July 2013 by 'Sarah Gill

HOVERCRAFT Light

The official magazine of the

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

July 2013

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Contents

July 2013 can only start this editorial piece talking about one man…. Tony Broad!!! We arrived at Chomondeley on Thursday, like around a dozen or so other HCGB members to help out with the task of setting up. It was obviously after only a few moments on site, the event organisers (not the Northwest Branch) were effectively moving the goalposts, well start line in motor sport speak!! As Friday awoke to the usual setting the course up weather of wind and rain, the chaos descended. We had all set-up camp in good faith in our allocated area, only to find the trees had been condemned and it was a no go area. Honda had also arrived lastminute.com and we’re allocated some of our area also,

it’s amazing how much leverage a 50k investment over a free invite has!! Tony ably supported by Daniel and Franklin Newton soon had us knocking posts in and off we set!! After these initial hassles things settled down, and I have to say what a fantastic weekend it turned out to be!! A lot of credit has to go to Tony as he put up with a lot of the course of the weekend, and kept smiling!! Once again the weather turned out for us which always helps and we put on a show!!! As I was on racing and Daddy duties as Kim had stayed at home with Dylan, I for once got to watch a lot of the racing, standing in the general public areas. And from the reactions I picked up on the general public were mightily impressed by us, especially the open race on Saturday afternoon. The action/chaos was started by Wayne Hill destroying the catch netting in front Race Control; soon Damian Rhodes broke down in the very same spot to Wayne. Ian Richardson had the Raider airborne on the water exit with crowds whooping as Slap lifted the craft higher and higher every time he left the Mere. With Wayne and Damian standing with their stricken craft, John Scriven made a little bit of a mess of the water exit, heading straight at Damian and Wayne duct first leaving the boys to scamper for there lives, before correcting the Razor and going on his merry way. The crowd loved it!!! To round off an eventful race, having lapped nearly everyone in field, Slap exited the Raider on the water to pass the win onto whomever was in second place, and to be honest no one knew or cared as the event of the race had the growing crowd on the edge of their seats (well if they had seats they would have been!!) What a spectacle!!! Overall being a part of the Pageant of Power can only be a good thing for us, with thousands of like minded petrol heads, and fingers crossed they will have us back again next year, I for one can’t wait!!! One final point, a personal thank you with having to juggle Daddy duties and racing, I have to thank my collection of child minders, Gaynor Goosey, Diane Brown, Jo Driscoll and Michelle Purdie. A huge thanks to you all, it’s greatly appreciated!!! We move onto Claydon at the end of July, one of the high points of the season both on and off the track!! The pressures on the Chilton’s Branch now as The Northwest and Midlands Branches have set the bar high with the weather this season; let’s hope they’ve booked it in advance!!!!

06 Diary It’s a date 07 Chairman’s Desk The latest update from our chairman 08 Race Report Cholmondeley Castle 10 Race Report Cholmondeley Castle (Race Control) 11 MHA Model of the month 12 Institution of mechanical engineers Dan Hearn 14 Round Four Claydon House 15 Party time Claydon House 16 Light hovercraft working group Brian Russell 16 Forty years ago Granville Spedding 17 You can race this hovercraft Daniel Turnbull 18 Inventor Christopher Sydney Cockerell 19 Chiltens Chit Chat Makyla Greaves 20 Merchandise Jo Discoll 21 Hovercraft for sale www.hovercraft.org.uk

Also a big thanks for all the contributors to the race reports; we have received a healthy amount after Cholmondeley!! However you can never have enough!! Keep them coming!!! See you at Claydon and enjoy the magazine!! Darren and Sarah

magazine@hovercraft. org.uk

Editors magazine@hovercraft.org.uk

Send in your articles to

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Cover pic: Tony Broad Photo taken by: Louise Beale

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Diary2013 JUNE 29-30 Cruise Morecombe Bay www.hovercraft.org.uk

AUGUST 24-26 National Race Meeting Gang Warily, Fawley www.hovercraft.org.uk

JULY 13-14 Cruise TBA www.hovercraft.org.uk

AUGUST 31-1 EHF Race Meeting Flottsboro, Sweden www.hovercraft.org.uk

JULY 20-21 National Race Meeting Claydon, Aylesbury www.hovercraft.org.uk

SEPTEMBER 7-8 National Race Meeting Rother Valley, Sheffield www.hovercraft.org.uk

JULY 26-5 Cruise Irish Raid www.hovercraft.org.uk

SEPTEMBER 21-22 National Race Meeting Towcester Racecourse www.hovercraft.org.uk

JULY 27-28 EHF Race Meeting Prudhomat, France www.hovercraft.org.uk AUGUST 5-11 Proposed International Championship Antalya/Turkey - Europe www.hovercraft.org.uk

OCTOBER 5-6 Possible Race Meeting TBA www.hovercraft.org.uk

AUGUST 17-24 North West Highland Cruise Lochcarron, Isle of Skye 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.

