White Sheet History – an update

Jess Nicholls and I (Chairman) were at the slope (topically Morgans) over the weekend.

Mr Cooper was visiting (owns Retro-Modeller). Although now living in Boston, Lincs, he did originate from the area, indeed, his Father was one of five Council tenant farmers (White farmhouses visible from the slope) The 5 farmers had communal grazing rights on all of White Sheet Down

One of the Farmers was Rob Morgan, who did originally object to Model fliers but was persuaded to the contrary by Mr. Cooper’s Father in around 1970. Thus model flying got the official go-ahead and also explains to me why the slope is called Morgans even though it is now farmed by Mr Neish. Of course, Spencers bowl is named after the Spencer family who farm below the SW bowl, whilst Cowards bowl is farmed by the Coward family near Mere.

Thanks to Jess.

D Bradfield

White Sheet History – Peter Fell – February 2021

Memories of White Sheet RFC 1966 -1976

Following my initial visit in 2019 and on my return to flying at White Sheet in 2020 after 30 years absence I was encouraged by the warm welcome I received from the Chairman David Bradfield and members present. It also was apparent that the club was thriving with an active membership and a busy calendar of events.

In conversation I was asked by David if I could write a few words on the history of the club to which I readily agreed and said would get in touch with Keith Thomas the founder of White Sheet RFC.

Well here goes with some happy memories of flying at White Sheet.

Good slope soaring locations like Crooks Peak, Win Green and the White Sheet downs have been the preferred local flying sites for many years and for those modellers who can recall the 1960’s and 70’s will remember the likes of Eric Poole, David Bond, Pete Slater, Brian Cooper, Slim Sear, Pete Fell, Robin and Chris Saunders, Rowland Hackett, Dave Pederick, George Chambers and Alan Brocklehurst from the Westland Aero modellers club based at Yeovil.

However, more importantly the local group of modellers namely Keith Thomas, Bill Gibbs, Derek Stone, Pat Haxell ,Mike Cooper, Ken Herridge, Pat Suter, Harold Lidbitter, Chris Wynn, Chris Williams, Vic Grist, Tony Doman, Chris Morton and Jess Nicholls to name a few were also regular flyers at White Sheet during the 1970’s.

Current and past members who were active the 1970’s will recall the days of 27 MHz Radio, CB Radio and sharing the flying sites with the new sport and potential hazardous hobby of Hang Gliding!

The inherent risks of flying model aircraft using the same airspace as Hang gliders was a great concern to the model flyers which resulted in the formation of the White Sheet RFC in 1975 lead by Keith Thomas who gave the club an identity and created the acclaimed Ghost club logo.

Having established an identity and a working relationship with the National Trust and local farmers the club steadily gained recognition and popularity with modellers in the surrounding area and beyond.

Initially Slope Soaring was the primary activity of the club however there was a need to provide some structure and encouragement to fly safely and members were encouraged to take part in the friendly competitions that had been developed by the Westland club to provide a personal challenge, discipline and achievement for members who wished to advance their flying skills.

The local Red Lion Pub Kilmington was also a welcome retreat from the wet and windy slopes and provided the perfect base for Club meetings and post flying sessions chat with Beer and refreshments on tap.

Social events for members and family were also an important part of the club activities with Bungee flying, Bonfires and BBQs hosted by Brian and Wendy Cooper (Proprietor of the Digi Hangar Model Shop, Yeovil.) at their home near Blandford Forum.

Jess had his own flying patch on his farm where members could either fly motor gliders or aero tow using the J3 Piper Cub built by Cliff and hosted the annual club aero tow and BBQ event.

The annual Christmas Dinner and prize giving at the Butt of Sherry in Mere or the Grange at Oborne was the norm for many years.

As previously mentioned friendly competitions were a regular occurrence on the slope which included Loops and Spot, Pylon racing, Nominated Manoeuvres, Slalom, Somerset Trophy (Loops and spot), Time and spot and latterly the Woodstock Flying Wing challenge.

For those windless summer day’s members and their families retreated to Lower Barn Farm to enjoy some relaxing flat field Thermal and Multi Task flying.

Participating member’s achievements from each of the many varied competitions were accumulated towards the prize of winning the prestigious Keith Thomas “Tallis” trophy presented at the annual club dinner with family and friends.

Building and flying Scale Gliders was also a keen interest to members and the White Sheet club has attracted the skills of some of the best Scale modellers in the UK namely Pat Teakle, Chris Williams, and Cliff Charlesworth who have all been an inspiration to many members.

Initially, the Scale Competitions were limited to club Members however in 1980 the event became an open event and attracted many visitors and I am pleased to say it still continues today under the leadership of the prolific Scale Glider enthusiast Chris Williams.

How many members remember Sean Walbank the very keen and competitive member who being a talented School teacher at Sherborne School had the skill and dedication to produce the famous White Sheet Magazine which was produced solely by him and attracted a worldwide circulation!

To conclude, I would like to thank Keith and Rowland for their memories and contribution and hope members present and past members have enjoyed these vintage ramblings of the early years at White Sheet. However, if you feel there are any inaccuracies or omissions please don’t hesitate to contact me.

Best Regards

Peter Fell.

M. 07973147177

6th January 2021 Important Update

BMFA COVID LEGISLATION & RC Flying 06/01/2021

England — TIER 4

The legislation relating to COVID-19 restrictions in place from January 6th has been published.

All areas of England have now been placed in to Tier 4.

The Health Protection (Coronavirus, Restrictions) (All Tiers) (England) Regulations 2020 have also been amended.

Whilst outdoor exercise is still allowed, either alone or with one other person, we are now no longer permitted to leave our homes to visit public outdoor places for the purposes of open air recreation. The definition of public outdoor places has also been amended and now no longer includes outdoor sportsgrounds or sports facilities.

Outdoor sportsgrounds or sports facilities (which includes model flying club sites and BMFA Buckminster) have also been added to the list of venues that must close.

