September 2013 by 'Sarah Gill

HOVERCRAFT Light

September 2013

The official magazine of the

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

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

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Manufacturer and supplier of Hovercraft, kits and parts Design & Construction in Composites Mould and pattern work Bespoke engineering services 0779 3807073

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

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Stockist for Miller Race Oils, 2 & 4 Stroke

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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

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Vortex STORM LE F2 twin engine

Vortex STORM F3 UK & World Champion

Vortex STORM LE F35 Sports / Leisure

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sales@hovepod.com

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Parts, spares & online sales www.vortexservices.net

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Contents

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

“

September 2013

08 Points of the season so far Gang Warily

awley comes and Fawley goes….. the Bank Holiday weekend on the South Coasts triggers a 6-week frenzy of National Race Meetings. Only a hand full of days remains before the Campers, Caravans and Tents are rolled out in South Sheffield for Rother Valley, with the season ending finale at Towcester. Between now and Rother a hardy bunch will begin the trek across Europe to Sweden, its all go!!!

12 Round Six Rother

13 Round Seven Towecester 14 Zubr Class www.hovercraft.org.uk

Back to Fawley, like many I witnessed Russ Pullen’s craft horrifically rolling, with Russ loosing his helmet halfway through the accident. Looking back now it seemed quite surreal, and it was hard to stomach. However apart from a

truck load of bruises Russ is already on the road to recovery. It doesn’t need saying, but I’m going to anyway, the response from the Marshall’s, Medics and fellow racers was phenomenal. I won’t for quite a while forget the moment it happened as I was frozen to the spot taking it in, in a trance… during those seconds people where blazing onto the circuit from all directions to the aide of our fallen friend, we are told to wait for the red flags, but I think it was fair to say, this rule was left to slide a touch. The Orange people and Medical Team do us proud once again, when called upon they never let us down, no higher tribute can be paid to them, they are awesome!!!!! And we did keep them busy as well, coming to the aide of numerous prone or injured drivers. Whilst on the drivers we were kept in ‘check’ by our much loved and to be missed out going Race Director, Claire Mason. I think its fair to say Claire has had enough of the ongoing antics of ‘lightly’ brushing (cough cough) bendy posts. Our very own ‘Iron Lady’ did warn us on earlier in the weekend so come Monday morning her patience appeared to have ended and we informed any witnessed contact with markers would involve a deduction of points. Claire finished Monday clocking up a mighty 39 deducted points for a multitude of bendy post abuse, and in some instances contact between craft. Generally the bendy posts were left alone, which sadly will leave a hole in Bob Coles’ life now. I thank Mark Coles for this snap shot of his Dad’s life, as I’m informed the bendy post recovery suite at the Coles family home has given Bob many reasons to avoid decorating and gardening in the past!!!! Thanks Mark, and good to see you mate!!

16 Racing... South Korea Style Nick Drew 17

18 You can race this hovercraft Daneil Turnbull

20 Thank you Russ Pullen 21 Chilterns Chit Chat Makyla Greaves 22 Photo Cometition Clive Mason 23 MHA Model of the month 18

24 Merchandise Jo Discoll 26 Hovercraft for sale www.hovercraft.org.uk

As usual Fawley gave us some tremendous racing, with a reported number of around 60+ craft making the journey. The tight technical circuit never fails to provide an exciting set of races for all formulae, and long may it continue. A huge thanks goes out to the Southern Branch for their effort, fronted by the Kevin and Julia Foster and family, for once again making it happen!!! And once more the weather was ordered and delivered as requested. After Fawley its back to the Midlands, and Rother Valley, the predominately water based circuit throws a whole host of different problems to the drivers compared to the land based Fawley. A further reminder for Rother, the gates will be locked at 9.00pm on Friday night, if you know you are going to be late, could you please contact Lee Willars in advance giving notice of this, and to make any arrangements. Please see the advert for Lee’s details. On that note I will sign off, one last thing though, we are heading into the dark winter months of hovercraft hibernation, and we will still need your input to the magazine, so get those creative juices flowing and put pen to paper and send us something in and we will fit it in!!! Enjoy the magazine, and we will see you at Rother!!

Send in your articles to

Darren and Sarah

magazine@hovercraft. org.uk

Editors magazine@hovercraft.org.uk

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Cover pic: Sam O’sullivan Photo taken by: Rhiannon Black

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The Chairman’s Desk Chapter Twenty Six

Diary2013

Small ads

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

small ads are free to members and run for three issues unless requested otherwise FOR SALE OSPREY 5

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

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 .

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

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

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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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.

“

Thankful his chapter is being written just after Gang Warily race meeting. In spite of some amazing hovercraft aerobatics by the likes of Messrs Beale, Pullen and Sweetman (to mention a few) thankfully no one had more serious injuries than sprains and bruises (to body and ego)! It was a great weekend of hovercraft racing and, according to some reckoning, the sum of the points that Claire Mason (race director) was deducting for course marker contact would have made her overall winner in most formulae.