The Chairman’s Desk Chapter

Small ads small ads are free to members and run for three issues unless requested otherwise 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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Chapter Twenty-five, apologetic

his evening for the first time since joining the Council, I will not be chairing the meeting due to family commitments. For this, I apologise. Kevin Foster (vice chairman) will conduct it. It made me sit and think about those few members who dedicate many, many hours to the club and its direction. Without their efforts, how would the club function? It is more than two years since I volunteered to join the Council and I have received many comments about how the club could be better run but very few offers of time and effort to carry out improvements to the club. In our democratic structure, any one of you can take up a position on the Council and help control the direction of the Hovercraft Club of Great Britain. It is not an onerous task and you can put in as much or as little time as you want but some of it would be appreciated. The 1968 Hovercraft Act, and its various amendments since, has long been regarded as unwieldy and not really fit for purpose. This legislation affects Recreational and Commercial hovercraft operation in the UK. Kevin Foster (HCGB), The Hovercraft Manufacturers Association (John Gifford and Russ Pullen) and the Marine and Coastal Agency officials (the body that regulates hovercraft) and a few other interested parties, met recently to try and create improvements in these rules. Their work will eventually lead to a comprehensive set of Recreational Hovercraft building regulations that this club can adopt to supersede our rather outdated set. Charlie Peach (Magnolls Farm) is currently flying a hovercraft in very unusual circumstances. He is out in Kuwait surveying sludge ponds in the oilfields. I hope he can supply an article for the magazine. We have had an enquiry from another school near Huddersfield about building a hovercraft. There seems to be a steady flow of these first steps. Our local college wants to make hovercraft building as the BTech level 3 Mechanical Engineering annual projects. I know I will be there quite often over the next year. I am pleased to hear many positive things about our magazine. Sarah Gill and Darren Clarke put a lot of time and effort in to publish it. Without your input, the magazine would barely make two sides of A4. Please keep sending in your articles. I have heard that there may be a photograph competition in the magazine soon with possibly a caption competition as well. If you wish to discuss anything, my contact details are at the back of the magazine. Chris

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ROUND THREE JUNE 15-16 Cholmondeley Castle After looking at the course in the dark on Friday night I told myself I wasn’t going to take tons of photos as I still haven’t got round to sorting the 4000+ photos taken by me, Sarah and Stevie at Hacketts (sorry for the delay everyone). Saturday was spent watching some of the “colossal” racing provided by many of the formulas especially the boys at the front of F50 alongside helping Team Razor (and anyone else who asked) in the paddock. The gap between the two sets of racing left plenty of time for the exploration of everything else going on, including a stand which sold iron-bru flavoured sticks of rock… must be a northern thing! After eating plenty of the FREE sandwiches (3 at a time – a trick learnt from Ryan Tingley) the evening’s entertainment was taking place which ended with a very large firework display. Sunday morning took me back to last season, spannering away in my old black and orange venom after Glenn Smiths accident which resulted in the craft doing an upside-down float test. Whilst fixing the craft I was being head hunted by the marshalling team as I was needed for my role as Lead Photographer for this meeting; so I donned my fluorescent yellow clothing and guided some of the press that were there on how not to be taken out by hovercraft. Sunday’s racing entertainment peaked with a race-long battle between Francis Morales and Andy Folland in one of the F3 races. So the result of my weekend of not taking tons photos was me taking 1200+ of them!! Another great race meeting by the Hovercraft Boat Club Of Great Britain!!!!

Having organised some Coastal Race meetings as part of larger events, I truly admire Tony Broad’s efforts in organising the Mr Cholmondley-Warner event. Despite the steam coming out of his ears when I saw him Friday evening, it all appeared to settle down by the time racing started and - form a racers perspective at least - ran very smoothly. In fact, I’d go so far as to say it ran brilliantly. A huge thank-you to all the marshals , recovery and lap scorers etc who obviously worked even harder than usual to run a very punchy event with very little waiting for races - the public must have loved it! There was always something happening on the water - Race / Ribs / Race / Ribs - superb! Run like this, what a top show we put on. Coupled with free grub (or more importantly, tea!) and a decent bar (never EVER drink with Bryan White is my advice, I still feel violated a week on) with loads of other stuff to watch during the paddock break.... I thoroughly and completely enjoyed my weekend. Thanks Tony - top event, looking forward to next year! Russ (Oh yeah, the racing - went rather well....actually quite a fun track and a win in F2 did very nicely!) Picture courtesy of Rhiannon Black Photography - thanks Rhi!

James Eddy TEAM NATIONWIDE REPORT Overall the weekend of racing was good for Team Razor. The craft went well with only a few minor problems, but overall was good. Racing with Adam Polfrey and Darren Clarke was great fun in F50, i’ve never had such a good weekend of racing. It made me realise how much better it is compared to Juniors. I came 5th overall which i was really happy about seeing as it was my first full weekend of racing in F50. Cant wait for Claydon for some more great racing. Stevie Gill

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Darren is doing really well in his F50 and getting credible position in the points table. With no problems except a desire for just that little extra power he looks set to finish the whole season on a full racing card. The 3 new F1 craft are still bedding in and we have some niggling issues still to sort out. We guess it’s inevitable that with a new prototype and a new twist on a raider craft we are going to find ways to overcome teething trouble. Our biggest problem seems to be bags ripping off the raider when going sideways, Tristan lost lots and Damian got spat out losing half of the side bags in a turn when he borrowed the raider for the last open. The 2 evo’s ride really well and we don’t feel at all like they plan to throw us out over the front. Damian is belting his flat out and has got his set up about right, Keith is now tuning in on new wing fan blades and hubs to seek that special place, and hoping the random niggle with the lift engine can be resolved with fuel line changes. Really thrilling to be putting out the 3 F1’s and doing our best to put a show on. we hope the marshals will continue their support as we strive to finish as many races as we start!

