December2013 by 'Sarah Gill

HOVERCRAFT Light

December 2013

The official magazine of the

Hovercraft Club of Great Britain www.hovercraft.org.uk

Rotax & Wiseco Parts Digatron Engine Monitoring

Engine Repair & Maintenance

The Hov Pod is a 3-seat factory assembled personal leisure cruising hovercraft Commercial craft available

No kits available, sorry

Online shop for parts & consumables

www.conairsports.co.uk service@conairsports.co.uk

01295 771088

www.hovpod.com

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sales@hovepod.com

UK and World Championship Winning Hovercraft

Junior

Formula 3

Formula 503

Standard self assembly hull kits from £1185 hulls can be tailored to your specifications with a range of material combinations for improving strength, weight and impact resisting properties, ask about Venoms’ ‘flextech’ high impact laminate

VENOM composites

For friendly help and advice.. Tony

07855 737 160 www.venom.co.uk Manufacturer and supplier of Hovercraft, kits and parts Design & Construction in Composites Mould and pattern work Bespoke engineering services 0779 3807073

SERVICES We are now the European distributor for

2 - 7 seat robust cruising

Stockist for Miller Race Oils, 2 & 4 Stroke

HASCON WING

For prices or details please see our web site or contact us for a current catalogue A range of spares and products will be on sale at race meetings Vortex PREDATOR F1 World Champion

Hovercraft sales www.vortex.org.uk

Vortex STORM LE F2 twin engine

Vortex STORM F3 UK & World Champion

sales@vortexservices.net

Vortex STORM LE F35 Sports / Leisure

Parts, spares & online sales www.vortexservices.net

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Job Vacancy……..Trophy Ordinator

“

December 2013 o Ho Ho, too much food and drink, time with the family and more

than likely another totally depressing episode of East Enders, where someone will either die, fall on hard times or alternatively a fire will wreck some ones house/lively-hood, cynical me, never.... Bah Humbug!! As it’s the time of year for giving, I’ll do something I tend not to do, or do very rarely..... say some thank you’s and pay the odd compliment!! You may not know it, but a lot of work goes into this magazine, and I will take some credit (a very, very, very small amount of credit...) but the most should go to my co-editor, Ms Sarah Gill. She really

does do most of the work, and is the driving force! Without her sterling work this wouldn’t happen.... yep she is a shy little lady, but she puts the design, drive and aesthetics’ into this production. I maybe the vocal stream but the ‘red headed’ little lady is the brains, and she fully deserves all the praise, so in this Christmas edition I will official say ‘ thank you’ to my co-editor, without you we couldn’t do what we do. Thanks hun, you’re a great partner!! Whilst thanking people I would like to say a ‘huge’ thank you to everyone whom has taken the time to contribute this year. Without your efforts there would be very little content, so to all of you whom have contributed ‘Thank you’ and long may it continue!!! And if you haven’t taken the time to pen something... go on do it, its pain free and harmless!! As 2013 comes to an end all eyes turn to next year, listening to those in ‘know’ and reading the emails which have been circulating, the National racing calendar is taking shape. Unfortunately as mentioned previously the World Championships in Germany have been cancelled, and it appears no ‘Plan B’ could wing its way in to save the day. However I’m certain 2015 will see such an event. Also four European meetings are beginning to emerge as well, with two being in the United Kingdom, along with meetings in France and Germany, so without the World Championship’s there should at least be something for everyone. Also another major event in South Korea is being mentioned, so for those with plenty of money and holidays, a chance to compete in a far off land still may beckon.

Co-

Responsibilities 1) Source & order trophies for national race meetings and get them to each event. 2) Source & order trophies for season championships and get them to the AGM. 3) Write to all season trophy winners to re-call the returnable trophies for the AGM - some people may elect to have them engraved and take them directly to the AGM. Others will send them to you and you will need to get them engraved and take them to AGM. 4) Prepare list of trophy recipients and supply to person awarding trophies at AGM. 5) Arrange for the AGM trophies to be laid out before the AGM presentation dinner, record winners and send information to magazine for publication. Time Commitment An hour or two per month. Please contact catherine.lucas@ntlworld.com or 01949 875725 for more details.

