenya.

He returned to England in 1970 and eventually worked for Hampshire County Council engineering dept.  He later became the manager of the Marchwood Incinerator Plant, a position he retained until retirement at the age of 68.

Modelling History

His interest started in Kenya with control line models. Everything had to be built from scratch in those days as engines were the only items purchased ready to run!  Early Radio Control (very iffy control) was beginning to become a reality. One of Michael’s friends designed & made his own Reed equipment, then plans, wood, etc. were acquired and models produced.

Full Size

Aviation was in his blood. After obtaining his Private Pilot’s Licence Michael enjoyed the vast open county side of Kenya flying Chipmunks’ and the ubiquitous Cub along with others.

Favourite Type of Modelling

While in Kenya it was control line, but after returning to the UK it became mainly aerobatic R/C using glow engines. A BMFA “B” was passed and then followed some display flying and pylon racing. During the early 1990’s Mike withdrew from active model flying.

Next Phase

We need to go back a few years here. Rifle shooting became a further interest. Not the Mao Mao this time but fixed targets! He was selected for the British International Team where he won many trophies, including the Overseas Cup. Much of his shooting took place at Bisley. Golf became the preferred sport, eventually off an 8 handicap. Unfortunately, following surgery on both knee joints he could only manage the 19^th hole. Bowls is another sporting activity where Mike has excelled. He is still a member of New Milton Bowls Club.

Further Ambitions

Mike hopes to continue flying and participating in club activities while encouraging others to progress their modelling ambitions.

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