GS Aviation Europe Ltd. Flexwing and fixed wing (3 axis) microlight training near Marlborough, Wiltshire

Clench Common Aero Club and GS Aviation NEWS and Events

Clench Common Aero Club Forum

2010 Forthcoming Events

Saturday/Sunday 17th/18th April 2010
Fly in on the Saturday afternoon with BBQ, beers and socialising on Saturday evening (BBQ will be lit around 5 o'clock), snacks available from 1 o'clock and camping available on the airfield. Egg rolls, tea and coffee available on the Sunday morning before you fly back home!

Saturday/Sunday 1st/2nd May 2010
Popham Microlight Trade Fair.

Dates to be confirmed. St Secondin Annual Fly-In and BBQ
This time with a band as well. It looks as though Blois has moved to 4/5 September but we are being requested to run it the previous weekend so that it ties up with the UK bank holiday. We hope to take the Eurostar, C42 and GT450 this year plus some members own aircraft. Interest already expressed from old timers Dave Slater, Nigel Leak and Graham Jeffries. Interested first timers and new comers Nigel Barnes, Brian Goldsmith, Collin Langley. This year we are going to be having the BBQ and drinks on Saturday. Arrivals will be welcome throughout the Saturday afternoon with the BBQ being lit in the early evening. The BBQ and drinks will be charged at cost and camping is available on the airfield. Once the sun sets it is tradition to head to a local bar where the fun continues. On the Sunday morning fried egg rolls are available. Contact Tel 01672 515535 Email info@gsaviation.co.uk for more information.
Useful French website Airfield charts and Olivia

NEWS

Saturday 6th March 2010
Clench flyout to Enstone. A great success. Day started overcast but as per forcast cleared up at noon. The teams were Nigel L plus Tania in the Eurostar, Terry W with Dave S in the C42. Nigel B and Dave C in the GT450 outbound, Petra and Dave C return, Richard J and Graham S in the Quantum, Martin in his Mistral with Graham J, Russ from Redlands in his Eurostar, Kevin L from Redlands in his Ranns. Ken C in his Skyranger possibly with Colin L. Julian M in his Mistral and possibly Petra out, Nigel B return. Some went direct with a Zone transit of Brize. Some went the longer route via Oxford and Bicester. Thanks to Russ for helping out again after another Eurostar puncture. Thanks to Enstone Microlights for their hospitality.

Week 22 to 26 February 2010
Instructor successes! A very well done to Dave Cox for his upgrade to examinimg instructor. This means that Dave C can conduct GSTs and can now completely cover training from ab initio through to GST licence either in UK or in France. This skill level is no mean achievement and he deserves are congratulations. Another very well done to Dave Slater on passing his upgrade to full instructor rating. This again is a significant step forward and allows Dave S to be the instructor in charge of the airfield, to be able to send off first solos and first cross countries, and to supervise assistant rating instructors. Members please remember that instructors have a relatively tough time putting up with all us trainees and pilots so always be willing to help out, arriving on time or early, rigging, derigging, taking covers off, putting on, fuelling, making coffee, looking after new visitors etc.

Saturday/Sunday 20/21 February 2010
Sunday, despite a misty start, became a good early solo day with Nigel B (GT450) and Alistair (Eurostar) both ramping up their solo hours. Congratulations to Mo first solo cross country on Saturday. C42 to Popham. Nigel L started to get some cross country in for this year with two trips to Brimpton and one to Popham. This gave the opportunity for a paragliding visitor and Richard (recently solo GT450) to get an idea of navigation from the passenger seat. Prospective new member Nigel (Not another one!) had his first lesson in the flex and seamed very impressed by the friendly nature of the instructors and members at Clench. This Nigel was a hang glider pilot years ago and found that it all came back very quickly.

Wednesday 17 February 2010
Congratulations to Alex, back to solo since doing first solo in France last year with a flight in the C42.

Saturday 13 February 2010
Congratulations to Jim on his successful conversion to the C42. Welcome new member Paul for his first lesson on the the C42. Also contratulations to Chris Bradford for the first flight during the week of his home built Escapade. A bit of a proud father!!

Tuesday 9 February 2010
Congratulations to David Leonard has passed his GST today on the C42, completed course in about 11 weeks.

Saturday 30 January 2010
Congratulations to Richard Johnson 1st Solo GT450. Congratulations to Dave Leonard second cross country, to Wing Farm, in the C42.

Sunday 24 January 2010
Another busy day at Clench. Dave Leonard first solo cross country to Popham in the C42. Colin and Brian G both airborn in their aircraft, Nice to see Cliff visiting us in his Quantum.

Saturday 23 January 2010
A busy day at Clench. At long last some flyable weather even though the cloud base was a bit low. Lots of newish (and oldish) students around. Lois, Don, Richard and Terry plus Sheryl, Nigel B and Petra. Nigel B is the first member to go for a GT450 share and is hoping that very few people will follow his example so that he can hog the aircraft in the summer. Colin and Brian G champing at the bit to get airborne after work being done on their aircraft. Nice to see Matt visiting us in his Thruster.

In the snow January 2010
Bill Brookes flies in from Pegasus in a QuikR with skiis.

Friday 8 January 2010
Clench Christmas/New Years party. 31 people made the effort and a tremendous time was had until the early hours.