Guidance relating to other areas of the UK remains the same as in our update of 22/12/2020 seehttps://bmfa.org/News/News-Page/ArticleID/2707/COVID-19-Regulations-Update-22-12-2020

BMFA insurance remains in place when flying lawfully and the personal accident cover is in place should you do something untoward to yourself in the workshop. The day to day work protecting model flying and assisting members and clubs is ongoing and the BMFA office remains manned and open during the lockdown period.

British Model Flying Association

The Society of Model Aeronautical Engineers Limited T/A

F3F 2021

January 3rd

February 7th

March 7th

May 30th

June 13th

English Open 21st and 22nd August

Covid secure where necessary

Scale Days 2021

March 14th, reserve 28th

April 11th, reserve 25th

May 9th, reserve 23rd

June 20th, reserve 27th

July 11th, reserve 25th

August 8th CANCELLED, Next day for your diary – reserve date, August 29th

September 12th, reserve 26th

New Covid Rules from 2/12/2020

From the BMFA …..

The Government have released updated guidance that comes into effect from 2^nd December when local restriction tiers will replace the current National restrictions in England.

Based on this guidance, and subject to Parliamentary confirmation, Model Flying Clubs in all Tiers can re-open; however, you are expected to operate in a Covid secure way. See https://clubsupport.bmfa.uk/6-steps-to-covid-secure

The rule of 6 also applies in all Tiers and you should not organise gatherings of more than 6 people. However, should more than 6 people independently attend a flying site this does not appear to be a breach of the regulations provided that they do not mingle.

Members should avoid travelling in to and out of Tier 3 (Very High Alert) areas.

White Sheet Down is currently in Tier 2. All Tiers will be reviewed on 16th December apparently

CAA exemption for A and B holders

This one runs to 31/12/20 when it should be replaced with a new Euro one

https://publicapps.caa.co.uk/docs/33/ORS4No1395.pdf

How it all started ….. Pics and words to come as and when ….

Keith Thomas and Chris Wynn with Pecker II, KK Ivory Gull and Graupner KA6

Keith Thomas Pecker II low pass – later given to Chris Wynn as a wedding present

The 2020 Scale Day

The Scale DayWith the bug obliterating the 2020 fixture list it was extremely heartening that the Scale Day ran in September. CW words follow, together with a selection of his fabulous pics

On a separate note, some email providers have tightened their spam rules, so if this ends up in your junk/spam, please let me know, and, add the sending email address to your directory.

CW Words of WisdomWSRFC SCALE FLY-IN SEPTEMBER 13^TH Under the twin threats of the ire of the Weather Gods, and the next-day clamp down of Covid restrictions, this event was pretty much star-crossed before it began. Imagine the all-round surprise, then, when the most favourable forecast in a decade was thrust upon us. 9-14mph, direct on the SW bowl, and no vertical dampness on any horizon!The Gremlins got in early, though, when the 150 or so emails sent out to declare the event very much On via the Mailchimp app, all seemed to end up in everybody’s Spam box. Perhaps a blessing in disguise, as a very healthy 20 or so fliers turned up for the festivities, comfortably below the statutory 30 max allowed by the soon-to-be outdated Covid regs. Of course, nobody was that surprised that the forecast had been overly optimistic regarding the reliability of the wind, so as far as the lift went, it was a case of ‘the Lord giveth, and the Lord taketh away… This kept a few gliders on the ground, but when the Lord Gaveth, he gaveth big, and some great flying was to be had. Pat Teakle’s masterful land out in ploughed field earned him the Sub-Standard-Hat-of-Commiseration. (The hat was sub-standard, not Pat) Everyone was well-behaved and most of the models went home in one piece so, despite the Sub-Standardness of 2020, not the best of years, at least this event gave us a glimpse of what-used-to-be…cw

before we get to the pics …..Thanks to CW and All for running the day and managing the ’30’.

Thanks also to CW for volunteering to act as Scale Secretary Supremo for 2021

In case you haven’t seen it, there is a really useful CW article on aero – towing in the current issue of RCM&E, plus, the closing pics in the mag of some Petrels.

Am glad that the hats got some use, am guessing that CW is keeping the rest for future land-out commiserations.

Also good to hear that our new member, and examiner, Jonathan Smith has volunteered for future retrieval duties following his yomp to pick up Pat’s Skylark

David

Level 3 Update – 17th September 2020

Revised Level 3 Flying Restrictions from 14/9/2020 until further notice

Your Committee have reviewed updated BMFA advice and advise the following for members and visiting fliers. This is in addition to the advice already supplied about ensuring your fitness to go to the Down and fly.

It’s a game of two halves, everyday flying and competitions/events

Everyday Flying:

We cannot provide a person at the slope at all times to ensure compliance with social distancing with the result that the default number of people from different households allowed to fly at any one time is 6. In order for this to happen it is important that you email name, date, time in and time out to our track and trace email database at:

tandt@whitesheet.org.uk

We will keep an eye on it and if it is looking busy we will try and let you know.

This data will be kept for 21 days for NHS use if there is an outbreak. It is also important that you also email the above address if you develop symptoms after visiting the Down so that we can inform NHS.

Some members (actually, just Midweek Mike and me) have volunteered to be covid policemen at the time they are at the slope, so it may be possible to run two groups of 6 providing track and trace data and social distancing happens.

Given that social distancing is required at all times, we suggest a flight-line max of 4 people as this should ensure clarity of communication between fliers over the 6 metres

Competitions and Events:

We will do a number of things before hosting an event:

1/ Risk assessment

2/ BMFA questionnaire

3/ Provide a volunteer covid policeman/woman for the duration

4/ Make use of the tandt@whitesheet.org.ukto provide registration and track and trace address.

Once again, we will opt for a flight line max of 4 people and ask that any covid positivity post event is reported to the above email.

Please do use the WSRFC WhatsApp group to let other fliers know of your intended visit.

Please do look and follow the advice given by BMFA on their interweb, our advice, and of course the national orgainisations (Government/NHS/PHE)

Finally, as with any prospective flight, if in doubt – Don’t

What 3 Words

The What3words app can be used to aid location in times of emergency. It can also be used for navigation by anyone who has the app on their phone or device. The relevant words for each of our main slopes will be posted, in this case, starting with the SW bowl, they are stressed.reinvest.clash

Had to chuckle as these words can describe some of the emotions that go through our minds when we are contemplating flying.