First adventure of the weekend was finding a petrol station before we go to the site. We passed Cholmondeley going south (yes I know) and eventually got to Whitchurch. Had a laugh about having to cross into another county to find fuel. So we arrived around 11ish, handed the trailer to Prickle, thank you very much, threw out the Quechua and went to bed. Barry Oakley Lesson learned from this weekend at Chomondeley, all these years I thought we were racing hovercraft, turns out we are racing "boats"!!!!!!!

David Atkins Great weekend, thanks to Tony Broad for all his hard work organising and all official making it work in a such complex program of other events, a huge thanks to Kevin Tunaley (Banana Man) for his amazing welding, he put 2mm of steel back onto our lower drive shaft back to size (on Saturday night), your a star.

A great weekend - huge thanks to Tony for making it possible and for sticking with it despite the lastminute changes to the site and much else. I spent the racing sessions on the pontoon at the side of the lake helping to share the water between the ribs (big fast boats) and hovercraft. It would be fair to say that each side started by being wary of the other but after a couple of hours we were working together to achieving slick changeovers so that little of the valuable water time was lost. One of the things that I like about our club is that everyone I spoke to was so positive about the event. Yes we had to make some changes to our usual schedule, and sometimes drivers were waiting on the grid for the water to be available, but people understood the need for compromise and there seemed to be a universal determination that we were going to have a successful race meeting. I hope we can go back to Cholmondeley next year.

Next morning dawned. ‘Go to the large white tent and get breakfast’ was the statement and if you know my husband and food we didn’t need to be told twice. It felt great to be spoilt, having nourishment on tap! With craft scrutineered, we got our instructions for the race programme. Hats off to everyone making this tight schedule work. I then assumed my normal position of trying to sort out the problem with my engine. This time we had a whole selection box of jets to try, brought by Rupert. Tried as we might things still did not go to plan on Saturday for me in the races. But we had fun in the break checking out all of the other attractions on offer at the pageant. Of course we had to go via the ice cream van. Andrew and I wandered over to the other side of the track, meandered around, looked at cars, bikes and even lingered to watch the artist who was painting using remote control cars rather than brushes. Seeing Richard Noble in the ‘Speed Record’ tent was a particular highlight. In the evening we, along with others, enjoyed the fireworks that were exploding over the castle and some wine……………. Sunday, whey hey a new carburettor did the trick! Had a really good race 1, the first four of us in F35 were eating each others thrust. The racing was close. Rupert won, Rachel got ahead of Chris on about lap 6 and I was nipping at his heels as we crossed the line. I loved the applause we got from the crowd, hopefully they enjoyed the race as much as I did. Hannah was going well in the F50, although the craft looked nose heavy down the water. Turned out the cross bag was hanging off! Once sorted she was happily flying around, having a great battle with Andy Griffith and Darren Clarke in the two races on Sunday. She finished 7th overall for the weekend. The campsite was situated in the crash site for the aerial displays so we were advised not to be there during any fly-pasts. On Sunday we were packing up the tent when we could hear something coming. Less than 100m above our heads the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight cruised past. I swear we could see the expressions on the pilots’ faces. It was a fantastic display from the Spitfires and the Lancaster bomber.

Best regards,

Although we couldn’t stop for prize giving and missed the opportunity, as a family we would like to say a great big thank you to all those who were involved in organising the meeting. We really enjoyed ourselves and would love to come back!

Roger

The Deacon Family x

Glen Smith Yet another fantastic weekend. Ok, I didn't do much racing, had craft problems and ended up with a damaged arm and lots of bruising. What made it special was the people. I owe a lot of you a massive thanks - Steve Milligan for keeping my head out of the water, marshals for keeping it all under control, fellow racers and the rescue team for dragging me out, medics for sorting me out, everyone who swarmed over the craft and repaired it, Mich for racing it without crashing, Tristan for getting me to hospital, Damien for getting my van and craft home etc etc. Slightly dented bone, no breaks. Already looking forward to Claydon. HCGB rocks!

