Chasewater Model Boat Club.

Saturday sailing 25/2/12.

2012-02-25T20:15:00.000Z

If it wasn't for the chilly breeze across the country park, it would of almost of been a summers afternoon! I say almost, as the biting breeze certanly did chill the fingertips whilst holding a radio transmitter!
It was nice to see some of the "regular crew" sailing today. A few huffy boats also turned up, but no racing had been planned, so this afternoon was simply used for practise in the, er "handling department." I personally took along my robbe "sea jet" for its first trials since it was last used where the motor lost power. I have had to do some deep research and investigation to source another replacement motor, as Robbe no longer produce the exact same motor as originally fitted. I did order and retro fit a replacement motor supplied by Robbe, but it lacked the rpm's needed to get this little craft planing correctly. So after much cross matching of motor data, I have opted to fit a "Graupner speed 600 race" motor. It seemed to work well in the choppy conditions, runs way better on mill pond water, but we can't have everything!
I still have some experimenting to do with battery position to help keep the boat balance just right, as the choppier the water, the more forward the battery needed to go. Unfortunately I ran out of battery carrier, so it has now undergone a small" mod" since return from the pool.
I did make up a piece of "rescue kit" this morning, to quickly fit to my Sun Tug's bows. and it was tested this afternoon and proved sucessful, so will now tidy the rough corners up and get it waterproofed.

Mersey Lifeboat test " Sound and Vision" !

2012-02-18T23:36:00.000Z

Saturday sailing 18/2/12.

2012-02-18T18:41:00.000Z

Well, todays weather couldn't of changed so dramatically for some. What started out cold and overcast, threatening to rain. then did so for a couple of hours, did I dare say put a few members from stepping out the house. But for those who needed the fresh air and a "fix" of model boating, the pool beckoned !

There was a good range of different models on the water this afternoon, ranging from my own lifeboat, Mac's Superb tanker, the "Zoom brigade", A couple of sports boats and the inevitable huffy's.

Heres a few video clips of some of todays saling. I do believe there may be a couple of copies of "Navigation for beginners" passing in the post too.

Chasewater MAin lake update 16/2/12.

2012-02-16T16:42:00.000Z

Chasewater Dam News

A hard task!

Feb 15th, 2012 by lizziethatcher

More than 100 tonnes of concrete is to be poured into Chasewater Reservoir to help support the 200-year-old dam.

The concrete will help control the flow of water when the reservoir is full. Repairs to the reservoir’s drawdown culvert (or plughole), have also been carried out.

County councillor Mark Winnington said: “This is the last major milestone in what has been a hugely successful and high profile project to restore one of the most popular country parks in the Midlands to its former glory.

“The county council has carried out vital safety improvements to the overflow to safeguard nearby residents in the event of severe flooding, which will enable us to monitor the condition of the dam much more closely in the future.

“The drawdown culvert – the equivalent of the plughole in a bath – was located and inspected for the first time in over 200 years. Vital improvements have now been made and the project is expected to be complete in the spring.”

Water levels have begun to rise again after the plug was replaced last October. It is expected to be refilled fully by spring 2013.

ZOOMIN' EKK!

2012-02-14T17:26:00.000Z

Sorry but due to the pool water still being iced up, we are unable to sail yet, but maybe this saturday might show signs of sufficient temperature to clear the pool a bit to enable us to launch a few boats out.

In the meantime, heres a short video clip of Mark and Carl, showing what a zoom can doo !

member boat build update

2012-02-12T11:47:00.000Z

Mark "B" has been busy on his Zoom, and has sent in some update pictures, He has applied his own "personally designed graphics". The propshaft support has been upgraded by fitting one of mark's own home made carbon fibre support plates, the boat being guaranteed to break from around the carbon support and not the support fail! The drivetrain is sorted at its tail end, with an actura prop.

ZOOM BRIGADE------- WATCH OUT !

I too have spent a few cosy hours indoors with some more work done on the Mersey lifeboat. I have finally recieved the searchlights and spot lamps Ive been waiting for, so I can finally complete the main mast wiring and close up the birds nest of wiring it contains. I have made up the front screen washer piping from brass rod and the roof aerials and their bases too, making them either removeable or easily "hinged" to aid on transporting the boat to and from the pool by car.

RNLI SOS DAY

2012-02-12T00:17:00.000Z

Just to let you all know, Chasewater Model Boat Club raised a total of £ 46. 46 which has been banked to lighten the envelope to be posted to RNLI.
I know this total does not sound much, but when you consider we only managed to sail for about 3 hours in total, due to the cold weather and time of the year, we did quite well and were fortunate to be able to sail on the pool that weekend, as since then the pool has been frozen over and I doubt if we would of been able to get anywhere near this total by simply rattling the bucket at passers by, going past a static table display.

I am proposing to take the RNLI collecting box to all future pub meets and sailing afternoons and then send further paymenst as dictated by the sheer weight of the collecting box!

If anyone would like to donate to the RNLI via our club, we can accept "paypal" transactions, rather than you have to post cheques to us. Please email me for the details for paypal transfer.

Mersey update

2012-02-08T22:12:00.000Z

I'm trying my best to encourage a few of our club members to send me some pictures of their own "winter projects", but as yet, not being very sucessful in the challenge, maybe in a short while.

So, just for you all, heres a few more of the Lifeboat.
I have managed to make up the aerial assembly for the main mast, plsu make up and fit the front cabin screen wipers and boxes, as well as adding the ships klaxon horn.

Saturday Sailing 4/2/12

2012-02-05T17:59:00.000Z

2pm sat, after 10 mins of snowfall.

YEP !