NE Slope – reforming.continued.tins

Morgans – to be posted

Ho-Hum, back to level 3

6 Person Group – Changes to Regulations

Whilst we await further clarification from governing bodies, BMFA etc, it appears that we will have to adapt to a 6 person maximum Group on the slope from 14th September.

The obvious questions arise, including, is that many groups of six or just one? How does this affect F3F/Open Slopes etc? Only time and work will clarify these points.

The good news is that it is extremely rare for there to be six of us together at any one time, but for now please follow the various (if conflicting) guidance which has bought us back to where we were immediately after lockdown, i.e. the slope is open but keep to 6 person maximum and wait to set up until someone leaves if there are 6 there already.

We can use the White Sheet WhatsApp group to inform others if we intend to visit the slope. This will give everybody a heads-up. If you are not already on it, text me with your name on 07711 824484 and I will add you to the group. We also have a Facebook group that could do the same thing White Sheet RFC.

Our covid advice is on our interweb and is in addition to the latest social distancing and cleanliness advice elsewhere.

Open Slopes, Scale Days, F3F and Other Events

We have issued various advice since the start of lockdown, from “No Fly” to “Turn Up, Fly, Go Home” whilst always urging members to follow the over-arching advice that emanates from Government and other bodies. Indeed the BMFA generated the “Turn Up …” which is still a good one.

We reiterate this advice and ask that people use their common sense in its application. Health and safety both on the ground and in the air is a two way street. Whilst we will provide some sanitization facilities, it is also incumbent on members to follow social distancing and sanitization guidelines, including provision of your own PPE and anti-bac. This is particularly appropriate for touch points over which we have no control, the gates for instance.

At events prior to the bug we have always kept a log of attendees. This continues and takes on additional relevance as it provides our track and trace information. We therefore ask that you provide your name and contact telephone number to whoever is organizing an event (that includes you, Pike)

We do ask that you observe proper distance when setting up your kit and communicating with other members. Clearly, another member, or their glider, is a touch point, so please exercise caution even if it is the latest bright, shiny scale or Baudis model!

Events are by their nature, Outdoors, and we understand this to currently entail a maximum attendance of 30 persons. With many members shielding we have not got anywhere close to this number this year, but do not be surprised if the organizer suggests that we are at max and urges attendees to act accordingly.

It is important that any visitors to an event are made aware of the above, whether fliers or observers.

Anyhow – this is as of 2nd September, it could all change and we will endeavor to review accordingly.

PS – apologies for the z in sanitisation – Microsoft keeps thinking we are all American

White Sheet and Covid-19 (LEVEL THREE)

A return to the skies

Under Level 3, White Sheet is open for members to return to airborne operations.

Please keep in mind and adhere to all government rules relating to the coronavirus, social distancing and use of PPE etc

Further to this, WSRFC recommends a flightline maximum of 4 people at two meters apart to ensure continual communication amongst those flying.

Stay safe, stay well and enjoy flying again.

Southern Winter league F3f rd 5, Sunday feb 23rd

Weather call (posted 9.50am sat 22nd) ;
Sadly due to various unfavourable forecasts this Competition is Cancelled

The Whitesheet slopes will therefore be open as per usual, I very much hope that the afternoon brightens enough for all our members to enjoy if but just a short session on our slopes

RAF Zeals – a note on it’s history – note the glider bit!

http://whitesheet.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/RAF-Zeals-web.pdf

Club Night – 2020 dates

We are going to try the Spread Eagle at Stourton/Stourhead following the closure of The Somerset Arms at Maiden Bradley. Dates are:

January 8th

February 12th

March 11th

~~April 8th~~

~~May 13th~~

~~June 10th~~

~~July 8th~~

August 12th

September 9th

October 8th

November – pre AGM round-up – 12th

And of course, the AGM on Saturday 21st November at The Dolphin in Mere

BMFA F3F and English Open Dates for 2020

No doubt Stu will add proper commentary to this, but in order to get the ball rolling, here are some additional dates for your diary

26th April – BMFA F3F at White Sheet

21st June – BMFA F3F at White Sheet

Last, but not least, over the weekend of 22nd and 23rd August 2020 WSRFC will stage The English Open! The Scale reserve day is now 16th August.

2020 Scale Days at White Sheet Down

First a report from Chris Williams on 2019:

Obviously, as we all know, Brexit disturbed the Weather Gods to such an extent that they forgot to order the rain and sent only wind instead. With four less-than-perfect forecasts and one that was unbelievably good, it was of course the latter that saw the unexpected rain. Nevertheless, a record turnout on that day broke all the records for attendance, necessitating a 7-up rule to avoid the possibility of mid-airs. The downside of such numbers meant that we had to restrict the scale fly-in days to scale models only, for which I feel it necessary to apologise to those that do not fly scale models.

There was some epic fun during the season: vertical launches, tree perching, fuselages turning brown, and one inadvertent overflying of the pits that really frightened the horses!

I would like to nominate myself for the Person-Who-Forgot-To-Bring-The-Most- Glider-Parts this year: I doubt anyone can beat my tally…

Good to see that Geof Crew was awarded the prestigious “Launcher of the Year 2019” at the AGM – keep up the good work

With five of the six scheduled events run, this has to be some sort of record, and the great thing is, Bradders has chosen the dates for next year, so if normality returns I can dodge the blame. Let’s hope for his sake that this is not the case…

The Dates for 2020 are:

March 8th is CANCELLED, we now move to the reserve date of March 29th, Hopefully!

~~April 12th, reserve of 19th~~

~~May 10th, reserve of 24th~~

~~June 14th, reserve of 28th~~

~~July 12th, reserve of 26th~~

August 9th, reserve of 16th

September 13th, reserve of 27th

That’s potentially 7 events!