6 January 2010
Well done to all those that made the effort to check the aircraft after the heavy snow fall.

4 January 2010
Congratulations Mike Jones first solo. In G-CERN the GT-450

3 January 2010
Congratulations Terry Wheeler first solo. In G-CFBE the C42

1 January 2010
Fly out to Compton Abbas, Eurostar, C42 and Gyro. Well done for Julian coming out on a rescue flight after the Eurostar had a flat tyre at Compton. Many thanks to the other pilots that helped out particularly Russ for the inertube. Graham and Nigel outbound in the Gyro, Dave Cox and Jo in the Eurostar, Julian plus sister in C42. Then after coffee and two hours of wheel changing Graham went back with Dave and Nigel flew back with Jo.

19 December 2009
Congratulations Dave Leonard first solo, on an icy cold day in the C42. Also congratulations to Nigel Barnes for getting back to solo flying the GT450.

18 December 2009
Congratulations Terry Wheeler passed his Air Tech exam.

12 December 2009
Colin Langley has arrived at Clench with his newly purchased Peagasus Q. Keen to get up in it.

11 December 2009
Congratulations Steve Bailey passing his Air Tech exam.

10 December 2009
Graham at long last left this morning to start his Gyrocopter Instructors course at Lydd. Runway 26/08 very wet so not being used at the moment.

8 December 2009
Congratulations Alisdair Goulden passing his Air Law exam.

7 December 2009
Clench Common Forum back on line after a technical hitch.

5 December 2009
Congratulations Alistair Mellor passing his Air Law exam.

4 December 2009
Congratulations Tim Smith passing his Air Law exam. Congratulations Richard Johnson passing his Air Tech exam.

3 December 2009
Congratulations Alisdair Goulden passing his HPL exam. Congratulations Ben Wyatt passing his Nav and HPL exams.

2 December 2009
Chris Trow departs for his alter ego in the French Alps. See you next spring.

30th November 2009
New stock of fleeces now available in Black, Red, Royal Blue and Navy Blue. Sizes M, L and XL. Quarter length zip and full length zip available. £20 inc VAT. Polo shirts Navy blue sizes M and L. £12 inc VAT. Soft leather flying gloves with thinsulate lining. £10 per pair inc VAT. Contact the office for details.

28/29th November 2009
Several members visited the Flying Show at the NEC which included the BMA AGM. Pioneer aircraft have taken over the C42 distribution and Graham was sounding them out about a new aircraft for 2010.

27th November 2009
Congratulations Terry Wheeler passing his Air Law exam. G-CERN our GT-450 is back from Pegasus after its 500 hour wing overhaul which included a new sail.

26th November 2009
Congratulations Dave Leonard has now also passed his Nav exam which is all five done. First flying day at Clench after 5 days of bad weather.

19th November 2009
G-CERN down at Pegasus, Manton for 500 hour wing inspection and new sail to be fitted. Should be back at Clench by approx 7 Dec.

17th - 19th November 2009
Well done to David Leonard for passing his Met, HPL, Tech and Air Law exams. Putting the wet and windy weather to good use by getting ground school out of the way.

10th November 2009
Our Quantum Mike Charley had its permit done yesterday and will be available for training very soon. GS Aviation has ventured onto Ebay to offer Gift Voucher flights. If you want one please ring us direct on 01672 515535 rather than buying through Ebay.

Week ending 7th November 2009
Assortment of weather but still 5 hours flex and exam passes in air law and aircraft technical for Anthony Harris. Also conratulations to Mo for passing his Nav exam. The Thruster has now been sold making us one step closer to buying a second C42. The Thruster will be staying at Clench for some time whilst new owner Peter and his friend Andrew will be learning to fly on it. Graham Jeffries, now ex-Thruster share holder, has started conversion training to the Eurostar.

30th October 2009
Congratulations to Colin Langley passed his GST in the GT450 to qualify for the restriced licence. Not bad considering he only started flying in September. He only has to do a couple of hours and another cross country to get his full licence but it gets the paperwork going through the system.

28th October 2009
It may be autumn but: Barbara and Dave went off for some advanced cross country training in the C42 to Sandown. In reality this turned out to be landings at Bourne Park, Colemoor Common and White Waltham due to poor weather to the south. Graham J has started conversion to the Eurostar and then Martin and Graham J took the Mistral to Compton Abbas. Runway 26/08 is still half closed but the grass is growing.

27th October 2009
Congratulations to Steve Bailey and Alex on passing their Air Law exam.

26th October 2009
Congratulations to Colin Langley, first solo cross country, in the GT450 to Popham.

2nd October 2009
Congratulations to Ben Wyatt on passing hie Aircraft Technical exam.

21st October 2009
Congratulations to Dave Carter, passed his Nav exam.

Saturday 17th October 2009 Clench Flyout to Sywell
Weather was good! A mass start of 6 aircraft, eventually, by mid-day. Destination Sywell, near Northampton. Very good visability made navigation relatively easy. Participants: Dave Slater and Graham J in the Eurostar, Nigel and Brian in Brians Quantum. Barbara and Simon in the C42. Ken Clark plus friend in his Skyranger, Chris Trow plus Stuart in the Mistral. Gavin and Mike in the GT450. Well done everybody.

15th October 2009
Congratulations to Ben Wyatt passed his Air Law exam. New forum for members to use just launched at www.clenchcommonaeroclub.co.uk/fly.

14th October 2009
Graham J and Martin in his Mistral visited Upfield Farm near Cardiff to sample its narrow concrete runway.

12th October 2009
New web site being set up to house a forum for Clench members. The domain clenchcommonaeroclub.co.uk will hopefully be alive soon.

10th/11th October 2009
Congratulations to Nigel B and Petra, both passed their final ground school exam, meteorology on Sunday. Congratulations to Colin who passed his final ground school exam, navigation, on Saturday.

