Wow, what a turnout! Over 60 pilots turned up for the weekend Rally, from all over the country and from Belgium too! Everyone was excited about the flight around our Capital City, and maps were prepared, re-fuelling arranged and loads of cash given to such a good cause in the form of launch and camping fees at Barry's field at Homestead Farm, Wanborough.

Unfortunately, the Weather Gods were not with us 100%! Some braver-than-I pilots set off Saturday morning, in windy conditions. They did amazingly well, flying to the Reading area before either getting ground crew to pick them up or take them further along the course for a late evening flight. The rest of us decided mid afternoon to cut our losses and drive to our supposed 'overnight stop' at Damyns Hall. Here a lot of pilots flew until dark, making the most of the evening wind gradient. Yet more money was raised from launch fees...thanks guys and girls!!

We all had our fingers crossed that Sunday would be less windy...we had arranged for a 6am start, yet the wind was still too be a step too far for most. That said, a group of pilots did set off to fly the final 94km leg back to Guildford. A few turned back, a handful landed at Clacket Lane Services, a couple at Tracey's field in Sutton, and a hardy 2 flew all the way back to Barry's Place (well done Andy and Chris!).

The weekend was great fun, and hats off to those who flew some sections of the route. Great people and great fun!

3 days later, the Weather Gods were in a better mood. A flyable window appeared the Wednesday and Thursday following the Rally....so very last minute myself, Michel, Tom and Ben decided to bite the bullet and give it a go. Setting off late on the Wednesday we got as far as Potter's Bar by dark, sleeping in a hedgerow and flying the second leg early Thursday morning! We had no ground crew and refuelled at petrol stations along the way. We proved that when the weaher permits, the flight is fantastic.

Hopefully next year all pilots will make it round...if not before!

The money raised is fantastic. A wholehearted thanks from myself to all who have donated.

Every penny really does count!

Donating through Justgiving is quick, easy and totally secure. It’s also the most efficient way to sponsor the rally: St. Luke's Cancer Fund Royal Surrey County Hospital gets your money faster and, if you’re a UK taxpayer, Justgiving makes sure 25% in Gift Aid, plus a 3% supplement, are added to your donation.

Thanks again

Laura Turner