Without Dan Turnbull’s work on the Little Scrapper fleet, five people last weekend may not have been able to experience the thrill of their initial hovercraft racing. Having already built or resurrected three other craft over the past two years, Dan created Little Scrapper 4 out of a former Mark Talbott Moto hull and a Rotax 447 engine. Several members have gone on from their first race in a scrapper to owning their own and qualifying as senior competitors. And Dan still wins the F1 race! This past month has seen such events as the Irish Cruise and the Rhone raid. I took part in the former for the fifth year in succession and had a terrific time. (I must thank Kevin Foster for writing last month’s article.) Roger Morton (club secretary) successfully completed many sections of the route along with skill and competency acquired from his vast background in hovercraft. His first time at the controls of a hovercraft on water was day 2, this year, at Lough Rea. Is this called a baptism of fire or a baptism of water? At the Claydon race meeting, I handed over three hulls for the schools in South Devon to build their first hovercraft. The target for these three projects to be completed in early March and Bicton College have already pencilled in a testing day on their lake and grounds. It may be the opportunity for a pre-season Hoverin type day for those who wish to make the trip. I hope to have this firmed up and on the calendar long before then. I have been informed that the venue for the AGM and been told to keep the weekend of 15th and 16th March clear. I have been told that the venue is plusher than the last one with only a marginal price increase. It will soon be time to start saving for a great party weekend. Del Smart and Carla Thomas have already put in a lot of time and effort. I am sure that any offer to look after an aspect of that weekend will be appreciated. The proposal for the World Championships next year in Germany is going through process. The suggested dates are 5th August to the 10th August 2014. For those who wish to compete it is during the British school holidays as well. More details will be issued as they are confirmed. If you wish to discuss anything, my contact details are at the back of the magazine. Chris

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R O U N D F I V E 8

F1 no Team Magnol Hacket Cholmo Claydo GangWa season 1 Daniel Turnbull 25 15 25 25 25 115 2 Raider F1 20 25 14 20 14 93 3 Nationwide Fire F1 A 13 20 20 17 17 87 8 Nationwide Fire F1B 14 17 17 15 20 83 10 Nationwide Fire F1 C 12 13 14 15 54 25 Team Magnet 15 15 13 43 319 Conrad Beale 17 17 21 Daniel Newton 11 11 901 Team Castrol 10 10

F35 no Team Magnol Cholmo Hacket Claydo GangWa season 201 High Cross Racing 25 20 25 15 25 110 203 Team Saga Louts 20 17 15 25 20 97 219 Zoe Deacon 15 15 17 20 15 82 207 Team Gifford 25 20 17 62 204 Phil Tattersall 17 14 17 14 62 212 Bearwood F35 13 14 14 12 53 209 Natalie Cooper 13 13

F3 no Team Magnol Hacket Cholmo Claydo GangWa season 145 Ricky Goosey 25 25 25 25 25 125 142 Phil Hall 20 17 20 20 20 97 133 Storm Raptor Racing 20 15 14 17 66 143 Francis Morales 17 15 17 17 66 176 Team Finch 13 12 10 11 14 60 134 Team Broad 15 14 14 15 58 149 Nigel Walton 11 11 13 9 13 57 177 Andrew Folland 14 13 11 15 53 165 Abbessick Racing 12 12 13 37 181 Michelle Smith 8 12 12 32 136 Team Knotts 10 9 10 29 170 Andy Collins 9 9 146 David Atkins 8 8

FJ no Team Magnol Hacket Cholmo Claydo GangWa season 2 Team Beale 25 20 25 20 25 115 146 Nils Atkins 14 25 17 25 17 98 1 Sarah Foster 17 17 20 11 20 85 110 LightSracing 20 10 12 12 15 69 176 Leah Clarke 13 12 14 14 12 65 134 Christian Broad 15 15 15 17 62 152 Abi Beale 12 11 11 13 13 60 108 Katherine Stevens 11 13 10 15 11 60 185 Cullumpton College 8 9 7 14 38 15 Bearwood College B 7 10 10 27 96 Jake Shaw 14 13 27 8 Team Bristow 10 9 19 165 Abby Hook 9 8 17 14 Alistair Baines 9 9 58 Callum Sweetman 9 9 30 Jari Bach 8 8 20 Cullompton College B 8 8 102 Honor Greaves 8 8 11 BBV Juniors 7 7 161 Timmy Burke 6 6

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AUGUST 24-26 Gang Warily F2 no Team Magnol Hacket Cholmo Claydo GangWa season 31 Team Polfrey 20 17 20 20 20 97 99 Russ Pullen 17 25 25 13 15 95 50 Team Goldney 20 25 25 70 92 Section4 9 15 10 17 17 68 71 Kevin Tunaley 11 13 14 11 12 61 73 Double A Racing 13 13 14 14 54 47 Wayne Ravenhall 15 14 9 15 53 100 Team Razor 12 15 8 8 43 77 Bernie Hook 10 17 7 3 37 62 James Limburn 14 7 12 1 34 316 Team Castrol 25 25 111 John Cotton 11 9 4 24 44 Andy Griffith 11 13 24 80 Team Wiggin 8 6 6 2 22 83 Nice But Dim Racing 12 10 22 39 Phil Jakeman 10 10 20 63 Team Buzzwagon 12 6 18 75 Mark Allman 5 11 16 95 Nationwide Fire 503 7 5 12 55 Michael Lambert Racing 9 9 40 Wayne Hill 9 9 32 Fred Wilson 8 8 86 Marc Bradley Upton 7 7 130 Team Sweet People 6 6 48 Team Metzner A 4 4 64 Mark Coles 1 1

F503 no Team Magnol Hacket Cholmo Claydo GangWa season 52 Team Beale 25 20 25 20 25 115 77 Bernie Hook 20 25 15 17 17 94 48 Team Metzner A 17 14 17 15 14 77 81 Team Drew 12 15 20 25 72 73 Double A Racing 15 6 11 14 15 61 95 Nationwide Fire 503 13 8 13 7 8 49 112 Hannah Deacon 14 12 8 6 40 44 Andy Griffith 17 10 11 38 106 Razor Too 12 14 9 35 80 Team Wiggin 7 9 5 6 4 31 62 James Limburn 11 7 10 1 29 130 Team Sweet People 10 11 5 2 28 83 Nice But Dim Racing 6 13 9 28 96 Rachael Gifford 10 6 10 26 75 Mark Allman 13 12 25 88 Storm Racing 20 20 45 Team Oakley 11 7 18 41 Team Metzner C 5 12 17 111 John Cotton 2 7 4 1 14 70 Team Topaz 13 13 89 Glen Smith 9 3 12 98 Benn Bristow 8 4 12 63 Team Buzzwagon 8 3 11 103 James Eddy 9 9 55 Michael Lambert Racing 5 5 116 Ian Finch 5 5 43 Team Metzner B 3 3 102 Makyla Greaves 2 2 58 Derek Sweetman 1 1