4th October 2009
Congratulations to Colin Erith passed his GST in his own Skyranger G-CBXS. This revalidated his lapsed licence and also upgraded it to unrestricted. Lots of flex flying with Colin Langley building up his early solo and Nigel and Petra Barnes getting some time in. The trimming of the trees around the aircraft park is going well and the work on smoothing 26/08 is now complete, a big thankyou to Gordon, but we will have to wait some time for the grass to grow back.

3rd October 2009
Flyout cancelled because of very strong winds. Well done to everybody that made the effort. Replanned for 17 October. Contact Dave Slater on 01672 515535 or Nigel on 01488 657888 to get on the list.

28th September 2009
Graham Jeffries is back airborne in the Thruster after a (P1) break of about 3 months. Flights included a first to Siege Cross just North of the A4 in Thatcham. An interesting, bumpy but friendly strip.

26th September 2009
Fantastic weather at Clench. Chris Trow took a few hours off instructing to be navigator for Nigel in the Eurostar to visit Eastbach Spence Airfield on the edge of the Forest of Dean and then up to visit Wye Valley Flyers at Broadmeadow just SW of Hereford. Eastback is possibly as close as you will get in the UK to an Alpine airfield. Landing on the uphill strip and take off on the downhill strip. The taxiway was a test of how good your brakes were one way and needed nearly cruise RPM the other way. Both fields were very friendy and we will certainly visit again. Barbara took the C42 to Portland Bill and then Compon Abbas with Simon flying back. Lots of hang glider aerotows going on back at Clench.

23rd September 2009
Runway 26/08 out of action for resurfacing. Do not attempt to land on it until further notice. Several lorry loads of soil have been deposited which will then be spread to even out the bumps. grass seed will be planted and a few weeks at least will be needed before it can be reopened.

Week ending 20th September 2009
Congratulations to Colin, first solo in the GT450. Colin only started training with us 3 weeks ago and has managed 14 hours dual despite an assortment of weather. Nigel B, recently solo in France, is busy converting to the GT450. The calm, stable conditions has meant flexwing training has been getting a lot of hours in.

Week ending 11th September 2009
Graham J and Martin did a flight to Colemore Common in the Mistral. At last some better weather for the flexwing.

Week ending 6th September 2009
New member Colin Langley in for an intensive two week flexwing course. So far little flying due to the blustery conditions but looking better for next week. However congratulations to Colin for exam successes in Air Law and Aircraft Technical. Nigel and Alistair took the Eurostar on a short cross country to Chiltern Park.

30th August 2009
Congratulations to Alex first solo in the X-Air at St Secondin. Note only Sue and the dog need to learn now then the entire Slater family can be pilots.

29th August 2009
Congratulations to Nigel Barnes first solo in the Quantum at St Secondin. Nigel and Petra also each managed to pass four of their exams during the week.

27th August 2009
Congratulations to Nick Ionita cross countries, four exams and GST done on the Quantum at St Secondin.

27 - 31 August 2009 St Secondin Annual Fly-In and BBQ in France.
With twice the numbers of aircraft as last year taking part the intrepid aviators this time included the Eurostar with Don and Dave S, the Thruster with Guy and Gary, the C42 with Nigel L and Graham J, and Chris Trow in his Challenger. Good flight down via Lashenden, across to Cap Griz-Nez to Abbeville, overnight stop and then south via Dreux and Amboise to St. Sec. Great BBQ and party, with dancing in the hanger to 0300h. Return flight was done separately with Nigel and Graham J off first in the C42 routing Dreux - Abbeville, followed closely by Guy and Gary in the Thruster routing Chartres - Abbeville. Chris staying in St. Sec and moving off to Italy and the Eurostar departing the following day using its higher speed to do St. Sec - Abbeville - Clench in the day. So Monday saw Thruster, C42 and the Eurostar all crossing the channel, the white cliffs of Dover easily visible from 40 miles away. Next year lets see if we can get the whole Clench fleet along. Pictures and story see Gallery 6.

18th August 2009
Congratulations to Mo Parveaz first solo in the C42 at Clench.

17th August 2009
At St Secondin congratulations to Nick Ionita first solo in the Quantum. Also recently solo Dan managed 10 hours in 3 days on the P92. Dan converted to the P92 in order to build up his solo hours. The local French climate is staying true to form with flying every day.

15th August 2009
The Clench flyout had a very good turn out, at Clench. Martin, Brian, Ken, Russ, Nigel, Mike, Steve, Colin and John. However after hanging around for 4 hours the trip was called off due to low cloud and gusty winds. Not all was lost. Mikes wing had a good wash and so did the C42.

4th to 14th August 2009
Lots of flying. Exam successes for Mo Parveaz and Dave Carter in Air Law. Courses started out at Saint Secondin in France on both fixed and flexwing. Prep meeting for French trip went well.

Monday 3rd August 2009
The gliding competition going on at nearby Keevil resulted in a glider landing at Clench.

Sunday 2nd August 2009
A loverly summers day. Training, trial flights, visitors flying in, the Bradfords off to the Wing Farm flyin and and Graham J and Nigel took the Eurostar to Dunkerswell and Eaglescott to do a reconnaissance for the flyout later this month.

Friday 31 July 2009
Despite a variety of not ideal weather July was a good month with the final Friday being one of our busiest ever weekdays. Over 40 training and trial flights taking place.

Saturday 25 July 2009
VHF Radio ground school course at Clench.

