September 2008
Those present:-
Paul Robinson – Club Chairman
Arthur Peacop – Club Secretary
Peter Guiver - Club Treasurer
Apologies:-
Health and Safety.
No accidents to report.
Flying Sites.
Helicopter Field :-
Helicopter field in regular use– no problems to report.
Fixed Wing field:-
Field in use as and when weather permits.
Gary Field expressed concern over the number of non flyers joining the club who require flying training. As he is the only club trainer at present, his time at the flying field is taken up solely training and not enjoying his own flying which is understandably not much fun!
The committee asked whether those members able to assist would consider being added to the Instructors list which is noted below It should be noted that the majority of Instructors are only able to train on Saturdays.
Instructor List:- (Telephone numbers can be found on the Instructors list in the club members area)
Gary Field
Mick Wiltshere
Andy Stimpson
Adam Darby
Paul Robinson
Clive May
It was agreed that any trainee wishing to fly MUST telephone one of the Instructors on the day they wish to fly between 08:30 and 09:00 to book a training space. It is agreed that each instructor (if attending on the day) will take a maximum of two trainees only – bookings will be made on a first come first served basis, further trainees calling an instructor will be asked to telephone another Instructor on the list.
Website.
No news to report.
Events/Suggestions.
The club trailer has been relocated to the wooded area, and some boarding has been sourced to line the floor. This will need to be cut and it is hoped that this could be done when the window is installed. It has been agreed that the trailer will be painted matt black and a camo net draped over to disguise it from prying eyes. There is nothing of value left within the trailer – it is expected to be used for storage of table and chairs and to be used as a rest/lunch area out of the wind and elements for club members whilst at the site.
Members are asked not to leave any of their own possessions in the trailer, and as always not to leave rubbish or untidiness for others to clear up – Thanks!!!!
Any other business.
Members are advised that any nominations for committee members should be made next month (October) for the AGM in November.
Members are also advised that ballot papers were sent out with the recent BMFA news letter – please use these to vote.
Mick Wiltshere advised that it is BMFA ruling that any computer transmitter must have fail safes set for all models. This is at minimum to return the model engine to idle in the event that a radio signal is lost, reducing the risk of an uncontrolled model with wild running engine causing serious accidental injury.
Those present:-
Paul Robinson – Club Chairman
Peter Guiver - Club Treasurer
Apologies:-
Arthur Peacop
Health and Safety.
No accidents to report.
Flying Sites.
Helicopter Field :-
Helicopter field in regular use though bad weather – no problems to report.
Fixed Wing field:-
Due to adverse weather, there has been limited use of the fixed wing patch.
Members were made aware that the sale of the land had appeared to have fallen through, however we still need to be looking for alternatives. The land is still up for sale and it will inevitably be only be a matter of time before another offer is made. Members are urged to keep looking and to advise the committee members if they see anything at all that could be of use to us. Committee member’s contact numbers are on the website.
Website.
Website continues to be used, and has generated more new member contacts.
Events/Suggestions.
Due to the predicament with the sale of the fixed wing patch, it had been suggested that the school where we hold our monthly meetings be used as this year’s BBQ venue. John Markham has kindly asked his relevant authority for permission which has been granted (thanks John). Members were polled on the night and it was unanimously agreed that this years BBQ would be held at the school rather than chancing availability of the patch (and of course good weather)
We have use of the halls and field, along with picnic tables and WC’s (no more nettle rash!) which should make the day much more agreeable for all.
Small electric models (helicopters and fixed wing) are welcome, however no IC engines please, as the field has close neighbours. Should the weather be bad, small electric flying in the halls will be permitted as on club night.
Members are invited to provide suggestions for events on the day, these should be made at the May meeting please.
A date of the 21st June (wings and wheels is 28th June) was put to the members as this was the availability of John Markham who will of course be required to open up shop. This date was agreed by all present
We would like to take the opportunity to point out that whilst it is very kind of John to have arranged the Venue, it is our responsibility as a club to run the event including setting up and clearing away afterwards, therefore everyone’s help with this would be much appreciated to ensure an enjoyable and relaxing day is had by all.
Tickets/prices will be announced at May meeting.