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Cholmondeley Race Report A Day at the Races – from Race Control!! The weekend began with fitting in extra admin in a shorter time frame, which was a bit of a challenge, with two wristbands needing to be issued per person, adding an extra list to go with it!!! Registration could be vastly sped up if more people paid online (a simple operation as long as its done a week or so before the event – Hint hint people!!). Only we have learned that the printer needs to be stored flat when kept in race control between meetings and that we need the entire length of the normal race programme practice time to enter all sign on data into the computer and that free Cholmondeley breakfasts are appreciated (even if we have to leave a Marshall in the queue to get it!). The Safety Officer decided to scrap grid position 4, which in turn meant all the grid sheets had to be hand written, causing another time issue! We managed to set up a ‘piggyback’ laptop to the main computer to enable us deal with points and problems without holding up the racing. (Hopefully this system will work for the rest of the season – fingers crossed). Mr Beale very kindly popped in and asked if anyone would like a cup of tea, (the lap scorers appreciate this – hint hint again). Mr Drew then kindly informed he actually wasn’t going out in the Open Races, and asked if anyone else needed to? So we pointed him at the Gridettes, saving us another job!!! In the first session of racing on Saturday, the computer and printer decided not to talk to each other. This I.T. issue meant no points could be printed out during racing!!! The result of this meant staying behind at lunchtime to print the sessions points out! This problem however was fixed as racing had to be held to enable an Air/Sea Rescue demonstration, and this allowed Keith Oakley time to weave his magic. The scorers enjoyed the performance of crafts 99 (Russ Pullen) and 92 (Wayne Hill),

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they said it was a close race between them and very exciting! OMG (Oh My God – in case your not down with the kids) – We get a break after the first session!!! The first open race at the start of the second session was interesting, Wayne Hill decided to wipe out all the catch netting in front of race control!! The computer then ‘said no’ and both paper lap scorers lost craft during the race, so during the next race the ‘Admin’ Team reconstructed the race from the running lists and found a correct result…. (The lap scorers have decide that all future open races should be cancelled as they don’t like them!!). After a run to the refreshments tent for tea and cake everyone was refuelled and ready to go again!! The next few races went smoothly, both on and off the circuit, which made life a little more pleasant. The only thing we all had to worry about now was our partners, daughters, sons and friends who were out racing. Just before the Junior race, three lap scorers needed a toilet break (must be something to do with all the tea drunk earlier). Their wishes were granted with an Admin person replacing one in turn, just in case the race started. Luckily thanks to the Ribs on the lake there was enough time for the three-person toilet relay to be completed, with the last leg being completed just before the juniors completed their first lap, it’s all in the timing! A big thanks to the unnamed person from Race Control for the contribution!! Cheers Catherine Lucas its greatly appreciated… oooppss!!!

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, Model of the building, or operating, then the Model Hovercraft Association is Model Name: SRN6 for you. This is true if you are an already established expert,or are Model Scale: 1/16 just starting out.

month

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:37 inces

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

Materials: ply on balsa framework

Help wanted - MANAGER OF INFORMATION TRAILER AND MERCHANDISE

Number of motors: 2 Power source: Two 2650 mAh 3 cell Lipo Skirt Type: Bag

Interesting feature: clear plastic added to the rudders to improve handling but don’t distract from looks Build time: 4 months

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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Institution of

MECHANICAL ENGINEERS

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The Prime Minister, the Rt. Hon David Cameron MP, has today announced a new initiative which will help create 100,000 registered Engineering Technicians by 2018. Working through new and established apprentice schemes, the initiative aims to create 100,000 Engineering Technicians by giving them structured on-the-job experience built upon a recognised academic qualification. On successful completion of their apprenticeships, and by ensuring the appropriate skills and competencies are reached, each apprentice will be able to attain the globally recognised professional registration designation of Engineering Technician (EngTech). The initiative has been created by the Institution of Mechanical Engineers, Institution of Civil Engineers, Institution of Engineering and Technology and the Gatsby Foundation in response to the emerging skills gap in the engineering and construction sectors. Today’s announcement of the new apprenticeship initiative was made alongside the full-size replica of the British Bloodhound Super Sonic Car on its first visit to Downing Street. The 13m jet-and-rocket propelled car aims not only to beat the current land speed record of 763mph in 2014, but also to be the first land vehicle to exceed 1,000mph by 2015. Current estimates suggest that the UK needs to double the pipeline of new recruits into engineering, construction and manufacturing professions by 2020 to avoid a severe skills shortage, which could inhibit the growth of these vital UK sectors. Mr Cameron said: “British engineering and innovation are a part of our history that we are rightly very proud of and our engineering excellence continues to change the world that we live in for the better. Bloodhound is a fantastic example of what our engineers can achieve. “Apprenticeships are at the heart of our mission to rebuild the economy, giving young people the chance to learn a trade and to build their careers, creating a truly world-class, high-skilled workforce that can compete and thrive in the global race” Stephen Tetlow, Chief Executive of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers, said of the apprenticeship initiative: "The Institution and its partners are concerned that the number of people pursuing engineering careers is just not enough to meet the current and future demands of the engineering, manufacturing and construction sectors. “To help UK companies succeed in this ever-growing competitive global marketplace, we need people with