Saturday 18 July 2009
Westonzoyland Airfield Scumpy and cheese fly in. Showery weather significantly reduced the numbers attending this year. However, Nigel and Gary took the Eurostar and Graham the gyrocopter.

Sunday 12 July 2009
Clench Fly Out to Shobdon was a great success. Graham and Dave in the gyrocopter, Don and Barbara in the Eurostar, Martin and Graham G in the Mistral, Gavin and Ian in the GT-450 and Nigel and Tania in the C42. The early start was delayed by a flat tyre on the Eurostar and showers however Gavin took the GT up to check the weather and we made the decision to go for it. Graham and the gyro let us in convoy through Lyneham. Then opening out we routed Stroud, Hereford and Shobdon. The showery weather held off except for a small shower in the circuit at Shobdon, especially for first arrival Nigel. Shobdon was very welcoming and gave the group a reduced landing fee. The restaurant produced excellent Sunday roast lunches despite us arriving after 1400h, thank you. The return was more diverse with the Eurostar and C42 taking a longer route to follow the Wye from Hereford, past the Forest of Dean and to the Severn bridges. The rest of the fleet routing more directly to the Severn bridges. All of us then via Bath, Bradford on Avon and Devizes. Special well done to Martin as his longest trip P1 in his Mistral so far and to new member Ian for doing his second and third ever microlight flights. Thanks to Team Slater for the organisation. Prior to the next trip a little more attention will be given to cushions. New pictures at Gallery 1

10 July 2009
Congratulations to Ben Wyatt, first solo in the C42.
Congratulations to Barbara Shaw for completing her second solo cross country with a flight to Wing Farm in the C42. She is now upgrading to unrestricted licence.

29 June/1 July 2009
Recently qualified pilot Simon Dow has been spreading his wings as a C42 share holder with flights to Compton Abbas and Benbridge.

24 June 2009
Congratulations to Barbara Shaw passing her GST in the C42 for her restricted licence at Clench Common.

23 June 2009
Congratulations to Mike Clutterbuck passing his GST in his Flash 11 Alpha at Clench Common.

19 June 2009
Graham arrives at St Secondin in the QuikR and he is impressed! Just over 6 hours and 65 litres of fuel at a respectable speed. Remember that GSAviation are Pegasus dealers and can arrange test flights from Clench Common for interested buyers.

18 June 2009
Congratulations to Sheryl passing her Met exam. Graham sets off for France in the QuikR.

16 June 2009
Eurostar back from the Isles of Scilly. Pictures and write up see Gallery 5. A QuikR was being rigged ready for a delivery flight out to St Secondin with Graham and Alistair departing tomorrow subject to weather.

13/15 June 2009
New share holders Geoff and Wendy have taken the Eurostar on its furthest adventure so far with a flight down to the Isles of Scilly.

9 June 2009
Congratulations to James Read, First Solo in the GT450.

8 June 2009
Congratulations to (the other) Dave Slater, GST in his Blade.

7 June 2009
Congratulations to Gary Stewart for passing his GST in his Q and also Congratulations to (the other) Dave Slater, First Solo in a flexwing in his Blade. Graham and Dave (the original) Slater took the Gyrocopter to Chiltern Park, but nobody was in. A busy day on flex wing trial flights with lots of big grins well done Dave Cox.

4 June 2009
Congratulations to Jason Urrutia for passing his GST in his Q.

1 June 2009
Graham S flew the gyro back to Clench after its permit.

31st May 2009
Another very hot day. Nigel and Tania took the Eurostar to the sea side with a visit to Sandown. Only 60 minutes each way, and a fantastic view.

30th May 2009
The new clubhouse painting party/BBQ went well despite very hot weather. Thanks to all that attended. Brian has been busy setting up his new helmets with built in coms for his Quantum.

May 2009
After a period of rain through the middle of May life is once more hectic. The GT450, mainly with Dave Cox instructing achieved one of its best months hour since last July. Dave Slater is now building up his hours instructing on fixed wing and we are offering a special summer reduced rate for Dave Slater/Thruster lessons. Graham J and Nigel took the Thruster to Wales but it was closed. Great pictures of the Seven Bridges though and a numb bum after 2 hours 20 minutes. Several new starters for both flex and fixed wing. Nigel at last converted to the Eurostar. The Gyro has been away for its annual permit and Graham S took the Tecnam for a few days holiday in Scotland with Sue.

2nd/3rd May 2009
The Popham Microlight Show. A tremendous weekend day with lots of interest particularly from GA pilots keen to fly something that was much cheaper but probably more fun than what they had been flying. We were there in force with the Eurostar, C42, GT450 and Gyrocopter. A fantastic team effort, well done everybody. Lots of old friends visited the stand and many new people had trial lessons, I think several will be back to continue training.

30 April
Congratulations to Sheryl passing her Aviation Law exam.

25th April
A VHF radio course was held at Clench this Saturday with 6 keen pilots eager to know more. Further courses will be run later in the year. Preparations are underway for the Popham Microlight Show next week. See you down there.

21st April
Congratulations, Brian Cooper passed his GST in the C42 and Jason Urrita flew his second cross country flight to Wing Farm in his Pegasus Q.

20th April
Barbara Shaw in the C42 and Jason Urrita in his Pegasus Q both achieved first cross country flights to Popham and back. Brian Cooper did his second cross country to Wing Farm in the C42.