Any other business.
The club would like to wish Arthur Peacop a speedy recovery after his operation and we all look forward to seeing him at the patch for some fine weather flying. Best wishes from all at the club Arthur.
Those present:-
Paul Robinson – Club Chairman
Arthur Peacop – club secretary
Apologies:-
Peter Guiver – Club Treasurer
Health and Safety.
No accidents to report.
Flying Sites.
Helicopter Field :-
Site being used when weather permits – no other news.
Fixed Wing field:-
Site being used when weather permits –
A local model flyer visited the flying field whilst members were flying advised that he flew on the other side of the airfield on frequency 88 – unfortunately he disappeared before we could get any contact details!! - members were advised to check frequencies before flying and advise any problems encountered. It is possible that additional flyers are flying in the same area as this person – should any other aircraft be noted, members are asked to try and make contact to clarify frequencies being flown etc. Please advise the committee in any such instance – please try to obtain a contact telephone number or email address of any non-club flyers as we will need to ensure no frequency clashes.
Website.
Website now operating correctly, no problems reported – please send all photos to Steve hill – e-mail details on website.
Events/Suggestions.
Events for next year were advised as follows:-
January meeting – Helicopter meeting – thank you to all heli members who brought along their models, it is always good to see different models especially to fixed wing members who may not normally be able to inspect these machines at close hand and speak to the operators for advice!!
February meeting- fixed wing meeting – Peter Christy will kindly be bringing his radio transmitter testing gear. This will enable members to have their transmitters checked for correct operation. Please bring your transmitters along if you would like them checked.
March – club bring-and-buy meeting
June – 1st weekend pencilled as fun day
Peter Christy advised that there have been problems reported on Futaba 2.4GHZ transmitters. It appears that some units have left the factory with a default factory frequency, rather than a unique code. This in short means that these units can transmit between each other, which will cause the obvious malfunctions and possible dangerous control of airborne models. Anyone who has recently purchased one of these units is advised to have the factory set frequency checked at their local model shop who will have been sent a test kit by the manufacturer.
Anyone flying with a 2.4GHZ transmitter must place a black peg on the pegboard to advise other flyers that 2.4GHZ frequency is being used as per BMFA rules.
Peter Christy suggested that as demonstrated at other clubs, that the pegboard on both flying sites should have the post-code of the flying field painted on to assist reporting the location of any accident easier and ensure swifter response of the emergency services.
Watford Wayfarers are proud to announce that we have two members selected to represent
Those present:-
Paul Robinson – Club Chairman
Peter Guiver – Club Treasurer
Apologies:-
Arthur Peacop – club secretary
Health and Safety.
No accidents to report.
Flying Sites.
Helicopter Field :-
Site being used when weather permits – no other news.
Fixed Wing field:-
Site being used when weather permits – no other news.
Website.
Website now operating correctly, no problems reported – please send all photos to Steve hill – e-mail details on website.
Events/Suggestions.
Preliminary events for next year were advised as follows:-
January meeting – Helicopter meeting
February meeting- fixed wing meeting
March – club bring and buy meeting
June – 1st weekend pencilled as fun day
Comittee members were thanked for their contributions throughout the year.
Thanks were given to Ron Moulton, who arranged/obtained prizes for the prize draw – there were numerous winners, and prizes were agreed to be much more agreeable to both fixed wing and heli members this year
Well done to all who won prizes this year – should you wish to be remembered in the hall of fame please remember toget your names engraved before handing the trophy back next year!!
Trophy winners were:-
Most improved Heli flyer –
Best Heli crash –
Best Heli model –
Most improved flyer – Arthur Peacop
Best fixed wing crash – Arthur Peacop
Best built and flown model – Paul Robinson, P51 Mustang
Those present:-
Paul Robinson – Club Chairman
Arthur Peacop – Club Secretary
Apologies:-
Peter Guiver – Club Treasurer
Health and Safety.
No accidents to report.
