Booming thermic conditions from the first launch and another fantastic day out at Shawbury with over 14 hours of flying – top job. Such was the day that Hangar 4 was empty.

The lawn had been cut short and with a moderate headwind take-off runs on r’way 36 were short, albeit a bit bumpy.

With a full flying list we also welcomed a number of visitors the first of whom was George. George, Will’s son, is clearly dead keen and shows super early potential to become a pilot. We also stressed to Elaine that Will really needs to stop all this part time nanny excuse stuff and get on the arfield for the whole day!

Conditions were superb for our three MEF gliding bursary students, Reece, Harry M and Danny, who dragged themselves away from revising for exams to be with us on the airfield today. Good luck to Danny who leaves on posting to RAF Odiham and is applying for Go-Solo funding to continue his flying at Odiham.

Whilst many took the opportunity to take a soaring trip in the conditions, Toby completed his instructor renewal with a couple of trips with Ian, and Andy Hagan took some Bronze C training with Alan. Well done to Sophie who took the Concrete Swan (AKA R66) aloft for a trip 1h 45 mins.

With booming thermals, it was a day to enjoy.

Welcome to Cathy, a member of a military wives choir, who joined us a Raffle prize winner. We placed Cathy on the capable hands of instructor Brad and they enjoyed a great soaring tip of 47mins. We hope to see you on another day Cathy.

We were also delighted to welcome Amy, daughter of Shawbury based Cathy who some may recall played a large part in getting the club moved from Cosford to Shawbury, and for which we owe Cathy a big thank you. Amy took a trip with the Vicar in R35 and turns out she is a natural pilot. Hope we have whetted your appetite and that we might see you again Amy.

Nothing like taking a trip on Sunday with the Vicar to get nearer thy….never mind! Mrs Luke pitched up with John so we sent her up with the Vicar. Sadly, Mrs Luke, a former detective sergeant, having given the Vicar a severe airborne grilling got no nearer to finding out where last week’s collection plate takings went!

Finally, the older lads can rejoice as the days are over of breaking your fingers, pulling a muscle or getting a hernia. The ASK21 heavyweight steel reinforced towbar has been replaced by an altogether lighter alli job. It also fits the Astir. Brilliant and well-done John.