Bird in flight

Today's weather was much better than anticipated, so action man Mr A decided today was the day we would go gliding.

It's something he's said we should do for a while, but either the weather has been rubbish or we've had something else on. Mr A has done it before, but many years ago.

We turned up at Bowland Forest Gliding Club completely on spec & were told if we were happy to wait, we might get a flight. The wait was longer than we expected (we arrived about 1.45 and didn't get to fly until 5.45) but we were kept entertained by a lovely man called Frank (and his dog, Stella). He gave us the lowdown on the club and gliding.

I went first; Mr A was most disappointed that I wasn't scared or nervous!
The take off was fast and we were soon in the air.

My instructor, Henry, was great; pointing out all the landmarks as we flew. Visibility was fantastic so I could see Heysham power station, Blackpool Tower, the Lake District and the North Wales coast.

After a run through of the controls it was my turn to fly.....eeeeek! I think I did ok as Henry didn't bale out in a panic (unlike my driving instructor when I had my first lesson!).

It was amazing to be up in the clouds without any engine; with just the thermals to keep us up.

Sadly, all good things come to an end so it was time to return to earth with just a little bump!

Our fee included 3 months membership to the club, so we can go again for further lessons if we wish. It surprised me that it costs £5 for the launch then 25p per minute for the flight (including the instructor). So basically an hours lesson for £20!!! Bargain.

I would go again, I'm not sure Mr A is that bothered; he's always after the next 'rush' from something new. Who knows what he will line up next???