Tests, Committee and 2019 Awards

We suggest that members use the BMFA to comply with regulations, it is available at https://rcc.bmfa.uk/rcc Copy and paste the link to the browser on your interweb and away you go

To do the test you will need, your bmfa number, your bmfa portal email address and your postcode

1/ access the above link and take the test if you do NOT have BMFA A / B test certificates (or equivalent LMA etc)

2/ take the on-line competency test via the above link.

3/ The on-line system gives you a list of any incorrect answers together with suggested corrections.

4/ Once passed, an email will be sent to you with a copy of your pass certificate.

5/ Download the certificate and then upload it onto your BMFA portal under the achievements section

If any members are experiencing difficulty, or can’t, do the online test, please let me know and we will do our best to assist.

We will have also to do two online opt-ins on the portal at some stage so that the BMFA can upload our data to the CAA.

Then pay your £9 registration fee to the BMFA together with your membership renewal, which remains unchanged from this year.

Mike Bleathman will send out a mailchimp email later to announce the dates/plans for the ‘A’ test day(s) to be held at White Sheet. Whilst we won’t get this done before the competency deadline of 30th November, it should obviate the need for repeat on-line test in the future.

Mike can be contacted at vice@whitesheet.org.uk

Committee changes

After much sterling service, Chris Lamming stood down as Chairman at the AGM, with Mike Bleathman now fulfilling the role of Vice Chairman and me picking up the Chair position. (contactable at chairman@whitesheet.org.uk)

We are extremely fortunate that Chris Williams, Den Larking, Ian Duff, Jess Nicholls and Stu Wallace offered themselves for re-election in their existing roles.

Full AGM minutes will be posted on the WS interweb in due course.

In other AGM news:

the 2020 calendars were available and given to members at the meet
The Ahi prize for 5 event attendances was won by Jeff Crew, who kindly put it “back in” and the next name out of the hat was Pete Cushion
Some beanies and caps were also raffled
The 2019 Vice awards were as follows:
Launcher of the Year – Jeff Crew
Land-out of the Year – Richard Edmunds
Fastest Time /F3F award – William Fourie
Last man standing – Andrew Beaven
Catch of the Year – Tim Brocklehurst
Bacon of the Year – Mike Bleathman
Cake of the Year – Mrs Mike

Last but no means least – Tech Support 2019, at the request of members, the Tech Support was awarded to Graeme Mahoney for the help and knowledge that he gives to all fliers.

TWO CAA exemptions are attached

One allows registration via the BMFA membership and portal. The other allows exemption from proficiency tests if you have passed BMFA ‘A’ or ‘B’ tests.

see:

http://publicapps.caa.co.uk/modalapplication.aspx?catid=1&pagetype=65&appid=11&mode=detail&id=9263

and

http://publicapps.caa.co.uk/modalapplication.aspx?catid=1&pagetype=65&appid=11&mode=detail&id=9261

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . NEWSFLASH . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

White Sheet Radio Flying Club

**** 2019 AGM ****

White Sheet Radio Flying Club invite all members to the
2019 Annual General Meeting

