christchurch and district model flying club

• Chairman’s Musings

Perhaps the worst summer for flying any type of model aircraft? Being a glider flyer I have really noticed just how the weather has changed. Why a glider flyer should notice the difference more than others? Easy, they fly from hills; they need the wind to be onto the slope, it’s been mainly northerly directions. Stanpit, although a flat field, it is better when the wind is in particular directions, SW & W always seem to work better.  

Just a 9 month period to review on this rare occasion. The biggest change within the club for many years will be our affiliation into the British Model Flying Association (BMFA).  For those who are not currently members of the association the changes will be.

• 5M Third party insurance cover, incl’ modeller to modeller.
• Committee indemnity from insurance claim liability by a member.
• A by-monthly newsletter from the BMFA direct to your door.
• A recognised scheme for model flying safety.
• All the above is only a few of the benefits. Divided we fall, united we stand.

This entails much work for the committee such as updating the Club Constitution. All paperwork needs to show our BMFA Club number which will be 2581.

Our training paperwork needs modifying to completely conform to the national body. Local authority meetings to advise our insurance change, all in all plenty to do.

If you’ve not rejoined yet please send your membership form along with a cheque payable to C&DMFC to; Andrew Tubb, 34 Hunt Road, Christchurch, Dorset. BH23 3BN. The fee, including BMFA membership, is £33.

Your committee hasn’t made any decisions concerning the BlueBird electric glider competition in 2008. We had a poor turn out on many Tuesday evenings; the weather was a LARGE contributory factor. If any member wants to let me (or any committee member) know their feelings we would be grateful.  If we don’t hear from you we may well withdraw from the event. Perhaps just electric models weekly fly-in each Tuesday evening from May to the end of August?  Come on; give us your views – PLEASE. Ring Terry Antell on 01425 611530 or 07786887888.

The ever popular Friday Night Thermal Comp was well contested throughout 2007. We, your committee, don’t see any reason to change the rules or format for 2008.

The Rose Bowl thermal competition was cancelled because of unsatisfactory weather. Our electric/thermal model fly-in at Keyhaven suffered the same fate.

Hordle Fete enjoyed better weather this year. Our club received much interest as in the preceding years. Thanks to all who entered static models for our display.

Quite a few members have taken slope, fixed wing power and/or electric glider tests, something to be applauded I think.  Currently we have one 15 year old junior member who has mastered the English language along with model flying. Well done Csaba (pronounced Chubba).

May we, the committee, wish you all a contented Christmas and happy landings in 2008.

Terry Antell

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