Modelling Open Day - 1st June 2008

As you can see, there was a good selection of fixed wing aircraft on display brought along by members of our club. Helicopters of varying sizes & types also were displayed along with a number of Depron models, which are proving to be very popular with members.

Here, Mick Wilkinson has just launched his aircraft during one of the 'demo slots' we were allowed to fly within the tennis courts.

Not to be outdone, Dave W launches his park fly to show dad how it should be done...

Here's Dave about to go into a 'prop hang' with his model. The 'unusual' turbulence caused by the trees tested all the pilots' skills at times, but the models all went home in one piece.

Steve Glass decides to join them both in the aerial antics!

Steve later treated us to a moment of nostalgia with this Old Timer style electric .

He then proceeded to show us his own chosen method for prop trimming/balancing !!!

A little drastic, but believe it or not Steve managed to taxi his model back to his feet even with the prop in this rather sad state.

Here Mick is demonstrating the power of electric helis. These machines are proving to be increasingly popular as they offer a a very cost effective route into heli flying for the novice.

To be fair though, Dave was the star of the demo flights with his amazing routines with this T- Rex 600. Seen here inverted, Dave proceeded to put on quite a show despite the very limited space available, finishing with an 'auto' which drew massive appreciation from the public watching the flight. Well done Dave!

Staying in the Tennis Court area, the Model Car Club had a really good circuit laid out and showed just how fast some of these cars car go. I was absolutely amazed to see just how well these vehicles could grip the surface, and the acceleration from some of the cars, was nothing short of incredible.

These lads certainly know their stuff, and the range of tools used to keep them in tip top racing condition, has to be seen to be believed.

Technology really has moved on with this sport, and I am pleased to see such a strong following with many younger members taking part.

The Guernsey Model Engineering Society brought along a small selection of finished and currently 'under construction' projects for the public to drool over. The level of workmanship has to be seen to be believed, and the number of hours spent on these masterpieces of miniature engineering doesn't bear thinking about.

Dave Simon's five cylinder motor will eventually be powered by compressed air. The finish on the cylinders and crankcase is incredible.

This traction engine is an ongoing project for Alan Stevens, but is really looking the part already. Attention to detail is high and will be a fine model when completed.

John Bayait's traction engine has been attracting well deserved attention for some time now. There's nothing like 'live steam' to pull in a crowd and John's model is a fine example of the model engineer's skill in action.

Our colleagues from the GMYPC put on an excellent static display of boats of all shapes, sizes and age. Its amazing just how many of these models are in existence and only see light of day on show days like these. It was really good to see such a range of craft, not only static, but also enjoying the fantastic setting of the nearby lake.

Craft of every type were in evidence, ranging from some fine 'period' sailing ships, to the very latest in Power boats. All had one thing in common... they were all of a very high standard of construction.

There were also some unusual craft to be seen like this amphibian car and Dave Board's Hovercraft; both very successful models.

Scale warships are always an attractive subject, and there were quite a few to be seen on patrol around the lake during the afternoon. The level of detail on these models was outstanding.

Sailing craft like this were in their element on the lake as there was just enough breeze to make use of the sails. This particular model looked amazing and once again the detail in the deck and rigging was quite astounding.

We were joined by members of the 'Old Bike Gang' who brought along some real old timer yachts. The antics of these guys had us in stitches as they showed us how sailing was done in days gone by. Just as well we had the rescue boat though!!

I think this picture sums up the day best... great weather, wonderful setting and the best of Guernsey modelling on display.

Here's to next year.