This Saturday

16th November 2019

14:30

The Dolphin Inn, Gillingham. Dorset

Agenda

~~~~~~~~~~~~

Opening remarks/welcome
Apologies
Minutes of previous AGM.
Can be viewed via the following link:
http://whitesheet.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/White-Sheet-Radio-Flying-Club-AGM-2018-Minutes-SW-edit-1-1.pdf
Matters arising from the Minutes
Presentation of annual report
Presentation of Accounts
Set the Annual Subscription for the ensuing year
Consider and adopt WSRFC Handbook Amendments for 2019-2020
Select and approve charity for support in 2020
Announce dates for 2020 Open Slopes
Scale meetings report & Announce dates for 2020
English Open F3F report & Announce date for 2020
BMFA F3F report & Announce dates at White Sheet for 2020
Elections of Management Committee/Office Bearers
Motions to be put to the AGM
Closing remarks

Followed by

White Sheet RFC 2019 Events “Qualifier’s” – Prize Draw

&

White Sheet RFC Annual AGM Prize Draw

And finally

just for fun:

The…….. White Sheet RFC “Vice Special” Annual Awards

Presented by your favourite awards presenter……

Mr…….

Mike
Bleathman

👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏

Eat, drink and be merry…

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . End . . . . . . . . . . . . .

CAA DRES Registrations and Tests now available.

Registration & Test

New regulations regarding all Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV)’s 250g -20kg come into force 30th November 2019. Please refer to latest BMFA news for updates

Everyone wishing to fly model aircraft will have to:

Pass – Register – Label

Pass an online (or offline hard copy) test to get a Flyer ID if you want to fly a drone or model aircraft.
Register for an Operator ID if you’re responsible for a drone or model aircraft
Label any drones and model aircraft you’re responsible for with your Operator ID

Tests – Flyer ID

CAA DRES Test is now live. http://register-drones.caa.co.uk/
Tests are free.
Every three years all USAV operators (Unmaned Small Aerial Vehicles) need to sit, and pass, an online test to qualify for a Flyer ID
Minimum age: None, but children under 13 can only register with a parent or guardian present.
For those without internet access a hard copy of the test will be available. (Details yet to be confirmed)
Exemption from the Test for those holding a BMFA proficiency scheme “A” Certificate has been agreed.

Important information for BMFA members

BMFA members will not be required to take the DRES test with the current online system. With permission an alternate online DRES test will be offered through the BMFA direct at a later date. (Details yet to be confirmed)
For those without internet access a hard copy of the BMFA DRES test will be available at a later date. (Details yet to be confirmed)

Operator Registration – Operator ID

CAA Operator Registration is now live. http://register-drones.caa.co.uk/
Operators must be 18 or over to register.
There is an annual fee for registration as an operator of £9.00
Operators will be issued an Operator ID
Label any drones and model aircraft you’re responsible for with your Operator ID

Important information for BMFA members

BMFA members are not required to register as an operator with the current CAA online system. With permission the BMFA will administrator Registration and the annual £9.00 p.a. fee for its members. This will take place initially by 31 January 2020

White Sheet Members

You may choose to register and take the test independently with the CAA online system but please be advised, your membership of the BMFA is a condition required by White Sheet RFC to maintain compliance with the National Trust.

As it stands today, as members of the BMFA you can choose to delay your DRES registration and test process in favour of completing requirements through the BMFA with your annual BMFA membership renewal. (Full details of this service are yet to be announced)

As always:

Full responsibility for safe operation remains with the person operating the UAV.
It is up to individual operators to assure themselves of the accuracy of the data and comply with all UK drone rules and regulations.

More information

Please check the BMFA & CAA websites for updates…

Unmanned Aircraft System Operations in UK Airspace:
CAP 722b

You may find the following safety apps useful

Download NATS Drone Assist app free…

Download Airmap free…

Southern Winter League F3f 2019 / 20.

Sunday October 27th. Comp Cancelled.

The Whitesheet Slopes will be OPEN as per usual on this date.

Southern Winter League F3f Dates 2019 / 20

The Regional winter lg F3f comps are the perfect introduction to this very exciting branch of our sport. Newcomers are encouraged to come along and try F3f for perhaps their first time, always being guaranteed a very warm welcome.
Hints, tips & advice on model set up, turn styles & flying the course are always freely given. Most sports models are perfectly suitable to use, you do not need an expensive F3f mouldie.
It is through these comps that most of us regular F3f pilots ourselves started.

The venue for each comp will be wind direction dependant, using the slopes of Whitesheet, (NNW- SSW) Butser hill (NE) & Eastbourne ( most other directions) each competition venue being dependant upon the forecast wind direction.

Competition dates, each date being 4th Sunday of the month ;-

Sunday October 27th. Comp Cancelled

Sunday November 24th

Sunday December 22nd

Sunday January 26th

Sunday February 23rd

Sunday March 22 nd

For full competition & entry details please visit the BARCS forum, ( link below )

https://www.barcs.co.uk/forums/topic/9548-southern-winter-league-2019-20

Important !
Whitesheet slope closure information.

To enable the safe & successful staging of F3f competitions at Whitesheet, the Whitesheet slopes will be closed to all flying other than for that of the competition while F3f competitions are in progress. Competitions run from 9.00am- 5.00pm (approx finish time).

Thank you very much for your understanding & co-operation regarding this.

The English Open F3f 2019.

Sponsored by South Coast Sailplanes. http://www.south-coast-sailplanes.com/

A Cracking’ English Open F3f 2019.

Twenty four pilots coming from across the UK competed in this years competition.

We were blessed with dry weather & a moderate SW-WSW breeze throughout.

A total of 16 rounds were flown over the two days of racing.

For the result, competition report, Spreadsheet, photo’s & official videos, please visit the WRFC F3f page. http://whitesheet.org.uk/competitions/english-open-201718/

Stu, Whitesheet RFC Competition Secretary

Open Slopes 11th August 2019

OPEN SLOPES THIS SUNDAY IS ON

Weather Call for Open Slopes Sunday 11th August
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Weather forecast looks reasonable. Moderate winds from the SW (12mph)

Should remain fair but be prepared as there is a chance of the occasional shower with possible gusts of around 29mph.

Not looking too shabby so we are going to give it a go.

Unfortunately no bacon rolls
this time as our favourite chefs
are unable to attend till
later in the day.

Scale Day 21st July 2019

Scale and Open Slopes Events

Here are a few images from our recent Scale and Open Slopes events.

……………7th July 2019 Open Slopes is ON……………

10:00 to 15:30

DLGs, Electric assist etc. Be prepared for anything.

As the present forecast is not looking ideal for the slope, we are preparing to run Open Slopes

as a part flat field event at White Sheet Down this Sunday, with electric assist and DLG’s etc.

Hopefully we will encounter thermals or wave lift off the slope as the day progresses.

Everyone is invited, with anything that glides, no hotliners please.

Assist to height only.

Don’t forget your sun cream, sun glasses, hat and water.

See you on the hill

The English Open F3f

The Whitesheet RFC presents:
The English Open F3f 2019. Aug 17-18th 2019.
Sponsored by South Coast Sailplanes.

The Whitesheet RFC are proudly staging the 2019 English Open F3f competition over the weekend of aug 18-19th.
We are very proud of the continued excellent sponsorship of the event by Peter Payne owner of South Coast Sailplanes , this being the 5th consecutive year.
We are similarly proud of the continued excellent support given to the event by both Steve Webb of Steve Webb Models & Servo Shop , and of Graham Buckingham of Bucks Composites . Likewise this too being their 5th consecutive year of supporting the event.
The event is again being supported by both the ‘Great Britain Slope Racing Association’ GBSRA & the British Association of Radio Control Soarers Barcs .

Charity raffle ;- We will be staging a Charity raffle to raise very much needed funds for the Uk Blood cancer charity Bloodwise , and Histio UK . Last years event raised the excellent sum of £260.00

Entry opens at 8.00am on Saturday June 1st. Closing midnight on Weds July 31st.
Entry is limited to 35 pilots + a reserve list.
Full competition, Charity raffle & entry details, please visit the F3f page English Open F3f

Whitesheet slope closure information.
To enable the competition to be successfully staged, the Whitesheet slopes will be closed to all flying other than for that of the competition whilst this is in progress, Sat 17th Aug 8.00am-7.00pm, Sun 18th 8.00am-5.30pm. Thank you for your co-operation & understanding.

Stuart Wallace, (Stu) Whitesheet RFC Competition Secretary .

BMFA Call for Action – response from the Club

WSRFC, in response to the Call for Action from the BMFA, have sent the following letter to both the CAA and the Department for Transport. The text of the letter is at Call for Action Further and better information can be gleaned from the BMFA website news, in which they ask all flyers to express their views to the appropriate authority. David Bradfield 9th May 2019

Brief History and Update on the Road from the Public House