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R O U N D F I V E 10

Open no Team Magnol Hacket Cholmo Claydo GangWa season 2 Raider F1 25 25 10 25 85 31 Team Polfrey 13 15 20 14 20 82 147 The Flying Normans 17 17 17 15 14 80 133 Storm Raptor Racing 14 25 13 15 67 8 Nationwide Fire F1B 11 10 7 2 25 55 203 Team Saga Louts 9 7 11 11 11 49 92 Section4 7 20 1 17 45 83 Nice But Dim Racing 14 13 15 2 44 47 Wayne Ravenhall 15 12 5 10 42 100 Team Razor 8 12 9 12 41 201 High Cross Racing 10 11 13 6 1 41 50 Team Goldney 20 13 33 25 Team Magnet 20 12 32 80 Team Wiggin 3 9 8 6 26 10 Nationwide Fire F1 C 1 3 17 1 22 207 Team Gifford 6 8 8 22 62 James Limburn 12 1 4 1 18 130 Team Sweet People 8 1 1 7 17 136 Team Knotts 4 6 7 17 63 Team Buzzwagon 14 1 15 176 Team Finch 6 3 4 1 1 15 45 Team Oakley 5 9 14 204 Phil Tattersall 5 1 3 4 13 55 Michael Lambert Racing 10 10 99 Russ Pullen 9 9 77 Bernie Hook 1 2 2 1 1 7 95 Nationwide Fire 503 5 5 3 Nationwide Fire F1 A 1 1 3 5 12 Predator F1 Racing 5 5 1 Daniel Turnbull 4 4 177 Andrew Folland 1 1 1 3 111 John Cotton 1 1 2 212 Bearwood F35 1 1 2 149 Nigel Walton 1 1 2 39 Phil Jakeman 1 1 2 319 Conrad Beale 2 2 209 Natalie Cooper 1 1 124 Kevin Thomas 1 1 134 Team Broad 1 1 165 Abbessick Racing 1 1 316 Team Castrol 1 1

Open F1 no Team Magnol Cholmo Claydo Hacket GangWa season 2 Raider F1 25 25 25 25 100 8 Nationwide Fire F1B 17 17 15 20 25 94 10 Nationwide Fire F1 C 13 20 20 20 73 3 Nationwide Fire F1 A 14 15 17 46 25 Team Magnet 20 17 37 12 Predator F1 Racing 17 17 1 Daniel Turnbull 15 15 319 Conrad Beale 14 14

Open F2 no Team Magnol Hacket Cholmo Claydo GangWa season 31 Team Polfrey 20 20 25 20 20 105 92 Section4 13 25 9 25 72 47 Wayne Ravenhall 25 15 13 17 70 83 Nice But Dim Racing 17 17 20 9 63 100 Team Razor 13 15 13 15 56 80 Team Wiggin 12 14 15 11 52 130 Team Sweet People 14 9 12 14 49 77 Bernie Hook 10 12 12 8 6 48 50 Team Goldney 25 17 42 62 James Limburn 15 11 10 5 41 45 Team Oakley 14 12 26 63 Team Buzzwagon 17 8 25 39 Phil Jakeman 10 11 21 111 John Cotton 7 7 14 99 Russ Pullen 14 14 55 Michael Lambert Racing 13 13 316 Team Castrol 11 11 95 Nationwide Fire 503 10 10 124 Kevin Thomas 6 6

Open F3 no Team Magnol Cholmo Claydo GangWa Hacket season 147 The Flying Normans 25 20 25 20 25 115 133 Storm Raptor Racing 25 20 25 20 90 176 Team Finch 20 17 17 15 17 86 136 Team Knotts 15 15 15 45 177 Andrew Folland 15 14 14 43 149 Nigel Walton 13 17 30 165 Abbessick Racing 17 17 134 Team Broad 14 14

Open F35 no Team Magnol Hacket Cholmo Claydo GangWa season 203 Team Saga Louts 20 20 20 25 25 110 201 High Cross Racing 25 25 25 17 15 107 204 Phil Tattersall 17 15 20 17 69 207 Team Gifford 17 17 20 54 212 Bearwood F35 15 13 28 209 Natalie Cooper 14 14

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ING

R O U N D S I X

Rother Valley Country Park Mansfield Road Wales Bar Sheffield S26 5PQ A ST RE RU A TH EST T

K OC DD PA

ROUND SIX September 7-8th Rother Valley From any direction you need to be heading for junction 31 on the M1 Come off the M1 at junction 31 onto the A57 for 1.5 miles, then turn left onto the A618 and follow the brown signs for Rother Valley Country Park The second round of the Championship takes us to the Rother Valley Country Park on the outskirts of Sheffield. This mostly water course with two short sections of land really separates the men from the boys. With high speed straights and sweeping corners craft control is tested to the limit.

