Apologies for absence: Jack Bishop
Flying field
It was reported that we have one site to look at. All members are to be encouraged to keep a look out for potential sites, particularly along the M4 corridor where noise etc is less likely to be a problem.
It was agreed that we should pursue the idea of putting a sign up below the signs provided by the Park simply stating that model flying takes place at the site. The secretary will agree the wording with the site manager and then Dave will find suitable materials to make up the sign.
Tony raised the question of the Richfield Avenue site that was formerly used by the club. As far as he was aware, permission to use it for glider flying had not been rescinded. At the moment the use of electrics would not be allowed but we could possibly write to the Council to seek permission for such models. There was discussion about the suitability of the site, particularly in respect of public access which would be similar to our current site. It was pointed out that the flying of small ‘toy’ aircraft flying is seen as acceptable in some parks. The chairman expressed reservations about the amount of space available at Richfield Avenue. It was agreed that Dave and Tony would pace out the site for its suitability.
A request had been made to allow the flying of park flyers at Dreadnought in the early morning. This is the time of day when the winds are light, and park flyers do not mix with other aircraft. The secretary agreed to raise the matter with the park management and landlords. This would be done on the basis that it would be strictly for genuine park flyer type models only and the club would find a suitable definition for what would be allowed. The proposal would be an ad hoc arrangement to avoid the need to amend the existing agreement on flying times.
Programme of events
The programme has been published in the newsletter and on the web site.
75 Anniversary Event
Following on from the discussion at the AGM, Tony explained that he had done some more research on the dates when the club was formed. There are records of the first organised model flying taking place in the Borough on May 28th 1931. There is certainly history of the club dating back to 1933. It was agreed that the significant date was 1931 and that that should be the date celebrated.
There was then discussion about possible sites for an event with Kings Meadow, Abbey RFC, Bulmershe School and Richfield Avenue being mentioned. In all cases, further exploration of their suitability would need to be made, particularly in the light of the earlier discussion about Richfield Avenue.
It was agreed to approach Reading Borough Council about the use of a site and the possibility of funding. It was agreed to visit Kings Meadow to look at its suitability.
It was agreed that the charity being supported for the event should be the air ambulance.
There was discussion about the availability of people to fly at an event and the timing of the event. Other club would be invited to attend and participate.
It was agreed that Tony be appointed as the event administrator and would pursue the various organisations on behalf of the committee.
Any other business
Cups The club owns a number of cups which could be awarded for the various competitions. At present the whereabouts of many of them is not known and members are to be invited to bring in any of the club cups to a club meeting so that we can gather them together.
Letter of thanks. A letter to thanks for the donation to funds had been received from the Air Ambulance. The charity is holding a Captain Scarlet evening and is also looking for people to run the half marathon for sponsorship. Anyone interested should contact Tony.
The meeting closed at 21:57. Next meeting on March 23rd at the David Lloyd Centre