Lyveden New Bield - 28th July 2007

The day started nicely and I was fully intent on heading over to Duxford for the American Air Day, however, with the action not getting underway till 1300, I held my departure off till 1130, by which time the cloud had rolled in. I'd promised Sammy we'd do something, so we decided we'd head over to a glider strip about ten miles from our home.

We drove up and spoke to the guy operating the winch. I asked if we were ok to take pictures and he said we'd be most welcome. He gave us the option of staying at his end, or going to the other where all the action was taking place. It was a no brainer!

He radioed the other end of the airfield and they confirmed that no take offs or landings were imminent, and that we were clear to proceed.

Upon arrival we were given a quick safety brief about where we could and couldn't go, and then Sammy was given the chance to sit in some of the gliders. Some were very basic, to say the least!!

The most striking thing for me about the Welland Gliding Club was the friendly nature of the place, with everyone chipping in. If the winch cables needed fetching someone would go and get them, if a glider needed pushing back after landing, someone would go and help. It really typified the whole ethos of the club.

This was something that was a bit different for me, and I have to say I really enjoyed it. The egg and bacon rolls in the clubhouse are spot on too!!

Thanks go out to everyone who welcomed us and looked after us.