Entrance gates will close at 8.00pm on Friday evening. Any person looking to arrive later than this time should contact Lee Willars, Email address willa494@aol.com Visitor Information One payment allows all day admission with the presentation of a valid wrist band.A comprehensive range of Watersports equipment including sailing dinghies, windsurfs, rowing boats, pedal boats, rafting sets, cycles and a variety of different canoes are available, both for hire and for use on courses. Wetsuits and buoyancy aids for all ages and sizes are kept in stock, although you are welcome to use your own if you prefer. For those people requiring a more active form of watersports the southern end of the main lake now provides a Cable Water Ski system! The Rother Valley Golf Centre provides a variety of facilities including a challenging 18 hole course, a par 3, nine hole course suitable for the less experienced, as well as a floodlit driving range and clubhouse. For visitors interested in cycling Rother Valley offers 6 miles of tracks and access roads suitable for bikes, most of it traffic free and ideal for children. Cycle hire is available from the Watersports Centre and the park connects directly with the Trans Pennine Trail, which currently provides 11 miles of traffic free cycling between Beighton and Chesterfield. All of these tracks are also equally suitable for walkers, who also enjoy the use of a network of public footpaths in the Rother Valley, and link into the wider countryside. Owner description: Rother Valley Country Park consists of 750 acres of parkland. It includes areas of open water, grassland, woodland as well as footpaths, bridleways and cycle routes. A haven for wildlife, as well as a centre of excellence for Education, Watersports and other Outdoor Pursuits

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R O U N D S E V E N

ROUND SEVEN September 21-22th Towcester

PA DD

ST REA RU A TH EST T

O CK

CAM

GA REA

Towcester Racecourse London Road Towcester Northamptonshire NN12 6LB Located on the A5 between Northampton and Milton Keynes only minutes from the M1 and M40 motorways and with local train links to London and Birmingham, Towcester is the perfect venue for anyone wishing to reach its nationwide clientele. Towcester Racecourse, one of the country’s most scenic National Hunt Racecourses, provides a stunning setting for business or pleasure. There are a variety of hospitality and race sponsorship packages available, enabling you and your guests to watch the racing in elegant and comfortable surroundings, whilst enjoying the thrilling spectacle of racing ‘over the sticks’. The Empress and Grace Stands are fully equipped with private balconies. They both offer glass fronted viewing of the course overlooking the home straight and are set against the spectacular backdrop of the rolling Northamptonshire countryside.

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Class overview Builders: Almaz Shipbuilding Operators: Russian Navy Ukrainian Navy Hellenic Navy People's Liberation Army Navy In commission: 1988-Present Active: 9 General characteristics Type: Air-cushioned landing craft Displacement: 340 tons (light) 415 tons (normal) 555 tons (full load) Length: 57 m (187 ft) Beam: 25.6 m (84 ft) Draught: 1.6 m (5.2 ft) Propulsion: 5 Kuznetsov NK-12MV gas turbines; 2 for lift, 3 for propulsion; 5 x 11,836 horsepower Propellers: 3 four bladed variable pitch propellers Speed: 63 knots 55 knots if sustained Range: 300 mi (480 km) at 55 knots Complement: 31 (4 officers, 27 enlisted) Sensors and processing systems: General detection radar Surface search radar Electronic warfare & decoys: Electronic Countermeasures System: Decoys, MS227 chaff launcher, ESM: Tool Box; intercept Armament: Strela-3 Portable Air Defense Missile System 4 x 4 launchers plus 32 Anti-Personnel missiles; or 2 SA-N-5 "Grail" quad launchers, manual aiming, infrared homing to 6 km at 1.5 Mach, altitude to 2,500 m, warhead 1.5 kg 30 mm AK-630 Air Defense Gun Mount 2 x 6 with 6000 rounds, 3,000 rounds/min combined to 2 km 140 mm Ogon launchers 2 x 22 with 132 rockets; or 2 retractable 122mm rocket launchers Mines (one set of removable equipment for laying from 20 to 80 mines, depending on their types)

23 AUGUST 2013 Russian sunbathers had their peace and tranquillity disturbed by a “terrible roar” as a military hovercraft weighing 500 tonnes pulled into the shore. The Zubr-type vessel can transport 400 troops at a time and comes fully equipped with missile launchers. It is capable of up to 110kmh. Video footage (below) captured the moment revellers at Mechnikovo beach, near Kaliningrad on the Baltic Sea, watched the hovercraft pull in, before paratroopers disembarked and demanded that they leave the beach immediately. Russian authorities confirmed that the ship and its crew had pulled into the beach after carrying out a routine training exercise. Speaking to the Russian newspaper Komsomolskaya Pravda, a spokesperson for the Russian defence ministry said the hovercraft was docking in an area owned by the military. "Docking at the beach is normal,’ the spokesman said. "What people were doing at the beach on the territory of the military (base) is unclear." Those on the beach were reportedly visibly upset at being made to leave, with one visitor asking: "What are the reasons for such military activity on a Sunday?"

The Zubr-class (Project 1232.2 class, NATO reporting name Pomornik) is a class of air-cushioned landing craft of Soviet design. This class of military hovercraft is, as of 2012, the world’s largest hovercraft. It is designed to sealift landing assault units (such as marines or tanks) from equipped/non-equipped vessels to non-equipped shore, as well as transport and plant mines. There are currently nine ships in active service in the world. The Zubr is used by the Russian, Ukrainian, and Greek navies. The transfer of the Kefalonia (L- 180), the first of two Zubr hovercraft purchased by Greece, to the Hellenic Navy marked the first time that a Russianmade ship was purchased by the navy of a NATO member. High strength and floatability of the craft are provided by a rectangular pontoon, the main load-carrying part of the ship’s hull. The superstructure built on the pontoon is divided into 3 compartments with two longitudinal bulkheads: combat material compartment in the midsection fitted with tank ramps, and outboard sections housing main and auxiliary propulsion units, troop compartments, living quarters, and NBC protection systems. To improve working conditions in the battle stations, troop compartments and living quarters are fitted with airconditioning and heating-systems, sound/

