Young gliders enjoy open day at centre in Little Gransden

Youngsters were welcomed to Cambridge Gliding Centre in Little Gransden to try out gliding for the first time.

Lewis Chapman (14 yrs old) and instructor Mark Lawrence-Jones, just before their trial flight. - Credit: Archant

Discounted flights with experienced pilots were available to visitors aged between 14 and 26 on July 24 in the centre’s modern, dual-controlled gliders.

Gliders use bubbles of hot air rising from the ground, called thermals, to fly without the use of an engine.

Prospective pilots, their families and friends also had the chance to take a closer look at some of the club’s other aircraft as well as trying out a gliding simulator on the ground free. Current cadets and their parents were on hand to chat about their flying experiences over cups of tea and plenty of cake.

Jack Chapman (14 years old and twin brother of Lewis) with instructor Julia Robson, just before their trial flight. - Credit: Archant

A spokesman for the gliding centre, in Longstowe Road, said: “The day was a big success with the young visitors arriving safely back on the ground with big smiles and an appetite for more. A number of new cadets have joined the friendly flying club as a result of the day.”

For more information, call Cambridge Gliding Centre on 01767 677077, or e-mail office@camgliding.uk.