the highest professional skills and abilities. “This initiative will ensure that the UK has a growing stream of Engineering Technicians being developed to a level that is recognised and respected around the world. “We are pleased that Mr Cameron recognises the importance of Engineering Technicians to the UK’s engineering, manufacturing and construction sectors." Professor Barry Clarke, President of the Institution of Civil Engineers said: “If we want world class infrastructure, fit for the 21st Century, we must have a world class engineering workforce to deliver it. “Engineering Technicians - who exercise very specialist skills and techniques and solve complex problems - form a vital part of the skills mix and ultimately help to deliver projects efficiently and on time. “Our work to boost the number of Technicians, and ensure they are recognised in society, is crucial if we are to have the right skills to meet the challenges ahead. The much welcomed backing by the Prime Minister today is testimony to its importance.” Dr Tony Whitehead, Director of Policy at the Institution of Engineering and Technology, said: “Increasing the pool of home grown technical skills in the UK is good for our economy and good for individuals. The pace of technological development in the modern workplace is creating an urgent and growing demand for higher levels of technical skill and professionalism. “This initiative will help to meet the need to up-skill and increase the pool of home grown talent. More Engineering Technicians in the workforce will help us to maintain a competitive edge and boost growth in the UK economy through innovation and creativity.” The Prime Minister also met apprentices from a number of leading manufacturing and construction companies, including Perkins Engines, Caterpillar, Rolls-Royce, MBDA, Halcrow, BBMV, NG Bailey and Mott MacDonald. In addition, Year 10 pupils from Barclay School in Stevenage, who all hope to become engineers and scientists, will meet with the Prime Minister. The Bloodhound SSC project was launched in 2008 to help inspire the next generation of British engineers and scientists. The record attempts will be undertaken in South Africa by Wing Commander Andy Green, the current world land speed and supersonic speed record holder.

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Claydon House Middle Claydon Buckinghamshire MK18 2EY

THRUST TEST AREA

PADDOC

CAMPING AREA

ROUND FOUR July 20-21 Claydon House Set in the beautiful grounds of Claydon House, this race site is perfect for drivers and spectators alike. The river bank rising up towards the house lends itself superbly for spectator viewing, with a view the length of the water section, as well as both land/ water transitions, and most of the land sections. From a drivers point of view, the undulating terrain and numerous obstacles require considerable skill, especially with the challenging land/water transitions at either end of the water section. Site & Facilities: • There will be toilets in the paddock, in the campsite & by the bar which will be monitored and emptied as necessary. There will also be an Elsan Point, for the emptying of your personal facilities. • A fresh water standpipe will be available to the left of the site entrance approx 100 yards. • A skip will be provided for all rubbish, please ensure that none is left behind – this will enable us to continue using Claydon for many years to come.

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• Site fees are £5 per person per day for members and £7.50 for non-members. Paddock pass wristbands are only obtainable on receipt of site fee payment at Race Control. Please remember that everyone must pay this, not just racers and campers; you are only adding to next years fees if you try to get away with not paying for the facilities provided for all. Anyone not wearing paddock pass wristbands will be expelled from the paddock. • The Assistant to the Race Director will be Darren Wallace. Saturday Night Party Food this year is again supplied by the superb Cuisine Excellence who have a proven track record of catering “In the Field” and do a superb job for us year after year. Please book online at www.hovercraft.org.uk to pay by card, in the Claydon Race Meeting section under Racing Services. Tickets will not be available on the day.

Claydon’s Party Night Saturday 20th July 2013 This year at Claydon we are giving you the chance to be creative with fancy dress theme being anything starting with the letter “P" i.e. Policemen/women, Penguins,Parrots,Pirates,Princess or even Playboy Bunnies - you get the picture.

Please book and pay for your Tickets online at www.shop.hovercraft.org.uk look for Racing Services,Race Entry Fees then Claydon meeting.

These are just a few ideas to get you all started but let your imagination run wild and see what you can come up with. On the Night there will be a competition and a Quiz with Prizes to be won followed by music later on.

So Book NOW and join in the fun...........

The last date for booking your meals is Saturday 13th July 2013.

Thank you for your support.

We are pleased to be able to offer meal deals for both events. We will be offering a 2-Course Meal as usual, so please join us, the menus are below. Claydon - BBQ - 20-07-13 Marinated Chicken Pieces with Spring Onion, Soy Sauce & Ginger Glazed Pork Butchers Sausages Or Vegetarian Selection (V). Both with Mixed Green Salad, Tomato & Cucumber ; Crunchy Coleslaw ; Pasta Salad ;Potato & Sweetcorn Salad ; French Bread & Butter. For Dessert a choice of Chocolate Mousse Or Tarte Au Citron. Towcester- 21-09-13 Chicken Chasseur & Rice Or Pork In Cider & Rice Or Stuffed Peppers (V). Both with a Selection of Vegetables ; French Bread & Butter. For Dessert a choice of Banoffee Gateaux Or Chocolate Mousse. Meal Tickets are Adult Claydon only £9.90. Claydon and Towcester £18.20 Child 11 and under for Claydon only £7.70. Claydon and Towcester £14.00