It was highlighted to members that should they report an accident to the BMFA, they may be asked whether they are responsible for the accident. Whilst members should not admit liability at the field to any third party (if indeed they are liable), they should not be afraid to disclose an account of true events to the BMFA. The BMFA are not looking to apportion blame to the individual and avoid paying out on any claim, they are merely trying to establish who is to blame so that the claim can be settled. Should the member not admit liability (if liable) then the case may drag on for some time, costing additional money until liability can be proved and the claim settled. The members BMFA insurance will settle any claims made against them, not the member personally!!
Flying Sites.
Helicopter Field :-
The rubbish problem raised at the last meeting seems not to have recurred. Memebrs are again politely reminded to take all rubbish home with them.
Fixed Wing field:-
The club was made aware that the farmer’s family have sold the farm. Whilst we are trying to make contact with relevant people, it is possible that we will be asked to leave once contracts are exchanged.
We have made inroads with the farms neighbour and may have a possible patch, although this needs to be discussed further once the situation is definate. We will advise more information when able, however as always, members are asked to keep eyes peeled for any suitable new flying sites.
The committee has been investigating alternative sites, and would like to thank, Arthur Peacop, Peter Guiver and Ron Moulton for their time on this
Website.
Steve Hill advised that the website should now be operating correctly after the servers were changed by the web company.
Events/Suggestions.
It was suggested that a spot landing competition be held at the AGM using a Picco Z helicopter - £1 in each entrant and the winner takes all!! Details will be finalised on the night.
Will all members who currently have trophies please return these at the AGM for reissue to new nominees.
Members are reminded that there are great prizes on offer – tickets are on sale from Arthur Peacop on the night, £5 strips. Details of prizes have been emailed and are on the website. We would like to thank Ron for obtaining these for us – Thanks Ron!!!!
Those present:-
Paul Robinson – Club Chairman
Peter Guiver – Club Treasurer
Apologies:-
Arthur Peacop – Club Secretary
Health and Safety.
No accidents to report.
Flying Sites.
Helicopter Field :-
One member has reported that rubbish had been found at the patch – this consisted of broken rotor blades and cable ties which are normally used to tie training aids to helicopter models whilst learning. There was also soft drink cans left. This is a blatant disregard for other people, and will not be tolerated.
The club politely reminds all members to take any rubbish home with them as this not only spoils the surroundings for others but can be dangerous to animals and livestock. This will give us a bad press which we can ill afford!!
Fixed Wing field:-
The club was made aware of the ongoing situation with the flying field. The farmers family have put the farm up for closed bids – until we know of the outcome we are unable to plan for our future, however all members are asked to keep any eye open for any possible flying sites.
Website.
Steve Hill advised that due to a changeover with the servers by the web company, the website is experiencing glitches – this should be resolved in the next few days once all information has been transferred to the new server.
Events/Suggestions.
Heli events – there are ongoing heli competition dates which have been posted on the AHA website.
Fixed wing events are listed in the RCME website.
Peter Christy, the clubs BMFA representative is up for nomination for his post of RC powertech committee member. Would the club members please nominate him using the form included within the BMFA news magazine.
Club members are reminded that the AGM is in two meetings time, and that any one interested in the officers or committee role be made known by then to enable votes to be cast.
Those present: - Arthur Peacop – Club Secretary
Paul Roberts – Heli. Rep.
Apologies: - Paul Robinson and Peter Guiver.
Health and Safety. No accidents to report from either Fixed Wing or Heli sections.
Flying Sites. Heli field, Paul Roberts advised that the entryway to the field had now had all the shrubs and trees cut back by its members to prevent damage to their cars.
Fixed Wing Field, there is no further news as to the sale of the farm by the farmer’s Sister. Every member is asked to keep their eyes open as to any possible sites, and report back to the Committee members so that they can be investigated.
Heli Flying Competion Results. Paul Roberts gave full details of the various competions that Heli members had taken part in and full details have now been posted on the Club Webpage in the Heli section.
Grand Raffle:- Further details of this years Raffle were given to the members present. Tickets were made available but as there were no takers this may have to be put off until next year. The normal yearly Raffle that takes place at the AGM will be discussed at the next Committee meeting.
Training Sessions: After the informal part of the meeting a long discussion took place a to how help could be given to the Fixed Wing Trainer, as a number of new members have requested to join the Club. It was suggested that a time on Training days should be set aside solely for training, say the first three hours on the specified training days. This matter will be raised at the next committee meeting after discussion with Gary Field.
