Today we were hosting a visit by the Met Office (Exeter) to see if their forecast would result in conditions living up to expectations. Ed Borlase has been doing a lot of background work to facilitate this visit. Three members formed the group, Aidan McGivern (Presenter), Simon Hammett (Cameraman) and Caroline Patterson (Strategic Communications Manager). A number of volunteer members arrived to assist with the days proceedings.
A slow start due to cameras and sound systems being fitted in the K13 under the guidance of Colin Boyd to ensure all was secure and safe. In the clubhouse I gave the usual morning brief with my interpretation of the weather was followed by Scratch giving a visitor safety brief. Aiden then stepped up to give his Met Office brief of the days weather.
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| K13 FGR is wired for sound and video. |
Following the usual parachute briefing, presenter Aiden was introduced to the K13 and strapped in. Final checks done it was time for Lights, Camera and Action.
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| And safely back. |
After Aiden recounted his experience to camera where he expressed his amazement how the forecast translated into the 3D environment of the sky, we got ready for a second flight.
Scratch came from the winch to fly with Caroline. Her first experience was a launch failure, but undeterred took off with Scratch for a second attempt. Successful this time they enjoyed 22 minutes soaring.
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| Caroline being briefed by Steve. |
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| Caroline gets her certificate from Scratch. |
The met office crew and Ed disappeared to the clubhouse to undertake some more recording. This enabled the helpers to be rewarded with some flying. Robin Wilson and Val flew with me in the K13 whilst Steve Fletcher, Martin Broadway and Malcolm W-J flew the K8. All enjoyed flights in excess of 20 minutes.
Today we have received this message from Caroline and Ed:-
Aidan and I were just saying today feels very ‘back to normal’. Shame we can’t have an adventure like yesterday every day although my heart might struggle with too many failed launches. 😊... I enjoyed reliving the 360 footage when I got home – some of it is hilarious particularly the sharp ascent/descent footage – I appear to be laughing throughout. I just want to thank you again massively from the three of us. I’m certain we’ll have a great final cut and look forward to sharing it with you, Peter and the others. I’m just sorry Rich had to miss out.
Thank you to all who helped out today giving the usual DGS welcome and friendly atmosphere resulting in a very successful experience for all.
Peter Howarth
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