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heat-insulating coatings, and structures made of vibration damping materials. The ship provides normal conditions for the crew to take meals and rest. Personnel are protected against effects of weapons of mass destruction by airtight sealing of combat stations, crew and troop compartments, augmented with individual gas masks and protection suits. The ship is also protected from magnetic influence mines with the an active system to compensate for the ship’s and the transported material’s magnetic fields. The central command post and MS-227 device compartments are strengthened with alloy armour. The Zubr landing craft has a cargo area of 400 square metres (4,300 sq ft), and a fuel capacity of 56 tons.[2] It can carry three main battle tanks (up to 150 tonnes), or ten armoured vehicles with 140 troops (up to 131 tonnes), or 8 armoured personnel carriers of total mass up to 115 tonnes, or 8 amphibious tanks or up to 500 troops (with 360 troops in the cargo compartment). At full displacement the ship is capable of negotiating up to 5-degree gradients on non-equipped shores and 1.6m-high vertical walls. The Zubr remains seaworthy in conditions up to Sea state 4. The vessel has a cruising speed of 3040 knots

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Racing...

SOUTH KOREA STYLE Nick Drew

In May of this year I received an e-mail from Christel Martens, the WHF secretary, asking if I would be interested in travelling to South Korea to race in their first ever hovercraft racing event. All flights and hotels were going to be paid for and the hovercraft supplied, so it seemed like a no brainer to me. I accepted the offer straight away. Details were then sketchy for the next few months. All I knew was that it was going to be at the beginning of August. As the date got nearer some more details came to light along with a list of other drivers from around the world that were also going. These were Magnus Ivanoff (Sweden), Klaus Boenighausen (Germany), Michael Heinze (Germany), Jos Vanderhoven (Belgium), Michele Scanavino (Italy), Andrew Stelzhammer (Austria), Jaroslav Balaz (Slovakia), Kent Gano (USA), Paul Hibbard (Singapore), Owen Ellis (Australia), Denis Ragot (France) and Les Bran and Bernie Hook from the UK. So it was looking like a really good line up drivers and I was really up for the challenge of racing against some of the best in the world in the same machinery..... After chatting with Bernie and Les it was decided that we should do this properly and so plans were made to get Team GB racing overalls and matching life jackets along with some branded club merchandise. Thanks go to Jo Driscoll for getting our club merchandise sorted. So with concentrating on all the poser race wear, I had not really thought about the fact that I might need to do some prep for travelling to the other side of the world. After various trips to the doctors and travel clinics I got myself fully jabbed up to protect me from dodgy bites and infected blood if I happened to end up in hospital. Details were dripping through from our contact Sim in South Korea. He is an international sports promoter and had been tasked with the logistics of shipping us drivers over to South Korea from our various countries. We weren’t really sure where the funding was coming from or the reason behind the event. We eventually found out that they wanted to get hovercraft racing started in South Korea and a local government had put up the money to hold the first event. The news was that there were 12 Scat hovercraft over there. Four had Rotax 503 engines and eight had Rotax 582 engines in. We would be using the 582’s and the local Korean novices would be using the 503’s after we had given them some training. All was sounding good and we were getting excited about the adventure we were about to embark on! A couple of days before we were due to leave we received an email from Sim

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asking if we could bring 2500 skirt clips with us. Cue frantic phone calls and internet searching to source some clips, along with a slight worry that if they don’t have skirt clips then these craft can’t be ready yet.... We convinced ourselves that they just needed new clips to replace the ones they already had. We then received another email informing us that the exclusive bus laid on to take us on the six hour journey to Wando in the south of South Korea was now going to be a public bus and we would be met by an agent who would put us on the right one. So, eventually it was time to go. With the suitcase wedged full of body armour, life jackets and clothes, Les picked me up and we headed for Heathrow where we were meeting Bernie. All going OK so far but then we came to check in and there wasn’t any seats left on the plane! This was totally normal apparently as BA always overbook their planes because there are always people who don’t show up. After a small panic it actually turned out quite well as we got an upgrade. Not business class unfortunately but we did get slightly bigger seats and business class food. Bonus! We boarded and then spent the next 12 hours chatting, sleeping or watching films until we landed at Icheon in South Korea. After taking ages to get through customs and get our bags we were met by one of Sim’s agents who informed us we had a 2.5 hour wait until the bus left. So we headed off to get some food. We decided to try Korean food which certainly woke us up as all their food is pretty spicy! Before catching the bus we met up with Jaro and Andrew. The first bus took us to Gwandju where we would meet another agent who would put us on the next bus down to Wando. We arrived at Gwandju with no sign of the agent...... After slight concern and a couple of phone calls the agent found us. Another hour and a half later we were on the next bus along with Jos who we met at the bus garage. 12 hours after getting off the plane we arrived at the hotel. Having been travelling for about 30 hours we were all totally knackered......so we headed straight to the bar, of course. We met with Denis and Michele at the hotel and had a few beers and chatted about what we thought the weekend might bring. On Friday morning we met for breakfast where Sim told us to meet back at the hotel at 10.00 for an update. We nipped out to look round the place. It was a fishing village and we walked about and basically saw a lot of shops selling a lot of fish! Back at the hotel Sim asked us to be back for lunch as they were just putting the finishing touches to the craft and he wanted them to be ready for us when we