Any matters that the members wish to be brought to the attention of the Committee should be sent in writing to the Club Secretary prior to the next Committee meeting that will be arranged for the 24th October 2007.
Those present:-
Paul Robinson – Club Chairman
Peter Guiver – Club Treasurer
Apologies:-
Arthur Peacop
Health and Safety.
No accidents to report.
Flying Sites.
Helicopter Field :-
Paul Roberts advised that the issue with the grass cutter had been resolved and that the Heli patch was now being attended to fortnightly.
Fixed Wing field:-
It was reported that some members are still not wearing their identification badges. Can all members ensure that they have their badges on when flying – this is to ensure that we all know that you are members!
It is also essential that any non member wishing to fly gain prior authorisation from the committee - we cannot stress the importance of this enough. Should there be an accident, and the flier has no insurance or authorisation the consequences do not bear thinking about!! – NO UNAUTHORISED FLYERS AT BOVINGDON.
Website.
Steve Hill has set up a Heli website, which is linked from the fixed wing site. However he requires some guidance on what is to go on the website and has requested that any photos, etc be sent to him via his e-mail address which is shown on the fixed wing web site. Could all Heli members please send pictures or anything else they wish to see on their website to Steve on his contact e-mail address.
Events/Suggestions.
Mick Wiltshere informed us of his recent trip to Old Warden to assist with introducing young children to radio controlled flight. He advised that some 170 children each had approximately 5 minutes of flying (which is more than his faithful Radio Queen achieved he informs us!)
The day also saw action from full sized aircraft which performed limbo flying and flour bombing. Hopefully the day will have planted the seed of enthusiasm into many youngsters due to the efforts of the volunteers – well done Mick.
Any other business.
Pete Christie’s term as an elected member on the BMFA Powertechnical comittee is soon to come to an end. Peter is happy to continue, however needs to be nominated by the club for this to happen – unless any members object, the club will be nominating Peter to continue via the correct BMFA channels.
Mick Wilshire also advises that his term as the club southern area BMFA representative is also up for renewal and again Mick advises that he will be happy to continue if this is the club’s wish. Unless any members object the club object we will be putting Mick forward for this role.
The Club would like to take the opportunity to thank both Peter and Mick for their time and devotion to these roles. As I’m sure the club’s members will appreciate, without volunteers for these roles there would ultimately be no governing body pursuing our best interest’s as modellers and in all likely-hood, no clubs!!
Those present:-
Paul Robinson – Club Chairman
Arthur Peacop – Club Secretary
Apologies:-
Peter Guiver
Health and Safety.
No accidents to report.
Flying Sites.
Helicopter Field :-
Paul Roberts advised that a “No Parking” sign was now fixed to the gate to the helicopter site.
Paul Roberts also advised that they were having problems with the person currently employed to cut the grass at the site, who was proving difficult to get hold of. Paul will further attempt to chase and arrange the grass cutting but will also look for an alternative grass cutter should this ultimately be required.
Fixed Wing field:-
It was agreed that all members must have a disc with their name on, which must be left on the pegboard whilst flying. This will enable other members to determine who has what peg should the need arise.
If any members have 2.4GHZ transmitters, black ribbons should be placed on the arial.
It has been noticed recently that some members tend to hang around on the patch after take off. Once your model is up, you must immediately move back and into the flight box – not stand along the edge of the patch as this is dangerous and obstructs vision for other pilots!
It has also been noticed that some members take off with improperly adjusted engines etc which necessitates repeated landing and “fiddling” on the patch. Inevitably this means that there is someone on the patch and in the way of any airborne models which could be dangerous – if there is doubt that your engine is not running properly, this must be addressed before take off and in the pits, not on the patch!!
Geoff has approved our request to cut a new strip across the patch to assist with crosswind flying – final positioning will be agreed by members on site.
Website.
Eddy Oliver still to forward details to Steve Hill to link the both the Helicopter website from the fixed wing site. Paul Roberts will chase.
Events/Suggestions.