As I’m pressed for time at this hectic time of the year, all that’s left for me to say, on behalf of both myself and Sarah is have a safe, enjoyable and Happy Christmas and wishing everyone all the best for 2014!!! I’m certain you’ll all eat and drink too much, I for one will.... but hey, so what! Enjoy and stay safe!! Cheers Darren and Sarah Editors magazine@hovercraft.org.uk

Send in your articles to

magazine@hovercraft. org.uk

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Contents

06 Diary It’s a date 07 Chairman’s Desk The latest update from our chairman 10

08 Continue of Chairman’s Desk The latest update from our chairman 09 Hover News Brian J. Russell 10 Forty years ago Granville Spedding 12 A Quiet Hovercraft Alf

13 MHA Model of the month 14 You can race this hovercraft Daneil Turnbull 15 AGM www.hovercraft.org.uk 16 Photo Competition Clive Mason 18 Hovercraft for sale www.hovercraft.org.uk

Cover pic: Fan after Fan Photo taken by: Alf

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Diary2014 MARCH 15-16 HCGB AGM & Symposium Weekend Burton Upon Trent www.hovercraft.org.uk

JULY 19-20 National Race Meeting Claydon House www.hovercraft.org.uk

MAY 3-5 National Race Meeting Magnolls Farm www.hovercraft.org.uk

AUGUST 5-10 WHC

MAY 24-26 National Race Meeting Hackett’s Lake www.hovercraft.org.uk

AUGUST 23-25 National Race Meeting Gang Warily www.hovercraft.org.uk

JUNE 7-8 National Race Meeting Rother Valley www.hovercraft.org.uk

SEPTEMBER 6-7 Possible Race Meeting TBA www.hovercraft.org.uk

JUNE 14-15 Possible Hover-in TBA www.hovercraft.org.uk

SEPTEMBER 20-21 National Race Meeting Towcester www.hovercraft.org.uk

JUNE 21-22 EHF Race Meeting Prudhomat, France www.hovercraft.org.uk

OCTOBER 4-5 Possible Race Meeting TBA www.hovercraft.org.uk

www.hovercraft.org.uk

JULY 5-6 Possible Race Meeting TBA www.hovercraft.org.uk Whilst every attempt is made to keep calender items up to date, some calender items may alter after print or the Editor is not made aware of changes-please check relevant UK or European websites for most up to date calenders. If you know of any changes or updates, or wish an event to be listed, then please contact the Editor at magazine@hovercraft.org.uk

LightHovercraft Published by The hovercraft Club of Great Britain Ltd www.hovercraft.org.uk Editors Darren Clarke Sarah Gill

Advertising Rates Issues 1 3 Size 1/4 pg £9 £26 1/2 pg £17 £49 Full pg £33 £95

Distribution Roger Allman Tel: 07765 303755 Contributions Last date for contributions is the of a month.

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Printed by ADH printing 2 Boyne Rise Kingsworthy Winchester Hants SO23 7RE

20th

12 £95 £184 £357

Contact the Editor for details at magazine@hovercraft.org.uk

Small adverts are free to HCGB members and run for three issues unless reqested otherwise. The opinions expressed in any item or article in this magazine are those of the contributor. They do not necessarily reflect the views, opinions or policies of the Hovercraft Club of Great Britain Ltd. The entire contents of Light Hovercraft are copyright and permission to reproduce any part must be sought from the Editor. While we make every effort to ensure the accuracy of the information in this publication, we do not accept any responsibility for any inaccuracy.

