WINDSOCK

NEWSLETTER OF THE READING & DISTRICT MODEL AIRCRAFT CLUB

May 2006

Dear Members

APOLOGY FOR ABSENCE

Sorry for the delay, but a tree got in the way. Recovery proceeding.

In the Meantime

The Club is doing well and, despite the weather, many are getting some decent flying in. The strip at the Dreadnaught is looking good, the new mowing arrangements obviously going well. So well in fact, that I was able to do a cross-wind take off last week with my electric ‘Zephyr’. The landing was not bad either; I just need a longer runway. No, not what you think, the change to a lighter, more powerful out-runner motor has transformed this model into a thermal hunter and the glide, well, nuf sed!

The 75^th Anniversary Committee Meeting of the RDMAC

Your Committee has been working very hard on this project and as you know, have considered many venues and situations. We are lucky that Jack Bishop has been prominent in the liaison of this event.

WHAT WE DEFINATLY NEED NOW – IS YOU!

The Anniversary Flying Meeting and Display, will now be held with the kind permission of the Head Teacher, Mrs. Jenny Garner, from early morning on –

SUNDAY 18^th JUNE, 2006 At

RYEISH GREEN COMPREHENSIVE SCHOOL

RYEISH GREEN, HYDE END LANE, READING, RG7 1ER

The programme of events looks exciting, but, as above, we do very much need the help of ALL MEMBERS on the day, with the running of the event, together with family and friends, for what will be a unique event for the Club. Contact any member of the Committee prior to the event with offers, suggestions or queries, but, most importantly, turn up on the day and lend a hand.

The 75^th Anniversary Celebration Day

A great deal of forward planning has already been made and below is a potted list of the day’s intentions:-

Flying Display

As you all know, to fly a radio controlled model aircraft at a public display, the pilot must have a “B” certificate. As we could do with a few more “B” qualified pilots, the committee took the decision to invite neighbouring clubs to join us for the day. It was found that there are in fact, some sixteen other BMFA Clubs in the twenty five mile radius of Reading and many of their qualified pilots have expressed a wish to join in the fun. This will also include such notables as Dudley Patterson and David Boddington.

Should there be enough of the ‘handle wanglers’ available, there will be a slot for Control Line flying. Certificate not required, but a degree of competence will be handy!

Static Display

If you are unable to fly in the above, your model will still be required for display. All types, whether finished or not. A display of vintage models from the early day’s of the club is planned and will include a replica of our Past President Wilf Smallcombe’s model of ‘The Rook’, which is currently being built by Jack Bishop.

The first successful model aircraft gas turbine engine was developed by a club member, the late Gerry Jackman. We hope to have a display of his work and this will be supported by Bob Roper with his modern gas turbine model. Not to be missed.

Many of you will remember Gerry who worked for Reading Model Supplies and probably helped many of you get started in the hobby.

A display of photographs and archive material is also planned and if you can add to this, your contribution will be most welcome.

The Museum of Berkshire Aviation will be involved and is intending to provide a display of Miles / Phillips & Powis aircraft. Bring out your Magisters, Hawks and Libellula’s to remember the great days of our famous Woodley Aerodrome, where indeed, our clubs first flying meeting was held, way back in 1923.

Supporters

Our chosen Charity, the Thames Valley and Chiltern Air Ambulance will be attending, although at present it is not known what format this will take. It is thought that a full size ‘Whirly Bird’ might have a bit of an effect on the flying of the model versions, but, we will see! It is hoped that other associations such as the A.T.C and R.A.F.A. will grace us with their presence and Traders, both local and otherwise may be in attendance.

All in all, it should be a great day out for the family.

Please ensure that this date is very prominent in your diary. Come along and help. Many hands make light work and will ensure that we all have time to enjoy a great day on this unique occasion. Just tell everyone, that they will have to wait 75 years for the next one, so our event on the 18^th June is not to be missed!

Other News

Big changes at Reading’s Hobby Stores, in that Paul and Tim have moved on. We have a new Manager in Eric Platts, who with fresh ideas from Ripmax, intends to provide a first class service to the Club and all modellers in the area. They are still offering to match any advertised prices. Remember to support your local model shop. Use it or loose it.

There have been some great monthly meetings at St. Barnabas Hall during the winter months, although attendance could still be better. During the summer of course, meetings will be held at the Dreadnaught site, but a new programme is already being planned for our indoor meetings from September. Don’t miss out and hope to see you there.

New arrangements for the flying of ‘Park Flyers’ at the strip are being negotiated. This could result in even more enjoyment with these lightweight wonders.

The recent floatplane event at Childe Beale was a great success. More are planned.

The concourse d’elegance meeting was well attended. Well done to all who entered and we wish you well for the fly-off, which at the moment, is intended to take place at the clubs ‘Picnic Meeting’ in September.

Chairman Martin still proceeding with the latest Flying Field search. Win the Reward !

Have you got, or do you know of, the whereabouts of any of the Club’s Trophies. Please shout loudly if you do.

LOOK FORWARD TO SEEING YOU ALL ON THE 18^TH JUNE

Tony Roberts

Editor

Tel: 0118 9477794