got there. At two o’clock we got on the bus with our gear and headed to the race sight to check out the circuit and the craft. We got to the race site, got off the bus and headed over a wooden footbridge down to the beach. There were some large gazebos set up with the craft in. We went into the gazebos to check it out. Oh dear...... There were 12 Scat hovercraft in varying degrees of completion. None were actually complete and running. Most had no skirts on. They all had engines and fans in but only a couple of them were wired up. Most needed electrics, carbs and fuel lines running. On closer inspection some of the engine, exhaust and guard mounting left a lot to be desired and there weren’t any lanyards fitted. There was a Korean chap who was the chief mechanic, who had experience of microlights so knew his way around the engines. However, neither him or his four helpers had any experience of hovercraft. The solution to this problem was obvious to us. Lets get stuck in and get these bad boys running. Unfortunately, as far as Sim and the Koreans were concerned, we were the elite drivers from around the world and could not be seen to be getting involved in the maintenance of the craft. So we were ushered out of the gazebo and told to chill out for a bit whilst they finished the craft. We knew that this ‘bit’ of time was going to take these guys forever! Eventually we headed back to the craft and started getting involved trying to get a couple of them started. After much fiddling about one of them came to life. A quick check with the rev counter showed that the engine was doing over 8500rpm. We needed to knock 2000rpm of the engine so we set about changing the blade pitch. These craft were running six 4z blades in a 750mm duct on a 12 blade hub so there really wasn’t much actual blade available to do the work. Eventually, after an hour or so of fiddling and some heated debates with the Koreans about the use of pitch pins, we got the craft revving sensibly with a full stack of twelve blades. Bernie then took it for a quick spin. He got as far as the sea before it caught fire! The exhaust had been mounted in the plenum but was touching the top deck. We worked there til about 10 o’clock. We had an electricity supply for lights and Sim bought along burgers and beer. We then headed back to the hotel for a nightcap before heading to bed. Tomorrow was race day after all! The next morning we arrived at the beach and a large stage had been set up for the opening ceremony, more gazebos had been put up (we had our own one marked

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‘Atheletes’ haha!), flags were flying, railings were put up on the beach and there were people in matching T-shirts all over the place who were all part of the team putting the event on. All was looking good apart from the slight snag that we still didn’t have any craft working! Never fear we thought, we would just get stuck in again. Unfortunately we were again asked not to help as we were the drivers, not the mechanics. Then ensued a frustrating few hours waiting. We made the most of it by swimming in the sea to cool off from the high temperatures and high humidity. Bernie and Les then set about making sand castle hovercraft. So we had a Venom and a Raider carved into the sand.

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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Eventually we got asked, in a round about way, for our help to get six craft running by 2 o’clock for the first race. We split up into groups and took a craft each and went for it. Fans were pitched, radiators moved, throttles connected, starters assembled, electrics trouble shot and rudders fixed as we all went into full race mode to prep the craft. It was made all the more ‘fun’ by the lack of tools. As soon as you put a spanner down on the deck someone else came and nicked it. It was all great fun though and a real sense of achievement when six craft made it on to the grid for the first race. In between getting the craft ready and the first race was the opening ceremony. There was a large stage set up in front of this temple type building. There was a local drumming band who were quite entertaining jumping around all over the stage whilst drumming away. We had flag bearers and speeches from various dignitaries who had put up the money to fund the event. Then it was race time.

get enough of it and really enjoyed it. The dignitaries came over to meet all the drivers. We weren’t entirely sure who they were but we shook hands with them and had brief chats. Then we fiddled with the craft a bit more, packed up and were then treated to a Korean barbecue on the beach. Result! One of the other things we were asked to do along with racing was to train up 12 Korean students. They had been waiting patiently for two days without even a sniff of a go in a hover. So we all decided with Sim that Sunday would probably be better spent getting a couple of craft running and letting these guys get some experience of driving. However, when we got back to the beach we found out that the governor had liked it so much that he had hired a helicopter to fly over and film the racing at 2 o’clock. Panic stations again as we tried to ready the craft. In the morning however, we did manage to get some training in. A few of the guys took a craft and let the students have a go. Doing laps around the beach section. Navigating cones to get an idea of how to manoeuvre the craft. They all seemed really excited and grateful of the opportunity. 2 o’clock came and we just about had five craft ready for the endurance race. I say endurance, it was 8 laps! It was Brits vs Koreans as Les, Bernie and me lined up against two Korean drivers. I’m not sure I have ever raced at such a slow speed before! After 5 laps it was only Les and me left in as the other three craft had

broken down. The chequered flag was waved after seven laps and that was the end of our racing in South Korea. A closing ceremony and prize giving followed. We worked out who had won what so that we could go up and collect the prizes. Another difference over our normal racing was that there was prize money as well. We came to an agreement that we would pool all the prize money together and send it to the WHF so they could put it towards sponsoring the Koreans to bring a craft or two to the next world championships. After that we jumped back on the bus and headed out on the six hour trip up to Seoul. We had a days sightseeing around Seoul on the Monday which was a really nice addition to the trip. So, although the trip was not necessarily what we were expecting, with all the troubles with the craft, it was still an absolutely amazing experience. It’s not every day I get asked to fly to the other side of the world to drive a hovercraft. The hospitality was great and Sim made us feel very welcome. We relished the challenge of getting the craft going and I for one really enjoyed spending time with our fellow drivers from around the world. Speaking of which, it was very interesting socialising with the other drivers in the evening over a few (quite a few) beers. But that’s another story.......