Small ads small ads are free to members and run for three issues unless requested otherwise

The Chairman’s Desk Chapter Twenty Nine

FOR SALE OSPREY 5 For sale OSPREY 5, white hull + seating some red trim, skirt in good condition. New radiator, with 12 warranty. Peugeot petrol engine. Little use, very good condition. C omes complete with 4 wheel, Hayling Trailers purpose built braked trailer. Ready to cruise . OFFERS IN THE REGION OF £4995 ono. Kevin Juggins Mob : 07977810228 FOR SALE HIRTH 2705 R06 2 stroke engine 65 HP, Dual ignition, Pull start, complete with Hirth 3.16:1 gearbox reduction drive, Hirth exhaust, Rotax after muffler, rectifier only had 87 hours use - £550 ono Colin Gates, 01227 792461 or 07795 410160 e-mail colin@gates51.wanadoo. co.uk

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Changing he Hovercraft Club of Great Britain is forever changing.

Without change we would stagnate and then slowly fade away. Within The Council we are forever looking for ways of improving the club, attracting new members, encouraging participation and generating revenue to do all this. There is some resistance from a small group of the ‘we have always done it this way’ party but they are now very much in the minority. At the AGM next March, I will be standing down after three years. I may stand for re-election but please vote for another candidate if you feel I am not driving this club in your chosen direction.

Every member in this club is eligible to stand for election to the Council. You may think that it is an onerous task requiring countless hours and huge aggravation. Our meetings have largely been conducted via telephone conferencing. Most of the time all that is required from you is your opinion on a proposal. You can take on different roles and your input is up to you. For many years I have been told by long established members that Council is for policy making, but in the style of more modern flat line management structure we have evolved into an active body of members by necessity. Sometimes volunteers can be very hard to find and members can be very hard to motivate. Talking of the AGM, you are reminded that it is on the weekend of 15th/16th March 2014 and all members are welcome. For South West members, that provides a dilemma. Jim Waddell has informed us that Bicton College are hosting the first tests of the school/colleges four craft on that date due to other local calendar entries. I am sure that Jim would welcome your attendance if you chose to miss out on the party at Burton on Trent. On January 4th 2014 there will be a hovercraft video insert at the end of each sports bulletin on the Breakfast Show on BBC1. This is the film that was produced a few weeks ago at Magnoll’s farm with Mike Bushell. He has sent me a text apologising for the delays but he wanted to be on the red sofa when it airs so that he can talk about the day in the company of people such as Mike King, Jake Cooper (the only current World Champion present during filming), Nils Atkins, The Flying Normans, Izzy Crane, Philip (I am a mobile camera platform) Tattersall, Justin (fuel drinking craft) Baines, Joe (Mike broke your craft, Steve) Milligan and numerous others. I have just read my column from the last magazine and realised that it was written 24 hours before the cancellation of next year’s World Championships became public. Just in case you have not heard already, the German bid to host the Championships has had to be withdrawn. No suitable alternative has yet been proposed. There is talk of South Korea hosting a type of event but at the moment that is in the discussion stage. Therefore the calendar for 5th to 10th August has a gap. I understand from the Irish Hovercraft Club that their annual cruise is centred on the previous weekend. No one has given me firm dates for the next ‘final’ Rhone raid. At the recent Midlands branch meeting there were eighteen members present. The business section was soon over and it was great listening and contributing to some lively discussion on numerous aspects of hovercraft. The new builds were a major topic with eight craft currently being built between the members present. Use of the craft, television events, World speed records, best source of components and several other threads were explored over a drink and soon it was after eleven o’clock. Branch meetings are a great way of meeting up with hovercraft friends as well as trading information, knowledge and hovercraft parts. All the branch details and meetings are published at the back of this magazine David and Ros Atkins (and Nils) have recently been invited to the Somerleyton Estate to explore the possibility of hovercraft events based around the largest inland lake in