18/19th April
The Clench Flyin. Well amazing was how we look back at how many aircraft flew in each day. From all over the country, Halfpenny Green, Sheffield, Leicester, Fenland etc etc. The only thing we could do better next time is on providing food for the Saturday afternoon. Although we advertised the event as an evening BBQ several pilots were only visiting for the afternoon. Once we realised this the BBQ was lit and brought forward. Clench lamb plus burgers, sausages and salad were on the menu. Well done Diana the nicest lamb I have tasted in a long time. Saturday saw our spot landing competition being won by Cliff from Lower Upham in his Quantum. Well done Cliff. Many stayed for the evening and the partying continued to the early hours. Sunday morning surprisingly did not reveal lots of hangovers despite Steve's barrel of cloudy cider. Sunday also surprised us as we did not expect incoming visitors. There were loads!!! The BBQ was relit and urgent shopping forays for more food, thanks to Sue and Jeanette. Special thanks to star cooks Alex, Dave and Nigel for keeping the burgers sizzling. Thanks to all the other helpers, you know who you are, a great team effort by so many people. Will we do it again, you bet we will, when...... to be decided.

15 April
Congratulations to Sheryl passing her Aircraft Technical exam.

10 to 13 April
The Easter weekend was busy but poor viz kept us local except for Monday when Graham J and Nigel took the Thruster to Western Zoyland.

8 April
Congratulations to Brian Cooper on his first cross country qualifier to Popham in the C42. Graham took the gyro down to Old Sarum as part a further 3 hours flying nearer to starting gyro instruction. Recent new pilot Sheryl is starting to learn the circuit in the Eurostar and Barbara is building solo time in the C42, soon to go cross country.

30 March to 5 April
Another busy week at Clench. Flying Instructor Dave Cox is back from an extended holiday flying in New Zealand and California. Dave Slater completed his AFI (Assistant Flying Instructor) final test and is now awaiting the paperwork coming through before he can instruct. Chris Trow is back and has completed his upgrade to FI (Flying Instructor). Newcomer Nick from Hungary had a great first lesson in the GT450 flex wing and has booked 9 more. A Blade and a Sky Ranger have arrived at Clench so that their owners can learn to fly on them. The gyro has been down to Bournemouth. Brian Goldsmith has done his longest cross country with a flight to a very busy Goodwood in his Quantum. Plus lots of happy people after trial lessons, mostly in the GT450.

Sunday 29 March Fly-out to Bembridge
The second Clench Fly Out of 2009 was another great success. The destination was Bembridge. Pilots varied from recent PPL to very experienced with passengers including pre solo and low hours. The fleet consisted of: Graham Slater with Alex Curtis Slater in the MT-03 gyrocopter, Nigel Leak and Steve Bailey in the Thruster, Mark Bastin in his X-air with Martin Chalk, Matt Williams in his Thruster with Mike Clutterbuck. Steve and Martin obviously got fed up with their pilots so swapped aircraft for the return flight. Everybody really enjoyed it and learned from it. Well done again Dave for organising it. We all look forward to the next trip which will be planned to a place with a cheap fish and chip shop.

28 March 2009
Graham and Nigel were up in Leicester. Graham for the British Rotorcraft Association instructors meeting and Nigel for their AGM.

Friday 27 March
Congratulations to Dave Curtis Slater for completing his instructors course up at Rufforth with John Teesdale. Now all he needs is to get the test done and then he can start instructing at Clench.

19 March 2009
Congratulations to Steve Dow on GST for unrestricted licence at St Secondin in the Quantum. Although Steve had many hours under his belt from flying overseas he needed to do the full NPPL course. He achieved 27 hours flying including 17 hours solo and his cross countries in just 10 days showing what exceptional weather our French airfield enjoys. Graham also flew Pietro's Shadow to-day. Graham is now packing up ready to return to Clench for Saturday.

17 March 2009
Pietro arrives at St Secondin with his Shadow in a trailer for Graham to check out.

15 March 2009
Fantastic weather day at Clench. Jim Addison and Chris Bradford took the Thruster all the way down to Dunkeswell. Nigel Leak and Graham Jeffries took the C42 first to Goodwood, then to Sandown. Andy Southorn got himself settled down on the Eurostar so can now instruct on that. Dave Slater was taking a break from his instructors course up north to get some more Eurostar hours in as well including taking Alex (his sister) for a flight.

12 March 2009
First intensive course in France underway, earlier than previous years but enjoying ideal training weather.

7 March 2009
The first Clench Fly Out of 2009 was a great success. The destination was changed from Bembridge to Compton Abbas due to weather coming in from the West in the afternoon. Pilots varied from recent PPL to very experienced with passengers including pre solo and low hours. The fleet consisted of: Dave Slater and Andy Southorn in the Eurostar, Nigel Leak and Steve Bailey in the C42, Gavin Crick and Mike Clutterbuck in the GT450, Grayham Jeffries and Guy Lynch in the Thruster, plus Mark Bastin in his X-air with Martin Chalk, Chris Trow in his Challenger with Ruth, Matt Williams in his Thruster with A N Other. Everybody really enjoyed it and learned from it. Well done Dave for organising it. We all look forward to the next Bembridge trip, where ever it may go to.

3 March 2009
Gary completed his second qualifying cross country Wing Farm.

28 February/1 March 2009
A very busy weekend at Clench. Gary completed his first qualifying cross country to Popham, several people took ground school exams, loads of visiting aircraft and the new Eurostar busy earning its keep. Two pilots added new airfields to their log books, Graham Jeffries adding Brimpton and Nigel adding Lower Upham.

22 February 2009
Congratulations, Julian Reynolds, GST in the C42.

21 February 2009
Busy day at Clench. Out and about Dave and Guy took the Thruster to Popham, Graham and Nigel took the gyro to Sandy, Beds. Another 3 hours P1 for Graham nearer his gyro instructors course.

