Brimpton fly-in pulls crowd

 MORE than 50 aircraft made it to the Brimpton fly-in on 7 May, including a Tiger Moth, Chipmunk, Auster and a Tipsy Trainer. The first event since the airfield's expansion of its car park and taxiway, many of the visitors came from the surrounding Berkshire villages.
According to the club's social secretary, Chris Wheeler, "Several of the people who came by car were interested in learning to fly.

"Many appreciate the opportunity to come and see what we're all about. It usually results in more converts!" he added.

A Pitts formation flew in from Thruxton and a "seriously rapid" Taylor Titch. There were also model flyers from the county who kept everyone entertained, with some realistic model jets stealing the show.

The event raised over £500 for the Thames Valley and Chilterns Air Ambulance, although there are hopes to improve upon last year's total of £2000 with the remaining fly-ins planned for 2006.
The improved taxiways made a real difference, allowing pilots to leave the runway quickly and reducing the workload for the radio operators and marshalls.

The next event at Brimpton is on Sunday 18 June, starting at 1030. Visitors are invited to arrive on the Saturday evening for a barbecue and can camp on the airfield. The Turbulent Team is displaying there so check NOTAMs and schedule your arrival accordingly.
W: www.brimpton-airfield.co.uk

Words: Kirsten Corrigan