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Suffolk. Some of you may recognise the name as the site of the start of Christopher Cockerell’s evolution of the hovercraft as we know it. The estate is keen for the club to hold an event there. Your support in the organisation of this will be needed. After much negotiation, the South East Branch led by Russ Pullen has been offered the use of a large site near Tonbridge in Kent to stage a race event along with numerous opportunities to attract new members and generate some revenue for the club. Their main stumbling block at present is that the date proposed is the weekend of 9th/10th August 2014. Traditionally the only round of the National Championships held in August has always been the bank holiday weekend due to a long established idea that the rest of the month could be left free for those who would like to have a holiday elsewhere without missing a race event. With the cancellation of the World Championships, this site being near the Channel crossings (European drivers are welcome to join in) and it being a long time since a South East event, I would love to see, with the members’ support, this unofficial rule revoked if only for this year. I feel we need to be flexible to maximise the benefits of this event and use of a new site for the club. The Midlands Branch Christmas event is to be held on 11th January 2014. You are welcome to come along and join in the competition for one of the most keenly sought after trophies…..The Annual skittles knockout. Carla will be unable to attend this year probably much to the relief of Keith Rhodes who was dangerously close to her erratic cheese throws in last year’s party. If you wish to discuss anything, my contact details are at the back of the magazine. Send in your thoughts!!! Chris

Midlands branch games and video night 11th Jan 2014 From 7.00 Conservative club, Barrow on Soar Leicestershire, LE12 8QA Skittles, games, videos, raffle and good company – all proceeds to the local air ambulance No food this year but Chip shop and Chinese are only a short walk away

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HOVER NEWS Brian J. Russell Sixth Skjold Fast Patrol Boat Delivered The French company DCNS and its local partners delivered the sixth and final Skjold class fast patrol boat to the Royal Norwegian Navy in April 2013. The Skjold FPB is characterised by its speed, reduced underwater signatures, small size with significant weapons punch and its littoral combat capability. The 47.5 m long hull form is an air cushion catamaran with waterjet propulsion, providing high speed and manoeuvrability, of composite construction. Bow and stern flexible seals complete the air cushion boundary. The first of class ship Skjold (shield) was commissioned in April 1999 and the six ships were constructed at the Norwegian Umoe Mandal shipyard. Skjold FPBs are designed for maritime safety and security missions in Norway’s coastal waters. Radar absorbent doors, hatches and windows, help to deter detection and weight savings accrue, when compared to traditional materials. Using Norway’s coastal topography with its islands and fjords, covert operations can be carried out, including surveillance and the engagement of hostile forces from a close distance, whilst remaining undetected. In addition, the shallow draft of 0.9m to 2.3m allows the ship to access very shallow water, denied to other vessels.

Collaboration with the USA

Skjold completed a 13 month deployment to the USA, allowing the US Navy to study the Skjold Class concept. The ship participated in a series of naval exercises and a number of tests with US Navy research establishments: NAVSEA and the Office of Naval Research.

Propulsion

The waterjets are normally driven by gas turbines, but may also be driven by small diesel engines, reducing infra red signatures. Skjold has a CODAG propulsion system with two Rolls Royce Allison 571K gas turbine engines, each rated at 6.000kW (8,160), driving two KaMeWa waterjets and two MTU auxiliary engines, rated at 275kW.

Systems

The communication systems and sensor suites are compatible with active participation in international and NATO led operations. In addition, the vessels communication capabilities are being further upgraded with a satellite communication system. VT Maritime Dynamics provides the vessel’s stabilization systems, including a ride control system which monitors and regulates the pressure of the sir cushion, by controlling vent valves and a stern fan system controlling the stern skirt pressure. The elevated position of the magnetic components helps keep the underwater magnetic signature low

Weapons

The ships are armed with eight Kongsberg NSM (Norwegian strike missile) anti ship missiles. The NSM missile is equipped with GPS mid course and a dual band imaging infrared seeker guidance and has a range in excess of 150 km. The short range surface to air missile installed is the infra red guided MBDA Mistral in a portable configuration. A twin launcher is used and it has a range of 4 km. The ship’s gun for use against other vessels and aircraft, is the Oto Melara 76mm Super Rapid. The gun has a burst firing rate of 120 rounds per minute, firing 6kg shells to a range of 16 km.