20 February 2009
Congratulations, Brian Cooper, first solo in C42.

19 February 2009
New Team Eurostar arrives at Clench. Dave and Nigel start differences training. Graham, Dave, Nigel, Guy and Gary attended the CAA Safety Meeting at Boscombe Down.

15 February 2009
Congratulations, Julian Reynolds, 2nd cross country qualifier flight, to Wing Farm, in the C42.

14 February 2009
Clench back fully operational after the snow but very muddy. Lots going on including 3 very happy trial lesson pupils.

13 February 2009
Congratulations - Dave Curtis Slater passes his instructor assessment up near York.

11 February 2009
Snow at long last thin enough to allow a flight by the Thruster but not yet good enough to resume training. Hopefully back operational Friday/Saturday but ring first before travelling. See Photo Gallery for snow pictures.

7 February 2009
Well done to Lloyd, Dave and Graham for making the effort to remove the snow off the aircraft parked outside.

4 February 2009
Will Gill escape from Clench Common? She made it there this morning using her car as a snow plow. With nearly a foot of snow in places lets hope it melts before she tries to drive home.

31 January 2009
Congratulations, Guy Lynch, GST in the Thruster.

30 January 2009
GS Aviation has confirmed its order for a new Eurostar for delivery mid February. See www.flyeurostar.co.uk. This will be available in shares at £2985 payable by credit card or as 3 monthly payments of £1000 paid by cheque. The first share has already gone to Nigel who, having seen it, is champing at the bit to do differences training and get flying it.

25 January 2009
Poor weather however first flights as passengers for Guy Lynch and Graham Jeffries in the gyrocopter. They loved it.

24 January 2009
Out and about G-MFZU with Dave and Guy and G-CFBE Nigel and Alistair went off to Compton Abbas and then Henstridge.

22 January 2009
Graham away evaluating adding a Eurostar to the GSA fleet. See www.flyeurostar.co.uk

20 January 2009
Out and about G-CFBE Nigel and Dave went off to Weston Zoyland and back.

14 January 2009
Congratulations, Simon Payne passed his GST in the C42.
Congratulations, Guy Lynch, 2nd cross country qualifier flight, to Wing Farm, in the Thruster.

7 January 2009
Congratulations, Phil Gregory on his conversion to fixed wing and his first solo in the C42

4 January 2009
Despite sub zero temperature and frozen pipes Clench was a hive of activity.
Congratulations, Guy Lynch, 1st cross country qualifier flight, to Popham, in the Thruster.
Congratulations, Julian Reynolds, 1st cross country qualifier flight, to Popham, in the C42.
Alistair Leak taking two uni friends for a 1st flight in a microlight, GT450 open cockpit flexwing, they loved it!
Out and about Graham and Nigel took the gyrocopter to Popham.

3 January 2009
Congratulations, Simon Payne, 2nd cross country qualifier flight, to Wing Farm, in the C42.
Close by loads of hot air balloons were launching from Savernake as part of the annual balloon Icicle Meet.

1 January 2009
Poor viz and freezing conditions meant that we did not attempt the Fly In at Popham. However, the gyrocopter was airborne for a couple of flights with Graham. Dave Slater and Nigel Leak as passengers.

2009 News

29 December 2008
Out and about, Alistair and Julian Leak in the GT450, and Dave Slater and Nigel Leak in the Thruster braved the cold to visit a very quiet Brimpton.

19 December 2008
Congratulations, Simon Dow, 2nd cross country qualifier flight, to Wing Farm, in the C42.
Out and about, Alistair and Nigel Leak in the GT450, and Dave Slater and Brian Cooper in the Thruster braved the cold and wind to visit a very damp Redlands.

15 December 2008
Brian Cooper, aged 73 years young, has just completed a 5 day intensive course on the C42 and he's coming back for more next week!

13 December 2008
Grand opening of the new clubhouse. Despite early flooding on the road from Marlborough many members both new and old turned up and a great time was had by all. Well done to Sue and Alex for the food. See Gallery 4

10 December 2008
Congratulations, David Leighton passed his GST on the C42 for his restricted licence.
Out and about Dave Slater and Nigel Leak turned on the heater in the C42 and flew to Goodwood (Chichester) and back.

6 December 2008
Congratulations, Phil Gregory passed his GST at Clench in his Q.

5 December 2008
Congratulations, Simon Dow passed his GST at Clench in the C42.

3 December 2008
Congratulations, Jamie Pratt first solo in the C42.

1 December 2008
Finishing touches being made to new club house, grand opening party to be announced soon.

29/30 November 2008
SPLASH show at NEC. New enclosed cockpit gyrocopter from RotorSport on show. Graham and Nigel both had an ogle. How can we get one next year?

19 November 2008
Congratulations, Simon Payne, 1st cross country qualifier flight, to Popham, in the C42.

3 November 2008
Graham back from France where Craig Gorvett achieved his full NPPL on the Quantum over the last couple of weeks.

25 October 2008
Congratulations, Barbara Shaw, first solo in the C42 at Clench Common.
Congratulations, Simon Dow, first solo cross country in the C42.

19 October 2008
Out and about Brian Goldsmith braved the cold to fly his Quantum to Brimpton, and back.

18 October 2008
The new club house at Clench is nearly done. Dave Slater has been hard at it.

17 October 2008
Congratulations, Michael Clutterbuck first solo in his Flash 11 Alpha at Clench Common.
Congratulations, Phil Gregory second solo cross country to Wing Farm in his Q.