Fun Day
Details of the fun day line up and schedules were discussed at the meeting, hard copies of the proposed schedule were distributed and pasted onto the web for members information.
We look forward to seeing members there – Good luck!!
Having spoken to the Heli members present at this meeting, it appears that many members have withdrawn from the fun day and it is unlikely that any heli members will be attending, despite the arrangements and date having been made to accommodate them.
Bearing in mind the original concept of the fun day, which was to bring both sides of the club together, this is extremely disappointing.
Any other business.
None.
Watford Wayfarer’s Club Meeting :- APRIL 2007
Those present:-
Paul Robinson – Club Chairman
Arthur Peacop – Club Secretary
Peter Guiver – Club Treasurer
Apologies:-
Health and Safety.
No accidents to report.
Flying Sites.
Helicopter Field :-
Paul Roberts advised that a “No Parking” sign was in the process of being made for the flying site gate.
Fixed Wing field:-
It would appear that news of our long ridiculed and pathetic windsock has reached far and wide across our beautiful planet. To this end, Ron Moulton’s brother Peter who had just arrived all the way from Canada presented the club with a brand new windsock (in Canadian colours of course). This was greatly appreciated, as now the members will be able to see the windsock as they hit it, and we will be able to see it as it is towed skywards. Thanks Peter!
It was reported to the committee that a some visitors appeared whilst members were flying one Sunday – whilst the visitor’s seemed to have a genuine interest in the models, they had parked their cars on the concrete adjacent the patch and despite being advised to move in case of an accident, did not do so. We are unsure who these visitors were and will ask the farmer as they appeared to be locals.
Could all members please be aware of any members of the public who may turn up to watch – whilst we do not discourage people from taking an interest, we must be aware of our responsibilities regarding safety. Visitors should be advised of the dangers, be restricted to the pits areas and be supervised. They should also be asked to park any transport within the safe areas. Should there be any safety doubts, model flying must not take place until the visitors have left.
It will be appreciated that policing of visitors to the farm is extremely difficult, and we will politely speak to the farmer to discuss the possibility of placing some safety signs on the approaches to our patch.
Website.
Eddy Oliver still to forward details to Steve Hill to link the both the Helicopter website from the fixed wing site. Paul Roberts will chase.
Events/Suggestions.
Fun Day
The fun day draws closer!! – having discussed the fun day, it was agreed that the day would be informal, with a start time of 10AM. We expect that some normal flying/practice bombing will take place until lunchtime, when the BBQ will be lit and hopefully everyone that wants to come will by then be there!!
The fixed wing competition will be target bombing, with voucher prizes for the winners – this will be carried out in heats, the details to be finalised at the next meeting.
Helicopter competition to be finalised at the next meeting.
Any other business.
Club Raffle –
This was received with enthusiasm; tickets and prizes will be announced at forthcoming meetings.
Richard Rawle kindly supplied several items for a raffle on club night, tickets were eagerly snapped up with proceeds going towards the club. Thanks Richard.
Club Trainer –
Ron Moulton presented the club with his club trainer – an older model which had been extremely well built, but which required covering. This model invited much interest from the members who eagerly discussed how it should be fitted out and what colours it should be dressed in. The intention was to fit the model out at club nights, however due to the added generosity of Richard Rawle who provided a “Zippo” kit, it was decided that this would be built and demonstrated to the members and that Ron’s trainer would be completed and introduced as a club trainer with (almost) immediate effect!.
Mick Wiltshere kindly offered an engine for the trainer, and also to cover the wing of the with some suitable fabric covering, the initial thoughts being that the top pf the wing would be red and the bottom white to suit visibility. Richard Rawle also kindly offered to paint the fuselage which had been sealed by the original builder.
Several offers of radio gear were offered, so it won’t be long before she’s airborne.
Club “Bring and Buy” Sale.
Reminder – the “Bring and Buy” sale is at the next (MAY) meeting. Bring along your old models and equipment to trade to other members, and go home with as much as you came with!
Please bear in mind that you are selling to your fellow members, so price your gear accordingly.
Any items bought along will be at the owners risk, any damages/losses cannot be covered by the Club.
Note – this sale is held by and for club members only .
Look forward to seeing you all at the next meeting !!