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FORTY YEARS AGO – GRANVILLE SPEDDING THE EXPRESS AIR RIDER RE-VISITED. The last magazine of 1973 included an article entitled “Looking Back”. The main item was remembering the “Express Air Rider” first reported in progress at the October 1967 Malvern Symposium. John Vass was its designer and was very modest about his achievements:- “As you have heard, some very high-powered calculations have gone into the design of many amateur craft. This is highly laudable. But you can see from a glance that the Express Air Rider is not really one of them. (Photo.1) This photo of the Express Air Rider was taken at the 1970 Schools Competition at the BP Sports Ground at Harlow. John Vass is seen wearing goggles after he had driven the craft off the see-saw ramp to show how it should be done! Having built one with lads from my first school, we counted it, to quote someone rather well known, a “disaaaaster”. This is how it ended up one sunny afternoon behind the science lab! Notice the “R” from “Rider” (Photo 2) It was too big, too heavy, designed Photo 1

more boat like than hovercraft, and for beginners the skirt proved to be a nightmare. The only ones that did well at the schools’ competition were those that had professional help with skirt design. The next photo will illustrate how this design probably put off quite a few schools from going on to design and build their own craft. Fortunately this did not stop my school from building better.

SOUTHERN HOVERCLUB RESCUE HOVERCRAFT In co-operation with the Coastguard service the Southern branch sought to fill a gap between the inflatable Inshore Rescue Boat and the Royal Naval Rescue Helicopter Flight. The rescue craft was to operate in the Portsmouth Harbour area and was registered under the HM Coastguard Shore Boat Scheme. It was claimed that this was the first time that a light hovercraft had been fully integrated into Coastguard rescue duties as a front line means of rescue. The hovercraft was based on the experimental hull constructed by Avon rubber Co., and donated to the Southern branch, who then refitted it with new engines and equipment. It was powered by one JLO 440 hiving

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Photo 2

18bhp driving two centrifugal fans for life, and one Rover V8 1500cc engine given 150bhp driving three ducted 30” dia., Multiwing fans. It was hoped that the first sea trials would take place in 1975, lasting a full 12 months. The craft was to be equipped with the latest rescue equipment and would be capable of carrying two stretchers, one on each side of the inflatable tube. There was to be two crew of pilot and navigator/observer,

Snoopy 2 - Portland

and being in direct radio contact with the coastguards would be directed to wherever it was needed. (Having had a quick flip through 1975 magazines, I could find nothing about sea-trials or any other mention of the Rescue craft being tested or in operation.)

MOLESWORTH For many years fascinating tit-bits about members, crafts, clubs, events and the gossip would appear at the end of each month’s magazine. The last magazine of 1973 was no exception. Here’s a taster selection:A Fishy Tale. Rumours have it that for several weeks after the Portland Harbour race meeting local naturalists reported sightings of a new species of jellyfish. The mystery of the new species was

soon cleared up when one of the ‘jellyfish’ was caught and identified as being a ‘Skima 25’ stern segment, rather warn and coloured fluorescent orange. A Tremendous Draught. He was still waiting to know whether an SH.2 had entered the Blackpool to Isle of Man race. Other competitors reported to be taking part included three attractive young ladies crossing the 65 miles of sea in novel ways. One was sitting on a toilet, one was on a gas meter, and the other was on a bicycle; among other entrants was a group of Morris Dancers from Leyland who intended dancing their way across. Sorry no pictures or further information.

a couple of drivers if they had any possible substitute fuels if the inevitable happened. One, whose new craft was to be renamed ‘Rocket’ had yet to solve the problem of where to store the coat. The other was collecting elastic bands and saw the possibility of propellers coming back into fashion. There appeared to be some doubts about the popularity of another fuel, chicken manure – on health grounds! Sadly my four chickens would not produce enough to generate methane!

Letting Off Steam. 1973 saw the possibility of petrol shortages which later led to rationing. Molesworth asked

