Firstly, may I take this opportunity to introduce myself.

I’m Steve Bentley and the recently elected slope secretary for the SSA. I haven’t been flying radio control models for as long as many of the other members, but have had a lifelong fascination of all things that fly. Starting off with watching my father assemble Airfix kits on the kitchen table to later indulging in my first rubber powered and free flight balsa models, I’ve been keen to learn more about these gravity defying craft!

I was fortunate to drive by Callow Bank one sunday and witness from my car the assembled gliders doing their thing. I walked down to the peg and got chatting to Terry Gregory and John Penton who were kind enough to take time to explain what the SSA were all about and how to get involved.

I contacted Colin Troise and my first flying lesson was arranged; my excitement was tempered by my nervousness but Colin explained the practicalities of the buddy box system and with the pre-flight tuition explained the club Middle Phase was launched into the blue yonder!

My own ventures with the Middle Phase I built and flew were mixed! It flew as they all do, very well and predictable, but was stymied by the numpty on the sticks. I’ve had a selection of  models, and my own skills I hope to think have improved since then! I’m currently building a Vintage Minimoa glider at a 1/4 scale, and hope to have it in the air this spring.

We are fortunate in many ways with our club: We have one of the finest slope soaring sites in the area, and some might argue in the country. We have a fairly relaxed and informal way of doing things, and I like to think we will all try in some way to help those who might need it. We’re also very fortunate in the wealth of expertise both in ability to build but also fly model aircraft. It never ceases to surprise me the degree of work that goes into some of the beautiful machines we frequently see at the slope.

It’s also encouraging that we have newcomers coming along to see what we’re all about and keen to find out more. To those I say, if you’re interested in pursuing this enjoyable pastime, don’t hesitate to find out more, either from me, or any other member. I will do my utmost to give you any information you require, and if I can’t, I’ll find out.

I’m planning to organise several events at the slope this year, so please return here to keep up to date with dates, format etc. The club members will of course be informed via e mail and flyers and info sheets will be available as pdf files.

Happy flying!

Steve