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We had hoped to attend a
Devon Strut event at Branscombe but with fog forecast in the channel and the
aeroplane going in for its C of A on our return we didn’t want to risk being
stuck away from base.
Decided to go for a
flight around the local patch, calling in on Popham for fuel and lunch on
the way back. We departed from 29 in very light wind conditions and good
visibility. Initial track was ESE to pass South of Popham and take us to the
edge of Alton. Then it was due South heading for the microwave tower on
Butser Hill.
When in the South Downs
area and looking south the fog banks in the Solent were very visible and
they were breaking up in a great swirl somewhere over the town of
Portsmouth. We continued South to the edge of the fog bank and then turned
East to run along the edge of it. The fog appeared to extend forever and it
was nice to know there was a clear view of land on the North side of the
aeroplane. As we continued East the fog had gone further inland. All of
Selsey Bill was covered and in the Littlehampton area the fog was not far
South of Arundel.
From overhead Arundel we
turned North and headed for Dunsfold Aerodrome as it can often be spotted
while many miles to the South and is a good navigation fix. Passing close to
Dunsfold we complied with a Notam that asked for passing traffic to call
Dunsfold as their movements were increasing. We called but got no response.
Sadly I believe all stories about Dunsfold increasing its aviation activity
are totally false and designed to make the locals view the construction of
housing more favourably. Living very close to Dunsfold we would love to see
this fantastic airfield returned to full time aviation use.
After Dunsfold we
continued North to Cranleigh and did a couple of turns over our friend
Paul’s house where he is constructing an Escapade. If the Escapade is in the
garden its bright yellow colour provides another good navigation fix.
From Cranleigh we turned
West passing South of Guildford, South of Farnham and finally South of Alton
before positioning to join via a right hand circuit for 21 at Popham. We
took on 73 litres of fuel and had lunch there.
We departed Popham and
back at base entered the last flight in the log books before turning the
aeroplane over for its never to be forgotten C of A! |