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LIGHT HOVERCRAFT WORKING GROUP There are a number of developments that have taken place recently regarding the administration of hovercraft. The first is the formation of the Hovercraft Manufacturers Association (HMA) – Chairman John Gifford of Griffon Hoverwork and Russ Pullen of Flying Fish as Secretary. In parallel and under the Government’s Red Tape Challenge, the legislation governing hovercraft construction and operation is being reviewed. This is being done initially by a Working Group, made up of those invited to attend by the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA), and chaired by Simon Milne, Manager of the MCA’s Vessel Standards Branch. The first meeting of the Group was held at the MCA HQ in Southampton, on Wednesday 5th June, attended by hovercraft manufacturers and operators, members of the Hovercraft Club of Great Britain (HCGB) – Ian Brooks and Kevin Foster, the Hovercraft Society – Mike Mooney, Royal Institute of Naval Architects – Brian Russell, Class Society Lloyds Register, the MCA and business organizations. As stated in the meeting calling notice: “The reason for setting up this Industry Working Group is that current regulations for hovercraft are impractical and out of date, however the Coalition Government policies are firmly against new regulation and instead the Government encourages industry to take greater responsibility for its own work, and to participate in open policy making. The Government has also signaled, in the outcome of the Red Tape Challenge, that the current Hovercraft Act 1968 and Hovercraft (General) Order 1972 (and regulations made under them) are to be revoked when the opportunity allows, thus permitting more appropriate standards to take their place”. After general introductions, Simon gave a comprehensive history of hovercraft and appropriate marine vessel administration, from the early days under the Civil Aviation Authority and HCGB (for hovercraft weighing less than 1000Kg and not used for hire or reward), to the current situation under the MCA. He stated that the British Hovercraft Safety Regulations (BHSR) were last updated in 1985 and were set aside in 1996 as being too complex. Under the High Speed Code (HSC), sea going hovercraft are treated as merchant ships. Workboat regulations covered some fast vessels and approval under MGN 280 was sometimes employed as an alternative to the HSC. Another avenue was via OAN 717 (Operational Advice Note), which gave certification, but not to any identifiable standard.

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Hovercraft need to comply with road and sea safety regulations. Currently International Maritime Organisation (IMO) regulations application to larger hovercraft carrying over 20 passengers, works after a fashion. Craft less than 24m long and carrying around 12 passengers are currently under the HSC, but difficult to administer with many exemptions often required, and might be better served via an MGN. Light hovercraft, as they are not capable of acting as vessels, could be considered as work equipment and come under Health and Safety at Work regulations. HMA Proposals The HMA had put a lot of work into tabled documentation that helped define the way ahead, with four suggested classes of hovercraft, with two being split into two sub divisions. These were: Ultra-Light, Light, Medium up to 12 passengers, Medium 12 to 120 passengers, Large Cargo and Large Passenger. Various parameters such as length, un-laden weight, maximum passengers, maximum categorized waters, environmental limitations, suggested certification for hovercraft and operations were listed. Prior to lengthy discussions on this documentation, it was stated that Categorized Waters were defined in an MSN and covered rivers, estuaries and in the local area, the Solent. Some minor alterations were adopted and the requirement to cover petrol engines (recreational hovercraft) and diesel engines (commercial hovercraft) was noted. Pilot Qualifications and Training Type rating is currently required for commercial use and it was accepted that experience needed to be gained in a wide range of environmental conditions. It was generally agreed that it would take the order of fifty hours to gain this required experience. Ian Brooks (HCGB), said that in the Club, Level 1 – Basic competence was gained after 5 hours experience, Level 2 – First level of competence: can handle the hovercraft, can navigate and operate in different conditions was gained after 20 hours experience and finally Level 3 involved 45 hours experience and qualified the pilot to train others. It was emphasized that these levels were recommendations and not mandatory. Hovercraft Surveys Attention was then turned to survey requirements, starting with the Ultra-Light craft. Currently some craft were surveyed by companies such as MEKAL, but suitable personnel were in short

supply. Simon pointed out that that the RNLI and Burnhamon-Sea rescue hovercraft were exempt, under Memoranda of Understanding. The proposal was for the hovercraft owner to be considered a competent person, surveying their own craft to an agreed standard. The need for independent agencies to complete surveys was to be reviewed. For Light hovercraft, less than 24 metres long, Merchant Shipping Regulations applied, with surveys by MCA or Class being a possibility. Similarly, future arrangements need to be reviewed. However, for Medium and Large hovercraft similar arrangements are likely to continue. Other Matters It was stated that the creation of hoverports – such as at the Hovercraft Museum – was merely a means of allowing hovercraft operations from a designated site. Discussion about engine definition suggested that the upper limit for petrol engines used in Light hovercraft was 150 hp and that for the diesel engines used in Medium hovercraft 250 hp. Regarding safety equipment, life rafts were not generally carried on smaller craft and it was agreed that all persons in an open hovercraft should wear life-jackets, but there was uncertainty over the need for personal beacons. Actions The following actions were agreed: • More work was to be carried out on the HMA proposals • Lloyds Register and Griffon Hoverwork would look at what was required for larger craft • Ian Brooks would prepare a paper on interfacing with Local Authorities • The request for clarification of type rating by MCA Seafarer Standards would be chased. Concluding Remarks The meeting was extremely productive and held in a spirit of co-operation. The MCA are to be commended for taking this initiative to make the regulation of construction and operation of hovercraft less onerous in the future.