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A Quiet Hovercraft Electric hovercrafts, are they alive or dead and are there any like-minded bright sparks still interested in them? About 50 years ago a chap I knew at RAF Sealand who built a beautiful model which was quite large and floated around the hanger on two long thin wires. I have always been inspired by the memory, so when I joined the club some eight years ago I had some issues with their cruising crafts; specifically the excessive noise, weight and cost, storage and trailer requirements. So I decided to try and recreate the memory of the craft at Sealand and sent off for plans for the Eagle. My idea was to construct with lightweight plywood and foam (split into two parts) weighing in at 50 kg, and within two weeks my prototype was complete. For the next couple of years I concentrated on the lift. I tried motor after motor, fan after fan, fixed and adjusted blades. Each had to be machined to connect with one another and of course I had to achieve best voltages and current for running time. After lifting more than three motors I nearly threw my hands up into the air in despair. I had started with a reasonably smart craft but it was beginning to represent a hotchpotch of failed ideas. But, I did not give up as I could see I was beginning to make progress. I decided not to be precious about the look of my craft as the aim was meet my requirements for a functional, affordable, lightweight and low noise model. Alf

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Model Hovercraft Association Model of the month The Model Hovercraft Association was formed in 2004, with a view to bringing some organisation to the development of model hovercraft, which previously had been well served by relatively isolated pockets of interest. The Association’s activities include lectures and films, videos and other visual material on all aspects of model hovercraft from research, through construction and operating. Visits to locations and firms/ manufacturers of interest, and social events are also organised. The Association is run by a Management Committee consisting of those with experience in appropriate fields. Prior to September 19th 2004, when the MHA was formed, a group of hovercraft modellers had been meeting on a regular basis at the Hovercraft Museum at Lee on Solent, Hampshire, to discuss model hovercraft and run their models. This group, called the Model Hovercraft Group, formed after the successful International Model Hovercraft Seminar held on the 18th/19th October 2003. The group enjoyed several presentations and guest speakers covering several aspects of hovercraft, full size and model. They also constructed a water feature for use during racing days at the Museum as well as a round the pole demonstrator so that children could have a go. The group

felt that as the interest was growing in model hovercraft around the country that a more formal organistion was required and hence the Model Hovercraft Association was created. If you are fascinated by model hovercraft, or hovercraft in general, and you want to join an association of like minded people, you've come to the right place.

• Research, education and discussion on the design, operating and trading aspects of model hovercraft and the understanding of the technical principles involved. • To hold meetings to further the objectives above and to present papers, films, videos etc, and to exchange information. • Regular distribution of a Newsletter. • Establishment of a database and library for books, photographic materials and papers on the history and development of model hovercraft.

With an increasing interest in radio controlled and other model hovercraft, the Model Hovercraft Association was set up to carry the development of this interest forward. If you are interested in any aspect of model hovercraft, whether it be research, design, building, or operating, then the Model of the month Model Hovercraft Association is for you. This is true if you are an Model Name: IC Gemini already established expert,or are just starting out. Model Scale: N/A Following an Inaugural general meeting held on the 19th September 2004 at the Hovercraft Museum, Lee-on-Solent, the Model Hovercraft Association was formed. The principle aims and objectives of the MHA include:-

Model Size: 850mm long X 450 wide

• The encouragement of interest in the building and operation of model hovercraft.

Materials: white ABS plastic

Help wanted - MANAGER OF INFORMATION TRAILER AND MERCHANDISE

Number of motors: 1 Power source: IC Skirt Type: bag segments combination

Interesting feature: it will go on grass at around 40 MPH Build time: 6-12 hours

We are seeking a club member with enterprise to take over the running of the information trailer and the sale of club merchandise. The job entails:- Representing the Hovercraft Club - Promoting Hovercraft Club merchandise and distributing publicity material - Bringing the information trailer to race meetings and other events where possible - Stocking the trailer with suitable merchandise - Having a suitable towing vehicle and storage facility if possible - Dealing with enquiries from the public at race meetings - Keeping the trailer in a clean and roadworthy condition Rewards of the job:- Continuing the excellent work of the previous manager - Promoting the Club - Increasing Club revenue - Full petrol expenses and insurance cover costs when towing the trailer to HCGB events If you think you might be able to help or would like to know more about the role please send an email to secretary@hovercraft.org.uk