We had drawn lots for the craft as they all varied in performance and reliability so much. We had also agreed that we would put on a show for the spectators by doing as much overtaking and close racing as possible. The two minute board was walked across the grid by a model dressed in a bikini, which was a first for all of us! Not sure we would have any takers to do that at Charlies up in Blackburn on a freezing bank holiday weekend..... The next five laps ended up a race of reliability as the craft started to drop out. We managed to cobble the craft together enough to get a second race in before they all ended up breaking down. The local governor who had put up the money was there to see it all happening. Judged against our national race series, these two races were nothing short of a disaster. However, to the South Koreans who had never seen anything like it before, it was amazing. They couldn’t

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I just wanted to say thank you to the Marshals, friends and family who responded so quickly and dealt so well with my accident at Gang Warily. As I write this (Tuesday) I'm still battered and bruised but also aware I was a very lucky boy indeed. The fact that my crash helmet flew off (some say before I even hit the ground) is very worrying - no more 'D' shackle helmets for me. Its back to good old klunk-klick in future. I always thoroughly check it's tight, so the only possible idea I have is that during the race my body armour pushed the D ring to one side and loosened it. On the plus side, this was the first meeting with my bloody uncomfortable 'Thor' motorcross armour which I really didn't like at first. But the fact that my shoulder/shoulder blade isn't broken, and that the armour itself is pretty deformed is a testimony to its effectiveness. If you don't use armour, do so - in my opinion it should be compulsory. God knows what injuries I'd have had without it. The hull was already on its last legs and that really did put an end to it, so we're starting tonight on laying up a new one for Rother. By the time you read this you'll know whether I was successful or not! I'm not giving up on the F2 championship without a fight to the bitter end! Thanks too to the Southern Branch for an otherwise excellent weekend. After 6 hours laying in Southampton General hospital, I can't tell you how much I appreciated getting back to GW to find that everything was packed up and loaded. KFC has never tasted so good, and back home by midnight, it could have been much worse. Quote of the weekend has to go to my 5 year old daughter who, having been dragged away from playing with all her 'hovercraft friends' stated 'Daddy should stop falling out or he won't win races.' Out of the mouths of babes.... thanks Darling! Russ Pullen.

Chilterns Chit Chat The Chiltern “massive” held their last branch meeting at a very familiar place for all of us, aka, Towcester Race course in preparation for the last meeting of the season. I know that by the time you are reading this, Towcester would have already taken place so I am sure that we would all have had an amazing time and here’s hoping that it will have been “serious incident” free!! An end of season party for us all! (Happy 21st Birthday to Hannah Deacon) Having just got back from Fawley, it was once again a disappointing racing weekend for my good self and co. Honor, Sam and I all got out in practice and then we had a couple of mishaps ending with a weld coming adrift in the engine cowl, a bit of metal wedging itself in the fan, engine overheating, front spark plug working loose and the cylinder head then getting so hot that the spark plug casting elongated into an oval and the engine died blah blah blah!! Hopefully this will be sorted by Rother! After a quick phonecall from a certain Mr Lewenden….I then realise that my craft is going home minus not only a cylinder head but also some skirt segments as they are being packed for Sweden! Lol. The weather was kind to us over the weekend, and a huge amount of racing was enjoyed by many. After our mishaps, I then helped out on recovery for the Sunday and Monday. That added an interesting angle to the weekend and I ended up babysitting a certain Mr Pullen whilst he was being taken to hospital. I was very impressed…despite the amount of talking that I was doing, Russ managed to stay awake and my incessive talking didn’t send him to sleep. Heres hoping that your recovery is quick and you will be back in a craft soon (please please please make it a lighter one!!) Well, Sweden is almost upon us and I hope that all of the UK competitors have had a safe trip, an enjoyable weekend and that they have brought back lots of silverware. Onward and upward to Rother from here and then on to Towcester, the last race of the season . It has been a great season, and, for once this year, the weather has been awesome. The whole of the Hoverclub seem to still be one huge family, and although the competiveness streaks are still there, everyone looks out for everyone and this was demonstrated in bucket loads at Fawley. What an amazing group of boys and girls we are! Truly amazing….!!

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Photo Competition The winner of the photo comp was picked by Tony West, Transport Manager for Stephen Sanderson Transport (Market Harborough) With no information about any of the pictures or who took which one, Richard selected his two favourites The winning photo was taken by Winner... Daniel Sweetman, Second... Rhi Black, Third.... Rebecca Taylor Entries were from... Rebecca Taylor, Rhi Black, Broni Black, James Eddy, Russ Pullen, Russ Hudson, Enrico Badelt, Claire Mason, Lee Willars, Daniel Sweetman, Ross Hammond and Kev Eastwood

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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: Britten-Norman CC5 already established expert,or are just starting out. Model Scale: 1/12 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: 770 mm

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

Materials: lite ply

Help wanted - MANAGER OF INFORMATION TRAILER AND MERCHANDISE

Number of motors: 4 Power source: 2 NiMh batteries Skirt Type:? Loop segement

Interesting feature: all parts for the model were cut on a laser cutter Build time:3 months

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

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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Hovercraft for sale

Club Contacts

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

Hovercraft Club President Tony Drake Information Officer and Publications Rev Granville Spedding 26 Milverton Close Lostock Bolton Lancs, BL6 4RR Tel: 01204 841 248 info@hovercraft.org.uk

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

Chairman Public Relations Chris Daly (Council) 33 Hawthorne Crescent Burbage Hinckley Leicestershire LE10 2JP Tel: 01455 614 724 07952 643 778 chairman@hovercraft.org.uk Secretary Roger Morton (Council) 67 Albert Streeet St Albans AL1 1RT Tel: 01727 757310 07795 199009 secretary@hovercraft.org.uk

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

EHF & WHF Rep Conrad Beale Tel: 01295 771 087 internationalrep@hovercraft.org.uk prefer contacts by email please

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.