16 October 2008
Congratulations, Nigel Leak passed his GST in the C42 to add an (M) to his NPPL at Clench Common.

15 October 2008
Out and about Graham Slater took the Gyrocopter to Chilbolton and Old Sarum with Nigel Leak.

14 October 2008
Congratulations, Martin Chalk passed his GST in his Mistral at Clench Common.

9 October 2008
Phil Gregory first solo cross country qualifier to Popham in his Pegasus Q G-MVPX.
Martin Chalk second solo cross country qualifier to Wing Farm in his Mistral.
First flight in the gyrocopter for Dave Slater.

2 October 2008
Clench Common new club house "The Shed" coming on well.

2 October 2008
Pat Noons getting ready for GST and restricted licence in France on the X-Air Microlight.

28 September 2008
Congratulations, Julie Fitxgerald GST in France on the Technam P92 Microlight.

17 September 2008
Congratulations, Jim Morris passed his GST in his Challenger at Clench Common.

3 September 2008
Dave Slater and Nigel Leak in the C42 and Alistair Leak and Guy Lynch in the GT450 fly back across the Channel to Clench after being stuck in Abberville for 2 nights.

31 August 2008
St Secondin BBQ. Despite torrential rain and strong winds the night before a good group of intrepid aviators arrived for the annual BBQ.

30 August 2008
Congratulations, Pauline Willcox GST in France on the X-Air Microlight.

29 August 2008
Congratulations, Phil Willcox GST in France on the Technam P92 Microlight.

28 August 2008
Dave Slater and Guy Lynch in the C42 and Alistair Leak and Nigel Leak in the GT450 fly out of Clench for the St Secondin BBQ.

27 August 2008
Congratulations, Jason Urrita first solo in France on a Pegasus Q flexwing.

25 August 2008
Congratulations, Pietro Cicconetti GST in France on the X-Air Microlight.

24 August 2008
Congratulations, Julie Fitzgerald first solo in France on the Technam P92 Microlight.

24 August 2008
Congratulations, Pauline Willcox first solo in France on the X-Air Microlight.

8 August 2008
Congratulations to Gary Stewart first solo on GT450 G-CERN
Congratulations to Guy Lynch first solo on the Thruster
Also Nigel Leak on conversion to and first microlight solo in the C42 G-CFBE
And a big thanks to Dave Cox and Chris Trow for so much flying/training done in half a day.
Clubhouse update: Lee assisted by Harry have started the glazing, Dave Slater has finished the roof.

7 August 2008
Graham off to St Secondin our French airfield for some intensive courses for which he filled the van with a Jabaru engine, a washing machine and a concrete mixer!!!!

4 August 2008
All of a sudden the new clubhouse is taking shape. Last week the walls went up. To-day a motley team managed all the roof structure. Well done lads: Putting the roof up Alistair, Chris, Dave, Graham, Harry, Lee and Nigel.

At Popham 2/3rd August
Despite low cloud, rain, drizzle etc on both days. Met lots of old friends (plus some new ones) including Kay Bradford, Phil Gregory, John Lane, Brian, Graham plus loads who I have forgotten their names. On the stand Sue and Dave Slater (plus Graham), Chris Trow, Harry and Nigel. The Gyrocopter attracted loads of interest partly because of how little the ones that were flying were effected by the strong winds and turbulence that were throwing around the other aircraft in the circuit.
Meanwhile back at Clench Dave Cox did a splendid job of holding the fort.

27 July 2008
Congratulations to Graham Slater on passing his GST on the Giro copter G-CFGY

26 July 2008
Congratulations to Julian Reynolds, first solo, and in our new C42 G-CFBE.
Congratulations to Brian Goldsmith on at long last finishing his unrestricted NPPL with a return flight to Wing Farm in his Quantum G-CBNT.

23 July 2008
New C42 arrives. Welcome G-CFBE

22 July 2008
Congratulations to Phil Gregory, solo in his own aircraft G-MVPX

16 July 2008
Congratulations to Ron Griffin passed his GST on our trusty Thruster T600N, Ron completed his full licence in 29 hours as he had a background of Light Aircraft flying and a commercial balloon licence. The weather in July has not been very conducive to flying in general, but we have been battling through with all our students making progress.

2 July 2008
Congratulations, first solo for Martin Chalk in his Mistral at Clench.

30 June 2008
Graham back from St Secondin after another successful course in France.
Congratulations to Stephen Perkins completed his GST in the Tecnam P92.
Congratulations to David Leighton (a young man of 77) regained his solo.

28 June 2008
The GT450 attracted a lot of attention at the Hungerford Rotary Club Family Fun Day. Many people commented that they had never seen a microlight up close before and at least two people expressed a strong interest in learning to fly.

23 June 2008
Congratulations to Simon Payne first solo in C42 at Clench Common.

10 June 2008
Congratulations to Phil Ellis, (Matt's father) went solo in the C42, and is now logging his solo hours towards his licence.

30 May 2008
Congratulations to Lee Bligh GST on C42 at Clench Common.
Congratulations to Simon Dow first solo on C42 at Clench Common.
Congratulations to Graham Slater first gyrocopter solo on his MT-03 at Clench Common.

27 May 2008
Congratulations to Jim Morris first solo in his Challenger

22 May 2008
Congratulations to Tony Parker GST on C42 at Clench Common.

21 May 2008
Congratulations to Rob Shaw first solo on C42 at Clench Common.

18 May 2008
Congratulations to Matt Ellis first solo on C42 at Clench Common.

10 May 2008
Congratulations to Ron Griffin first solo on Thruster at Clench Common.

10 May 2008
Congratulations to Pat Berry he passed his GST in France on the Tecnam P92 Microlight.

9 May 2008
Congratulations to Denis Myers who has just completed the full NPPL(M) syllabus and passed his GST at our school in France in just over 2 weeks! A lot of hard work and effort on his part - a commendable effort.