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YOU CAN RACE THIS HOVERCRAFT This could be you! Learn to drive, compete, and gain that crucial experience of racing before you purchase your own machine. A craft is available that has been specifically built for new members to have a go at racing. It is a simple single engined craft suitable for new Novices and Juniors, and is available at most race meetings. The skill and insight you gain will be valuable in deciding what type of craft you may wish to build or buy in future. This craft can be brought to all race meetings and comes with a race kit of spares and consumables to see you through a race weekend. You will need to provide: • helmet • buoyancy aid/life jacket • overalls and gloves • petrol • race entry fee • boundless enthusiasm! Hot food and drink are often available on site. Warm waterproof clothing is recommended suitable for the British weather. At least one change of clothes is recommended, you may well get wet. A donation towards the upkeep of the craft is recommended at £50 for a 2 day race meeting. Club Membership and provisional Novice racing Licence will be required. Get membership at www.hovercraft.org.uk, you will need to register, and then add a paid subscription. Buy your Novice racing licence from the Racing Services area in the club shop, which can also be accessed from www. hovercraft.org.uk Any queries contact memberservices@hovercraft.org.uk You will also need to pass a manoeuvrability test before racing. If you would like a go or to find out more, contact Daniel Turnbull Tel 01332 700658 or email danielturnbull@btinternet.com

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AGM

March 15th-16th 2014 The 2014 AGM weekend is 15 - 16 March at the Hilton at St Georgeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Park, Newborough Road, Needwood, Burton Upon Trent DE13 9PD. Plans are progressing well. Carla Thomas and Del Smart are co-organising the event and would appreciate any offers of help, support or alcohol! The Hilton at St Georges Park is a modern hotel (built approximately 2 years ago) and includes a spa, health club and indoor swimming pool. It is a big leap upward in standard from the Hilton Northampton and includes a huge fully equipped ballroom where the evening dinner and award ceremony will be held. The ballroom has a private bar and enough space for a stage, dance floor and dining tables. During the daytime HCGB will have a large private function room with a separate large breakout area for tea and coffee plus access to the library for any other committee meetings that might be required before and after the AGM. Talks and presentations are still being planned but should include talks from Char Font and Tony Broad, a tech talk from Jamie Lewendon and presentation from One Industries regarding helmet fit and function and body armour use. The evening presentation meal starts at 7pm and includes a 3 course meal and prize presentation followed by music provided by Co-Jones. If anyone has any other ideas for talks or presentations please contact either Carla Thomas or Del Smart. All bookings need to be done on the HCGB shop.

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Photo Competition Winner chosen by: Mike Maher, Wedding Videographer from Lutterworth 1st Place: Russ Pullen 2nd: Clive Mason 3rd: Rob Sweetman With no information about any of the pictures or who took which one, Mike Maher selected first, second and third Other entries were from... Rebecca Taylor (01), Lee Willars (02), Tim Stevenson (03), & Beatrice Badelt (04)

2nd

3rd

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1st

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Hovercraft for sale F3 Meteor Racing Craft Fully recondition hovercraft currently being carried out, available in any colour that the customer would like, integrated hull fitted with standard TZR 250 engine. Brand new set of skirts fitted. This can be built to any spec wanted. Price depends on spec wanted. From £1700 upwards Call Ricky Goosey: 07875335702 For Sale – Mr Bump Lee Willars built, modified Eagle Racing Hovercraft Elegantly finished as Mr Bump Built and raced in 2012, finishing 3rd Overall in F50 Hull, Engine Frame, Steering, Splitter Plate, Fuel Tank and Skirt only (No Engine) Two careful owners, c/w HCGB Log book and very minor ‘war wounds. Engine frame to suit Rotax 503 c/w Gearbox. Stick an Engine in and your ready to race!! Collection only - £1,500.00

F3 BBV Competitive craft Shaft with front fan Turnbull design hull Blue craft TZR250 fully working engine. Located near York, North Yorkshire. Cost: £2,200 (ono) Call Fran on: 07760 417485

Contact Clive Mason Mob – 0772 9783989 Email – clivemason33@yahoo.com

local branches most of the local branches meet regularly, normally in a pub, to sit around and chat hovercraft or organise an upcoming meeting or event. feel free to contact them and they will be more than happy to welcome you along to the meetings.