It is a managed highway, the responsibility of Wiltshire Highways.(WH) The route clearly dates back centuries to Bronze and Iron Age times, but fundamental structure was provided under Roman rule. This historical road structure was ruined by Wessex Water when they created a channel in the centre of the road for the main water feed from the reservoir tanks by the SE bowl. The road condition continued to degrade as a result of erosion from use and weather that works on the weaknesses to the structure caused by the pipeline works. In recent years WH have maintained the road with major support from WSRFC (WS) (of around £5K which included crowd-funding via BARCS and donations from club members) Minimal contributions from NT and others, none from Wessex. The outstanding undamaged piece of the work is the stretch from Morgans to the Kissing Gate that was basicilly provided by WS Current works by WH have improved road from the other side to the tanks, and some remedial work to storm run-offs on the hill to Morgans. The consensus of opinion amongst the committee is: Any monies that are donated by WSRFC will end up being washed to the bottom of the Hill unless they are invested in infrastructure like drainage, which is unlikely to meet with NT agreement However, we do want to continue to be able to use the road so we should work with WH and report back to Committee and Members should the need arise to either update or seek funds. It was agreed at the Committee Meeting on 17th April that the remaining balance of the Road Fund (£392) be made available as a contribution to Wiltshire Highways for works recently completed. This facilitates WH application to the local parish for funding D Bradfield 21st April 2019

Open Slopes – 21st April 2019 – Cancelled due to Easterlies

We seem to have had a bad case of Easterlies for Open Slopes this April with all cancelled. Weather for the Scale Day on 28th currently looking Fair though. Next open Slopes – 19th May

Correction on the advertised dates for F3f and Scale in March, 2019

Minor correction to March Dates

Please note that the dates for the first scale event of 2019 and the March backup F3f date have been ammended and are not as advertised on the club events poster that has been sent out.

Please check the dates on the calendar and F3f pages, before setting out for Whitesheet

The correct, revised dates are

March 10th – Winter league F3f

March 17th – Scale fly in

Southern Winter league F3f, reserve Sund March 10th

Yikes ! 68mph W-WNW.
On Arriving at Whitesheet at around 8.30, my wind meter showed that we had a steady 30 gusting to 35 mph W – WNW
Andy B & I walked out in advance of everyone, to the very far end of what is known as ‘Morgans’ .
Whilst I set about marking / measuring out the course Andy had a fly to test the conditions. Within 5 minutes of him launching the wind had picked up significantly, this I recorded as 50- gusting to 55 mph .
Credit to Andy, he stuck with it for several more minutes in what would best be described as being a bit of ‘challenging air’ lol.
After a few more minutes of being truly battered by the wind, Andy’s quick & crisp footwork to keep his balance would have scored him a perfect 10 on ‘Strictly’ lol
While taking a further windmeter reading it had now averaged a steady 55 – 60, with a highest measured gust of 68 mph THUD !
By now watching Andy’s deft footwork to keep himself upright was like watching Michael Flatley in Riverdance
With the wind still picking up, Andy then brought his model around to score a perfect 10 landing .
The result……….a round of applause to Andy B & Comp cancelled .
Windswept Stu. Whitesheet Comp Sec.

For White Sheet members (2018 AGM Recap)

Happy New Year to all.

I hope everyone has enjoyed the festive season and the start of 2019 has gone well for you.

If I may, I’d like to take you back to 2018 for a short time to tell you a little about your clubs AGM.

For anyone interested a detailed account of the 2018 White Sheet Radio Flying Club AGM, what was said and done, can be accessed from the link at the end of this page.

For a brief account of the day read on.

As always, every member is invited to attend White Sheet’s Radio Flying Club AGM, and many do.

We also understand that many of you have other commitments especially as the festive time of year is imminent.

One example is that the 2018 AGM fell on the same day as one of the many F3F competitions that are held throughout the year.

F3F, a class of competition for radio-controlled model gliders, administered by the Fédération Aéronautique International. The competition involves flying 10 consecutive laps of a 100m course as fast as possible. Why not come along to one of the F3F events held at White Sheet and see what it’s about. There is always plenty of people willing to talk to who will be pleased to explain what is going on and demonstrate the gliders being used.

White Sheet has a solid core of F3F participants and given the choice of AGM or flying, understandably, for most, flying won the day.

The exception was our honourable competition secretary Stuart Wallace. Who’s dedication to the club is genuinely apparent. He carried out his club duties, very honourably, putting his own desires aside, and attending the AGM, over what must have been a very difficult and compelling choice of flying and competing in the F3F competition.

We know this must have been a very difficult decision and we commend Stuart in his actions.

We wont talk about another member of the committee, “he who must not be named” as the individual chose, not to, attend the AGM, in favour of traipsing miles across the country to some event where, one unruly gang of men fight another unruly gang of men to posses a synthetic, waterproof, bag of air! I haven’t finished… After all that effort, when they’ve got the synthetic, waterproof, bag of air, what do they do? put the synthetic, waterproof, bag of air, back on the ground!

I know, go figure, as they say in the America. 🙂

Only jesting, Dav… woah! I nearly slipped up. As in the world of Harry Potter we had better refer to this person as “he who must not be named”… Who knows what magical terror would befall us, if revealed. 🙂

Overall the meeting was a very friendly and relaxed affair. Everyone has a chance to contribute and many do.

Our honourable chairman Chris Lamming captained the meeting in a friendly and progressive manner, making sure we covered all required areas whilst continually encouraging participation by everyone.

After the AGM agenda was presented and signed off by committee and members, Mr Mike Bleathman volunteered to take centre stage as presenter, of the 2018 “White Sheet Radio Flying club Presentations”

This was an entertaining part of the days proceedings, as Mike spoke about the awards, contenders and winners. Finally finding the ultimate award winner was himself. Mike continued with professionalism and modesty, remaining humble, as he presented the 2018 Arborist of the year award, to… himself!

Well done Mike. Keep practicing. The 2019 Arborist award could also be yours…

Chris Lamming wound up the days event by presenting White Sheet Radio Flying Club 2018 promotional Hoodies to those who qualified. We must express deepest commiserations for Mr Ian Duff, our honourable treasurer, who missed out on his White Sheet hoodie by one,, little,, tiny,, round, sticker. I’d like to say, for Ians benefit, that the hoodies weren’t all that great, quite awful really, but… unfortunately Ian, the hoodies are of a superb design and quality that I’m positive will be unmatched this side of the South Pole!

Finally, to remember the day, a group photo of attendees was taken, by our multi talented chairman Mr Chris Lamming.

After close of the AGM, many remained to talk, laugh and cry, with friends new and old.

From the mixture of mingling chatter and laughter in the room it was apparent that White Sheet Radio Flying Club has a knowledgeable and amiable association of members that, I, myself and I am sure all of you are proud to be part of.

It was apparent that the days events were very successful and a credit to all our committee and club members. Those present on the day, and those away, who also contributed to the event in their absence. Notice I didn’t reveal “he who must not be named” 🙂 Mr, Master, Sir, Vice Boss, Big D…d, thank you for all the hard work and contributions that assisted us minions with the smooth running of the 2018 AGM.

For a more detailed and a slightly more sensible account of the days proceedings you can access your clubs AGM minutes from here:

http://whitesheet.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/White-Sheet-Radio-Flying-Club-AGM-2018-Minutes-SW-edit-1.pdf

Thank you all, for your continued support of the wonderful White Sheet Radio Flying Club.

I wish you all many fun filled enjoyable hours flying on the hill in 2019, as Buzz Lightyear says, to infinity and beyond…

Regards,

Andrew Beaven (club secretary)

Disclaimer: only prescribed drugs were used whilst writing this account.

BMFA FEES for 2019

membership fees for 2019

The BMFA have released 2019 membership fees.

The fees agreed for 2019 are as follows:

Senior £38
Junior £17
Family Senior £38
Family Partner £25
Family Junior £13

Renewals available from 1st December 2018

White Sheet Radio Flying Club 2018 AGM

White Sheet Radio Flying Club invite all members to the 2018 AGM

THE DAY—> Saturday 17th November

THE TIME —> Commencing 2:30pm

THE PLACE —> The Dolphin Inn, Gillingham. Dorset

Hello, fellow static aviators…

Hopefully you have all enjoyed a fabulous year flying in the beautiful Wiltshire countryside up on White Sheet Down.

<—Open Slopes events were very successful—>

Fortunately we were blessed with fabulous weather this year

2018 was a great year for “F3F” at White Sheet

Practising, competitions or just for the sheer enjoyment of flying the pinnacle of sailplane technology

Piloting skills are superb and the accompanying soundtrack of an

F3F airframe howling across the sky is quite exhilarating