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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“

ritish inventor and engineer Christopher Sydney Cockerell invented in 1955 a swift water-transport vehicle that was not quite a boat, not quite a plane, but a hybrid of sorts: the hovercraft. Cockerell was born on June 4, 1910, in Cambridge, England. His father, Sir Sydney Carlyle Cockerell, was a distinguished devotee of the arts who served as director of the Fitzwilliam Museum and later as

private secretary to Sir William Morris. He reportedly expressed reservations when his son made the decision to study engineering, but he supported him nevertheless and would later finance some of young Cockerell’s early patents. Cockerell earned an engineering degree from Cambridge University's Peterhouse College, and worked for the Radio Research Company until 1935. That year he joined the Marconi Wireless Telegraph Company. There he was deeply involved in developing radar systems for use during World War II. He was named on 36 patents during his tenure with Marconi and was credited with inventions such as an aerial direction finder used by airmen during the war, as well as equipment used to pinpoint locations of German radar stations on the northern coast of Europe, which were then bombed in preparation for the Allies' Normandy invasion in 1944. In 1950, Cockerell left Marconi to manage a marina that he and his wife had purchased in Norfolk, England. While living in Norfolk he began thinking about the concept of a heavy craft that could be supported on an air cushion and skim along the surface of a body of water without the drag produced by friction. He began experimenting with vacuum cleaner tubes and empty aluminum cans and found that when placing a small can inside a larger one and blowing air through the smaller can, it hovered above the bottom surface of the larger object. By 1955 he had a working prototype and pursued a patent on his creation, which he dubbed a "hovercraft." He obtained a patent in 1956. That year he demonstrated his prototype craft, which used air blown out of the bottom of the craft under pressure, to British authorities, and showed that it was possible to enable such a vehicle to glide easily over water, land, even mud, and marshes. Meanwhile, American Charles J. Fletcher had invented a similar

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device called the "Glidemobile" during WWII; his design was classified by the U.S. Dept. of War, which denied Fletcher the right to patent the invention. Cockerell, however, having come up with his concept all on his own and having been the first to patent, is known as the father of the hovercraft that would come to be known and used around the world. In 1958, shortly after Cockerell unveiled his prototype in England, the country's National Research and Development Agency paid for an experimental vehicle based on his design to be built by a boat-building company called Saunders-Roe. The SR-N1 was launched on June 11, 1959 and later that year crossed the English Channel, from Dover, England, to Calais, France. The NRDA established Hovercraft Development, Ltd., to develop the craft for commercial use and signed five companies up to build them. Cockerell served as director and technical advisor until 1966. The first passenger-carrying hovercraft was introduced in 1962, called the Vickers VA-3. Cockerell earned more than 50 patents on the hovercraft, while working for Hovercraft Development and while working independently. He was knighted for his services to the engineering field in 1969. From 1974 to 1982, he served as Chairman of Wavepower, Ltd., a UK effort devoted to research on converting the energy of seawaves into electricity. He died in 1999. Popularity of the hovercraft, meanwhile, has continued to grow while manufacturers have improved on Cockerell's original concept. Since its introduction, the hovercraft has been used for human transport, for oil crew boats, for travel over mud and ice in challenging climates, by national coastguards, military personnel and fishery patrols. Air cushion technology based on the hovercraft concept has also been used in fixed track systems, such as the Aérotrain, an experimental high speed hovertrain built and operated in France between 1965 and 1977; and the Dorfbahn Serfaus, an underground air cushion funicular rapid transit system which has been operating in Serfaus, Austria, since 1985.

Chilterns Chit Chat Makyla Greaves Some of the dinosaurs amongst you will remember the days of the Chiltern Branch articles, Chiltern Chit Chat, well, we have decided to reintroduce it….so here goes! We have had some recent changes in the Branch. Barry Oakley, our longstanding Chairperson has decided to step down but to continue to help from the sidelines. Over the years, Barry has contributed greatly on every aspect and activity that the Chilterns take part in, and, although he will be remaining very active in the Club, he has hung up his chairmans slippers. A huge thank you Barry…..you are going to be a tough act to follow. Now, a bit about that act…..I have taken over as Chair (OMG) but I am being assisted by my stool (get it, chair, stool lol…..sorry), the one and only Prickle. Alison Wallace is still going to be our right hand women though who works so hard with arrangements for both of our race meetings, not to mention, our socials. A huge thank you to you Prickle for assisting me and to Alison for keeping us both in check. Something tells me, that is not going to be easy task! Now, I would like to write about something that is very personal to me, someone who influenced me and who is solely responsible for me being part of the HCGB. My Uncle, David Council, very sadly passed away in Stoke Mandeville Hospital on May 23 after a drawn out and complicated illness. He had been in hospital for 5 weeks and his health deteriorated rapidly. He spent his 77 Birthday with us all in hospital on May 16. David became one of the first members of the HCGB and so far, the earliest membership detail I can find is to 1968. I have been able to spend a lot of time over the last week, looking through old magazines. I think that David has pretty much kept all of them from when he joined. Boy, it is making interesting reading. His membership number was 413 and the earliest membership for me I can find is for 1978 and my number was 1469. It cost £12 for the both of us.