22 April 2008
Congratulations! Lee Bligh, first solo on C42 at Clench Common.

15 April 2008
G-CFGY MT-03 Gyrocopter arrives at Clench

27 March 2008
Congratulations! Phil Gregory first solo on the GT450.

March 2008 - Clench Common welcomes the following new students:
Phil Gregory flying the GT450.
Paul Young learning on the GT450.
Martin Chalk learning to fly his Mistral.
Father and son Phil and Matt Ellis learning to fly the C42.
Lee Bligh learning on the C42.
Rob Shaw learning on the C42.
Ron Griffin X-Air owner, starting on the Thruster.
Mike Clutterbuck learning on his Flash 11 Alpha.

March 2008
Jim Morris completes 12 hr 20 minutes dual flying C42 and 3 exams on 5 day intensive course in March.
Congratulations! Mark Savage passed his GST for unrestricted NPPL on 5th in the Thruster.
Mark Savage passed GST completed full licence on Thruster in March.

February 2008
Congratulations! Ken Clark passed his GST (restricted) on 17th in the C42.
Graham Jeffries passed GST completed restricted on Thruster in February. Ivan Prachar at 74 years old completes solo flight in the Thruster in February, its never too late to learn!!
Tony Parker first solo in C42 February.

9/10 February 2008
Saturday 9 Feb G-CERN with Alistair and Julian Leak left Clench with filled paniers for the annual Icicle Meet at Sywell, near Northampton. At Sywell they joined 12 other hardy aviators and camped by their aircraft over a frosty night and then returned to Clench on Sunday. One of the advantages of the GT450 is that it can be used for touring and advanced training as it can carry a full fuel load, paniers and two adults and still be within its max all up weight.

January 2008
John 'Budge' Wilcox passed GST and completed restricted licence on the Thruster in January.

2007

Christmas 2007 and New Year 2008
Clench Common will be closed for training 25/26 December and 1st January. However it is anticipated that quite a few hardy and very well wrapped up aviators will be escaping form home to get into the skies during that week.

Late Nov 2007
Flashers to be seen at Clench! Both Brian (Quantum 912) and Nigel (the Clench GT450) left the SPLASH show with new strobe light kits. These once fitted (and the mod signed off) will help to improve the conspicuity of the aircraft in flight.

24/25 Nov 2007
GS Aviation had a stand at SPLASH, the Sports and Leisure Aviation Show at the NEC. We welcomed back many old friends and had numerous enquiries for flying flex and fixed wing both in the UK and in France and Spain.

21/22 Nov 2007
Graham in Italy with some prospective customers for the Rotax powered Tecnam twin. Graham was very impressed by the low noise level and short field performance. Yes it could operate out of Clench Common.

12 Nov 2007
Congratulations! Graham Jeffries passed his GST for restricted NPPL at Clench in the Thruster.

4 Nov 2007
Congratulations! Julian Leak completed his cross countries for the unrestricted NPPL at Clench in the GT450.

3 Nov 2007
Congratulations! Alistair Leak completed his cross countries for the unrestricted NPPL at Clench in the GT450.

2 Nov 2007
Congratulations! Simon Kyle passed his GST at Clench in his Pegasus Q G-MTPS

28 Oct 2007
The new roof is now on the Clubhouse at St Secondin.

8 Oct 2007
Congratulations! Julian Leak passed his GST for restricted NPPL at Clench in the GT450.

6 Oct 2007
Congratulations! Alistair Leak passed his GST for restricted NPPL at Clench in the GT450.

1 Oct 2007
Graham back from St Secondin after nearly a month of flyable days, unlike UK! New clubhouse floor completed and next stage the roof is going on.

21 Sep 2007
Congratulations! David Beveridge passed his GST in France at St Secondin today after a 2-3 week intensive course.

News 13 Sep 2007

Clench Common flexwing student, Phil Gaze, is this month’s student of the month in Loop magazine.
Copies of which can be obtained, free, from www.loop.aero

News 2 Sep 2007
Congratulations! Julie Brittan's 'first solo' at St Secondin, France on Sunday 2 September in the 912 Quantum.

September 2nd 2007 - Julie Brittan's 'first solo' at St Secondin, France	September 2nd 2007 - Julie Brittan's 'first solo' at St Secondin, France

1 Sep 2007
Congratulations! GST for Colin Bruce, in France at St Secondin in the X-Air.

For your Diary Sat 1st September 2007
GS Aviation BBQ at St Secondin Airfield (our French operation). Why not fly down after visiting the Blois Microlight Show. St Secondin is situated just south of Poitiers N46 19.9 E 000 30.9 500ft AMSL, 2 runways 10/19 500m, 09/27 680m, pre booking required.

27 Aug 2007
Congratulations! Hugh Clark on passing your GST on the Thruster.

19 Aug 2007
The new IKARUS C42 G-CEPY has now received its Permit to Fly and has started flight training.

13 Aug 2007
The GT450 flexwing is now operational.

28 July 2007
Brand new Pegasus GT450 flexwing delivered to Clench Common to join the training fleet. Graham managed to get the initial test flight done and we are now awaiting CAA permit to fly which will probably take about 10 days. We are hoping G-CERN will be operational from 13 August.