~~~~~~~~~~

Organised events have all run very successfully in 2018,

with one exception…. You knew it was coming…

Scale !

What happened?

These guys don’t know…

When all the sky gods cooperate and scale birds get airborne,

it is always a marvellous sight to see.

No! this gentleman is not relaxing.

Contrary to what this photo may suggest, actually, this gentleman is navigating for a fellow pilot.

A very important job and proof that, yes, pictures do lie. Honest…

We all wish you better luck with your scale events next year Chris

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

TO BUSINESS, LADIES AND GENTLEMAN.

2019 is fast approaching, and the winter season will soon be upon us again.

As always this signifies that it is AGM time once again.

Yes!

I am positive every one of you just shouted Yes…

Please add WSRFC AGM to your diary

As in previous years, the 2018 AGM will be held at

The Dolphin Inn, Gillingham, Dorset. Kicking off at 2:30pm. Saturday 17th November 2018

How to find us …

For those of us who haven’t been before the postcode for your SAT-NAVs is —>

SP8 4HB

For those without all that newfangled pesky technology —>

The Dolphin Inn can be found on the B3092 on the outskirts of Gillingham Dorset.

If you drive through Gillingham on the B3092 looking to your starboard side and do not see The Dolphin Inn, turn around and drive back through Gillingham.

Once again, survey the starboard side and you will be sure to find The Dolphin Inn.

If not, turn around and repeat all the above until you do….

~~~~~~~~

The Agenda

(Revision 1*)

Minutes of 2017 AGM.
Matters arising.
To receive an annual report from each member of the Executive Committee.
To review an audited statement of the funds of the WSRFC. The audit shall be carried out by a member who is not on the Committee.
Consider and adopt, WSRFC Handbook Amendments, for 2018-2019
Approve charitable donation proposed at the previous year’s AGM.
Select charity for support in 2019.
To hold elections
To set the Annual Subscription for the ensuing year.
Consider proposed, WSRFC Handbook Amendments, for 2019-2020
*Announce provisional dates for 2019 open slopes
*Announce provisional dates for 2019 Scale meetings
*Announce provisional dates for 2019 F3F competitions at White Sheet.
Other Business
To vote on motions listed on the agenda.

And finally,

Prize giving ceremony

Mike Bleatham has kindly agreed to be presenter for the 2018 Open Slopes Prize giving ceremony.

Thank you Mike.

“CALLING ALL White Sheet Radio Flying Club Members“

White Sheet Radio Flying Clubs AGM is YOUR chance to have a say in how YOUR club is run so please do come along.

If you have anything you would like to propose please comment via the links below.

Any comments not relevant to the AGM agenda will be thoroughly ignored and deleted ….

Sensible comments & your proposals please, to your:

Chairman chairman@whitesheet.org.uk

Secretary secretary@whitesheet.org.uk