BRANCH CHAIRMAN CONTACT MTG AREA TIME

North West Gordon Taylor Gordontaylor61@hotmail.com Bolton 1st Tuesday of month 8.00pm

BRANCH CHAIRMAN CONTACT MTG AREA TIME

BRANCH CHAIRMAN CONTACT TEL MTG AREA TIME

South West Wayne Hill waynehill@bpipoly.com Bridgewater 2nd Sunday of month 12.00pm

Southern Kevin Foster kevin@mhdocs.co.uk Romsey 3rd Tuesday of month 8.00pm

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Midland Daniel Turnbull secretary.midlands@hovercraft.org.uk Barrow-on-Soar 2nd Monday of month 8.00pm

BRANCH South Downs Twig CHAIRMAN Susan Ives CONTACT kidscontrol@hotmail.co.uk MTG AREA Haywards Heath TIME 1st Thursday @ 7.30pm

Chilterns Makyla Greaves mgreaves@redcross.org.uk 07973 523370 Aylesbury 1st Tuesday of month 8.15pm

BRANCH CHAIRMAN CONTACT MTG AREA TIME

South East Russ Pullen russ@flyingfishhovercraft.co.uk Canterbury, Kent 7.45pm

HCGB Membership Carla Thomas (Council) 40 Grebe Road Bicester Oxon OX26 6EL. Tel: 01869 369944 07808 614770 carla.thomas@btinternet.com do it online at www.hovercraft.org.uk

Gill Crane (Council) 17 Cartbridge Cotgrave Nottinghamshire NG12 3PF Tel: 07891 113596 wildcatgill1338@hotmail.com Deborah Hunt (Council) 19 Glynswood Camberley Surrey GU15 1HU Tel: 07917 303063 deborah@huntmail.co.uk Ros Atkins (Council) 47 Philip Road Ipswich IP2 8BQ Tel: 07811 481103 ros@suitcasetv.com Treasurer Paula Broad 15 Sagar Street Eccleston Lancashire PR7 5TA Tel: 01257 452 883 treasurer@hovercraft.org.uk

Vice Chairman Insurance Officer Competitions Committee Chairman Kevin Foster (council) 5 Purley Way Plaitford Romsey Hants SO51 6ER Tel: 01794 322 471 insurance@hovercraft.org.uk Recreation Activity Coordinator Russ Pullen Tel: russ@flyingfishhovercraft.co.uk

Club Archivist Gordon Taylor 29 Mytton View Clitheroe Lancashire BB7 2QE Tel: 01200 426 689 gordantaylor61@hotmail.com Youth Development Keith Lovell youthofficer@hovercraft.org.uk Competitions Secretary Tracey Taylor 53 Shepherds Croft Stroud Gloucestershire GL5 1US Tel: 01453 757 226 Technical Advice Jonathan Spedding 17 Winchilsea Avenue Newark Nottinghamshire NG24 4AD Tel: 01636 672 082, 07802 714 102 jon.spedding@ntlworld.com Safety Officer Carl Smith Ellis Close Barrow-on-soar Leicestershire LE12 8PT Tel: 01509 412 993

Racing Licences Racing Log Books Diary Secretary Louise Beale louise@hovercraft.org.uk diary@hovercraft.org.uk do it online at www.hovercraft.org.uk All the above available from the online shop at www.hovercraft.org.uk Racing Scrutineering Secretary Jim Lyne (Council) 45 Starboid Road Bishops Itchington Southam CV47 2TQ Tel: 01928 612 878 jimlyne@hotmail.com Transport Officer Michael Lambert Granary House Lamberts Lane Ossington Newark Notts NG23 6JB Tel: 01636 821 302 07788 725 923 mike@ossichaff.com Web Master Chris Barr webadmin@hovercraft.org.uk

Magazine Editors Darren Clarke Tel: 07990502207 magazine@hovercraft.org.uk Sarah Gill 187 Homesdale Road Bromley London BR1 2QL Tel: 07974 466 357 magazine@hovercraft.org.uk

Club Publications (Mail Order Only) HOVERCRAFT CONSTRUCTOR’S GUIDE (£12.95 -- now £10.00) Still a useful tool in learning of the hovercraft principles and what is needed before starting to build a hovercraft

FLYING WITHOUT WINGS (DVD) (£15.00 -- now £10.00) A 25 minute DVD which demonstrates how hovercraft are used. Includes footage from sites we no longer used and now more of a historical archive. Produced in 1995.

Available on CD-R and also containing the following:Construction Regulations for Racing Hovercraft Construction Regulations for Cruising/Recreation Hovercraft Guidelines for safe operation of Cruising Hovercraft New Racing Driver Guidelines.

Most of the club information booklets are now available for members as downloads on the club website Including:-

GUIDE TO MODEL HOVERCRAFT (£6.00) Specifically produced for youngsters to make their own models using bits and pieces found around the home -- including elastic bands, card and plastic cups, etc.

Constructions Regulations for Racing Hovercraft Construction Regulations for Cruising/Recreation Hovercraft National Hovercraft Racing Competitions Regulations (revised each year) New Racing Driver Guidelines Guidelines for the Safe Operation of Cruising Hovercraft

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Racing & Cruising hovercraft 1 to 4 seats Hovercraft plans & kits 2 & 4 Stroke engines supplied Rotax engine servicing and repairs Black skirt material ÂŁ6.50 including vat Largest range of components available Engineering service for one off parts

Formula 1 National Champion 2002

K & M PRODUCTS 5 Church Street, CarIton-Le-Moorland, Lincoln LN5 9HR For Further information please send 5 First Class stamps for our comprehensive catalogue

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Tel or Fax: Ken Rigley (01522) 789842 Tel Workshop (01636) 611223 Tel Mobile 07976 776945