Adventure group – Gliding
By popular demand the Adventure Group are going gliding. Due to the booking requirements, group members have already been contacted about this adventure and all places are now taken. If you wish to be added to the waiting list please contact the organiser.
Here are the full details:
| Nature of activity | Flight in a glider with optional group picnic for flyers and their spectating friends. |
| Name of u3a organiser and organiser’s contact details | Deborah Wallis, email via: adventure@u3a.dawlish.info |
| Location of activity | Devon and Somerset Gliding Club North Hill Airfield, Sheldon Honiton Devon EX14 4QW |
| Date and start time | Thursday 18th July from approx 5.30/6 pm |
| Duration | Up to 3 to 4 hours but you are welcome to leave after your flight. |
| Cost | We need to have a minimum of ten people paying £50 each to fly. Second flights may be available for £15, depending on the time available. Free for those not flying. |
| Cost includes | Following a pre-flight briefing, those flying will be launched using a winch, with a qualified instructor at the controls of the glider. Once in the air, you may have the opportunity to take control and experience flying a glider for yourself. You will be in the air for up to 15 minutes, but flight times can be shorter than this depending on the weather conditions. |
| Terms and conditions | The club’s website does not list terms and conditions for group evenings but they do mention some restrictions on pilot height and weight and also some medical conditions which may make it unsafe to fly. Please check these out.
Safety instructions for visiting the airfield are listed here. |
| Deadline for payment | A deposit of £20 per person to be paid to Dawlish and District u3a Treasurer by 24th May 2024. The balance of £30 per person to be paid by 11th July.
Bank details are as follows: Name of bank: NatWest Please note, it is really important that you add the reference so our Treasurer knows what the funds are for. Cheque payments: |
| Cancellation policy | We must have ten people. It may be possible to refund someone dropping out but only if it does not put the numbers below ten. Anyone dropping out may still have to pay in full or find a replacement. Please notify Deborah as soon as possible if it appears that you are unable to go.
If the provider has to cancel due to unsuitable weather then we will aim to find an alternate date. |
| Procedure for notifying group if provider cancels | The provider will contact us on the day to cancel if the weather is unsuitable for flying and will try to let us know by 4.30pm to avoid us travelling unnecessarily.
In the event of cancellation I will send an email to all those who have booked and update the details on the website. Please check the website before you leave in case of last minute cancellation. |
| Level of fitness required or any particular skills (you must satisfy yourself that you are physically able to participate in the activity). | Fitness and medical requirements for gliding are described here. |
| Personal medical conditions | If you have any medical conditions that might affect your ability to participate then you should declare this to Gliding Club staff on arrival. |
| Disclaimer | Please note that whilst the u3a organisers are concerned for everyone’s welfare, by taking part in this activity you should recognise that your safety is your own responsibility. |
| Appropriate footwear & clothing | Those who are flying should wear trainers or shoes suitable for walking in grass. Dresses and skirts are not recommended. We are advised that it can be quite warm in a glider on a sunny evening. |
| Storage of personal belongings | There is no safe storage provided. Participants should leave valuables at home or locked out of sight in their car.
Please note that for safety reasons, cameras and phones may only be taken in the glider if a neck or wrist strap is used. |
| Toilet / refreshment facilities | Toilets are available but not refreshment facilities. We will take our own picnics and drinks. No alcohol should be consumed before flying. |
| Meeting point | In the parking area near the clubhouse. |
| Public transport and car parking facilities | Directions to the airfield are available here.
Parking is available onsite. Car sharing can be organised for those attending, please contact Deborah if you want or can offer a lift. |
| Risk assessment | A risk assessment has been conducted for this activity. It is recommended that you read this. Please find it here. |
Any questions? Just get in touch via email: adventure@u3a.dawlish.info.
Last updated 28/06/24