~~~~~~~~

The main event is the AGM but of course this is also an opportunity to meet with friends new and old, chat about this years interesting landings, the latest F3F technology, scale gliders or just about anything. There’s always something to talk about, and then there is, free food…

~~~~~~~~

Thank you for taking the time.

We hope to see you soon.

Regards,

Andrew Beaven

WSRFC Secretary 2017-2018

Southern Winter League F3f 2018/19.

Here are the dates and details of the coming Southern Winter league F3f competitions. Hopefully the weather will be much kinder to us than last year when only 2 comps were staged, one of these being at Whitesheet the other at The Long Man, Eastbourne.
The venues for the coming competitions are Whitesheet, Butser Hill & Eastbourne.
Whitesheet for all wind directions including & in between NNW- S
Butser Hill, NE winds
Eastbourne. N-E-S winds
The chosen venue for each competition being dependant upon the forecast wind direction.
A ‘venue & weather call’ will be made on the Friday evening before each competition, note ;- earlier if the various forecast allow. This decision will be announced / posted on the Whitesheet RFC website, the
BARCS forum Southern Winter league thread, & via an email to all WRFC members.
Southern Winter League Competition dates ;-
Round 1 ;- Sunday Oct 28th, – Cancelled
Round 2;- Sunday, Nov 25th. – Cancelled.
Rds 1 & 2 reserve;- Sunday Dec 9th – Date not required
Round 3 ;- Sunday, Dec 23rd. – Cancelled.
Round 4 ;- Sunday Jan 27th 2019 – Comp staged at Whitesheet
Round 5 ;- Sunday Feb 24th 2019 – Cancelled
Rds 3, 4 & 5 reserve ;- Sunday Mar 10th 2019. – Comp cancelled on day due to 68mph winds !
The Regional winter lg comps are the perfect introduction to this very exciting branch of our sport. Newcomers are encouraged to come along and try F3f for perhaps their first time, always being guaranteed a very warm welcome. Hints, tips & advice on model set up & flying the course are always freely given. Most sports models are perfectly suitable to use, you don’t need an expensive F3f mouldie. It is through these comps that most of us regular F3f pilots ourselves started.

PLEASE NOTE ;-
Whitesheet slope closure information.
For reasons of safety, the Whitesheet slopes will be closed to all flying other than for that of the competition while F3f competitions are in progress.
Competitions run from 9.00am- until / at around 5.00pm.
Visit the F3f page for full competition details .
Stu, Whitesheet Competition secretary.

Notice for all White Sheet RFC Members

This month’s club meeting, (October 2018) usually held at the Somerset Arms, Maiden Bradley, will NOT take place.

Please note:

Unlike normal club meetings, generally scheduled for the second Wednesday of the month, Novembers meeting is scheduled for the first Wednesday of the month.

Please be sure to update your calendars accordingly.

Wednesday 7th November 2018, commencing at the usual time at or before 8pm, and the usual place, The Somerset Arms, Maiden Bradley.

Remember all White Sheet Radio Flying Club Members are always welcome to join us there.

Please continue to regularly check the website for updates.

BMFA AGM

Formal Notice Of The 71st Annual General Meeting Of The Society Of Model Aeronautical Engineers LTD

Patron: HRH The Duke of Edinburgh KG. President: Air Chief Marshal Sir Michael Alcock.

British Model Flying Association,

Chacksfield House,

31 St Andrews Road,

Leicester.

LE2 8RE

Tel: (+44) 116 2440028. Fax: (+44) 116 2440645. Email: admin@bmfa.org

———————————————————————————————————————

The Annual General Meeting of the Society will be held at the Jurys Inn Hinckley Island Hotel, A5 Watling Street, Hinckley, Leicestershire LE10 3JA (Junction 1 off the M69 signposted Hinckley/Milton Keynes A5), on Saturday 17th November 2018 and will commence at 1:30pm. Registration will be from 10:00am. The following nominations have been received for the vacant Elected Officer’s posts on the Council of Management:

Chairman ** (1 year term) Ian Pallidter FSMAE
Vice-Chairman (2 year term) Peter Halman FSMAE
Honorary Secretary (2 year term) Mark Benns
Competition Secretary (2 year term) Jo Halman FSMAE
Records Officer (2 year term) Simon VaitKevicius
FAI Delegate ** (1 year term) Julie Fisher

** Co-opted at Full Council Meeting January 2018 until the AGM ON 17th November 2018. There are no ballots required for Elected Officer’s posts. There are no ballots required for Technical Committees. Biographical details of all candidates will be included in the BMFA News. PROXY FORM’s for the use of Fellows or Clubs who are unable to attend the AGM must be returned to the Chief Executive to arrive not later than 1:30pm on Friday 16th November 2018.

Proxy Voting Form: Click Here
Prize Giving Dinner Form: Click Here
Accommodation: Click Here
AGM Programme: Click Here

Photos from the September Open Slopes

A fine finale for the Open Slopes Season

Nearly thirty pilots turned up for the last Open Slopes event of 2018

What better use of the mound on top of Whitesheet’s SW bowl

Once again we got very lucky with the weather, though the conditions at times were quite light, but a great day of flying and larks was had by all

See you for more next year!

: Must be a Midweek Ahi as it’s naked

: Ahi of Ivan or Richard

: Ahi number 2 away!

TVSF Day Out – September 2018

The Thames Valley Silent Flyers Association are organising one of their get-togethers, Thursday September 6

Here is a note from Graham Stallard, Chairman of TVSF

Finally the weather appears to be co-operating. I have left calling this on until closer to the time to save calling it off. The venue will be confirmed on Tuesday/Wednesday. However the forecast is NNE to NE so the probable venue is Watership Down NE bowl.

Attached is an updated brief (click here!) on location and directions.

Look forward to flying with you Thursday. Looks like a cracker so for.

Best Regards,

Graham Stallard.

Training Post for AB

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Photos from the English Open

Photos from the English Open Last Weekend

Photos below from the English Open F3f event last week – full report to follow! Photos by Mike Shellim and Chris Lamming Link to full set of Mike’s shots here, with a report of the event here

: Ian Falconer

: Mike Shellim with Sponsor Peter Paine

: Nigel planning strategy with Keith Woods

: Tony Livingstone

: The prizes

: You comp sec, Stuart picking up Third Place!

: Cows planning a demonstration march

: Paul Stubley

: Mark Treble

: Winner of the Ahi – Graeme

: JP wins fastest time of the competition

: JP

: Runner-up, Mark Treble

: Wind was variable all weekend

: Andy Burgoyne

: Phil Taylor at base B

: Russel – not taking any chances

: John Treble

: JP

: Mark Passingham

: Dave Rumble

: Mike Shellim

: Mark Treble

: Graeme and Stu manning the middle

: Winner – Mike Shellim

: The competitors!

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