I can tell you that the Chiltern Branch became a club officially in February 1968 and was affiliated to the Hover Club of Great Britain. At that time, they had a membership of 16 of which 12 were 100% keen. Keen to build their own craft and attend the meetings that were held at the Railway Hotel in Boxmoor near Hemel Hempstead. David a member of the Chilterns branch , kept every letter he wrote I think. I have been reading through all of the letters that he has carefully filed…this is an example of letters I have found and is dated 27 August 1969. It was to other Chiltern Branch members It begins…. Your favourite branch of the HCGB is exhibiting at the High Wycombe show on Saturday 6 September and your presence to staff the stand would be appreciated. Another rally is to take place at Weston Park near Shifnal, Salap. Practice will take place on the Saturday and the rally on the Sunday. Park entry fee 5/-d applicable to everyone. Strict scrutineering. Course length approx. 1000 yds including 85 yds of water. Insurance for Sunday only, available at £2. To those it may concern, your subs are now due. Please send or give your “ten bob” asap. He took many different positions within the club including marshalling, organising, building craft. He also had a passion for cruising events and we spent many a happy holiday in Barmouth, Wales or on the Lochs in Scotland. It was all down to David that I started to have an interest. It was difficult not to really as David did not have children of his own and kind of adopted both my Sister and I. I couldn’t wait for the race meetings and although I had a break for a few years, the friendships that I had from a very early age are still there today and stronger than ever. On top of this of course, all the new friends that I have made just make me feel like I belong in such a huge family. Guess what…just when I thought I could

keep it all to myself, Honor decided that she too wanted to get involved. Fantastic…a chip of the old block so to speak. Anyway, a craft was put together with help from others (you know who you are), and I started my Novices again and Honor started in Juniors. I can honestly say that the Juniors just now are amazing and it has taken me back to my day as a Junior (yes, I can remember that far back!) Honor has made some amazing friends and I can see history repeating itself. I have David to thank for all of this, the way my life has taken the journey it has is due to the influence that he had. By the time you will read this, we will have laid David to rest and he is suffering no more. A man who I will never forget. I would just like to say a huge thank you for all the messages, cards and words of support that I have received. Very much appreciated. David did have one last wish and this I will be carrying out at Claydon which was his favourite race site after losing Stanford Hall. All will be revealed then! Back to the Chilterns Branch, we have decided to change location for our meeting place for the next two meetings. On the 2nd Tuesday in July, we will be meeting in the Red Lion, Bierton, Aylesbury. Meeting starts at 8pm sharp (we all get there earlier and have food, anytime from 7.30pm) and, our August meeting will be up at Towcester finalising the race meeting their in September. Well, I would say, look forward to seeing you all at Cholmondley but that would be pretty pointless as we would have already been there and got back by the time this is printed. With Claydon in mind, don’t forget to get your thinking caps on for the fancy dress…something beginning with “P”. If anyone out there would like to assist working on the gate rota, then please get in touch so that we can include you. Phew, well that’s the first one done anyway….

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Prices of HCGB Logo Merchandise Soft shell jackets – black or navy - £35.00 including embroidered club logo on breast & back Fleece zipped jackets – all colours - £22.50 including embroidered club logo Hoodies – all colours (other than orange) - £ 20.00 including embroidered club logo Ladies fit short sleeve T shirt – all colours – £12.00 including embroidered club logo Ladies fit long sleeve T shirt – all colours - £15.00 including embroidered club logo Men’s short sleeve T shirt – all colours - £12.00 including embroidered club logo Men’s long sleeve T shirt – black only - £15.00 including embroidered club logo & printed logo down right sleeve Unisex short sleeve polo shirts – all colours - £15.00 including embroidered club logo Unisex long sleeve polo shirts – all colours - £17.00 including embroidered club logo Baseball Cap - £7.50 including printed club logo Woolly hat - £7.50 including embroidered club logo Fleece hat - £7.50 including embroidered club logo Kids Hoodies - £14.00 including embroidered club logo on breast Kids Zipped Fleece Jackets - £14.00 including embroidered club logo on breast Kids short sleeve T shirt - £6.50 including embroidered club logo on breast Mouse Mat - £6.50

All-in-one race suits – navy – N/A Two piece water proof sets – black - £25.00 Puncture repair kits - £1.50 Kids ear defenders - £7.50 Ear caps – £1.00 Lipsyl - £1.50 Sun cream - £3.50 The Hovercraft Story Book - £8.50 5 Postcards in frame - £22.50 4 Postcards in frame - £20.00 Powered Model Kit - £15.00 Combat force Hovercraft - £3.50 Logo Pens – 40p Thermal Mugs –£6.00 Mugs – £7.00 Key rings –TBA Wrist bands - £1.00 Umbrellas – £15.00 Cotton Shopping Bags – £5.00

Only available to HCGB members Hoodies – orange - £20.00 including embroidered club logo, own name printed on right breast (optional) and HCGB Marshall on back. Unisex short sleeve T shirts – orange - £7.00 including printed club logo Sweatshirt – orange - £17.50 including embroidered club logo, own name printed on right breast (optional) and HCGB Marshall on back

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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

BBV F3 F3 shaft driven BBV Red and green hovercraft powered by a Yamaha Tzr 250 engine. Prefect beginner craft comes complete with a trailer to transport. This craft is ready to race. Grab a bargain for £1800 the lot. For any more info or questions please Contact Ricky Goosey on 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 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.