Saturday afternoon saw the Midlands and a majority of the UK covered by the nasty white stuff that brings this countries road network to a grinding halt. Needless to say, there was no official sailing at the pool today.

So, just to keep a few interested, heres a few update pics of my Mersey Lifeboat build. I have made a little more progress on the radar/aerial mast now, having only being able to get the main support bars and radar on for the Lifeboat day last saturday.
All the cabling for the lights and radar motor, run down the conduit pipes [as per original full size version] at the sides of the main mast support legs. The navigation lighst have been fitted and wired up, just waiting for the beacon lamp to arrive before being able to close off the wiring access panels.

RNLI SOS Afternoon 28/1/12.

2012-01-29T00:01:00.001Z

First and foremost, THANKYOU to all the club members and members of "invited clubs" who gave up their time, on a not very warm afternoon, to help our club support the RNLI on our RNLI SOS day fundraising day.

The turnout of boats, especially "Lifeboats" was great to see and it certanly gave the members of the public who stood watching for ages something to go home and chat to the neibours about. We hope that we put on a good enough show for them and do certanly hope to do something upon similar lines again.

The fundraising total has not yet been counted as some of our club members will be adding to the "pot" at our next club pub meet on Tuesday, so the total will be published then.

"Sorry dad, I only put the sandwiches in there for a bit to warm up, didnt expect them to get that toastie!"

RNLI SOS EVENT.

2012-01-27T16:55:00.000Z

Chasewater Model Boat Club is holding a club " Sail or Scale" [SOS] event on Saturday the 28th of January 2012.
This is to help the RNLI in their support by way of donations.

PLEASE, if you have a few minutes to spare, pop along to the Chasewater Site and give the RNLI any spare change you may have in your pocket. IT ALL HELPS !

Kindly remember ALL the crews of the Lifeboats are VOLUNTEERS ! they do not get paid for their work and they go out to rescue sailors, fishermen and holidaymakers in all types of weather, be it a hot sunny day, when youe leisure boat ran out of fuel or a fishing boat gets hit by a freak wave and crew members get hurt. They go out to ALL calls for help.

GIVE GENEROUSLY AND KEEP THIS SERVICE GOING.

Chasewater lake update 21/1/12.

2012-01-21T18:20:00.000Z

Sorry, but no club sailing today. Rain and high chilly wind stopped play. So whilst at the site, ive taken some more pics of the main lake, so you can see where all this rainwater is going............... in the lake !
its filling up nicely, as you can see.

Also on the positive side... the rain has also been filling up our sailing pool too.

Cruise liner incident

2012-01-15T00:03:00.000Z

Costa Concordia's captain arrested after three die in cruise accident

The captain of the Costa Concordia has been arrested after at least three people were killed when the luxury cruise ship ran aground off the coast of Tuscany, Italy.

A further 20 people were injured when the liner hit rocks near the island of Giglio and started to sink, shortly after beginning its voyage on Friday night.

The Costa Concordia's captain has been arrested (AFP/Getty Images)

Around 40 others are missing and divers are continuing to search cabins on the ship, which is now lying on its side in the Tyrrhenian Sea.
Prosecutors have arrested the captain, Francesco Schettino, on suspicion of multiple manslaughter and abandoning the ship while passengers remained in danger.
Local media reports claimed the Costa Cruises vessel's first officer had also been detained as part of the investigation into the accident.

Passengers who made it to safety complained the instructions to evacuate the ship were unclear and that the crew waited too long to launch the lifeboats. Some compared it to being onboard the Titanic.
Italian authorities will look at why the liner followed a route so close to the shore and the reaction of the officers after it ran aground.
It is believed 37 of the 4,234 people onboard were British and although Costa Cruises said they had all been rescued, the UK's ambassador to Italy, Christopher Prentice, told Sky News his staff had not yet confirmed that.

Reports in the local press have suggested the three people known to have died were two French passengers and a crew member from Peru.
Several reports were also made concerning the failure of several lifeboats, the launching mechanism either failed to operate or the crew were unable to operate them correctly.

Our hearts and deepest sympathy go out to the lost and missing as well as those fortunate enough to of survived the incident.

Saturday Sailing 14/1/12

2012-01-14T17:04:00.000Z

UNFORTUNATELY..................... due to the overnight freezing temperature, the pool was frozen over today. A few brave members did turn up, but had to return home. perhaps I should of gone myself with my "icebreaker" [Dusseldorf fireboat].

In the mean time, Mark "B" has been upgrading his Apache powerboat over the winter period and has modified the exhaust system. he has kindly sent some pictures over for you to see.

In the meantime, I have been steadily continuing the build on my Mersey Lifeboat. Unfortunately it will not be finished in time for the RNLI SOS Day on the 28th of this month, " WEATHER PERMITTING" of course, this will kick off about 1pm in the afternoon.
The Mersey is seaworthy and will sail, but the build is taking a while to complete, especially as 99.9% of the bits have to be measured off the RNLI plans and then fabricated from scratch totally.
I have installed a bilge/cooling water pump, as the original idea of simply using a water pickup, did not let sufficient water through to be visible exiting the engine exhausts, so now have opted for an electric water circulating pump, normally found in a drinks vending machine! I have also started to install the toe boards on the deck area, first fitting the base plates, bonding them to the deck and then adding the toe boards oncely set in place. The next task is to build and fit the stern trim tabs. I have fitted the one side and am halfway through constructing the second.

Saturday Sailing 7/1/12.

2012-01-08T13:39:00.000Z

This afternoons sailing saw the brave but few in attendance at the pool. it may of been somewhat sunny, but I can asdsure you it was not too warm, as you can see by some of the pictures of the fashionable winter jackets and hats. Many thanks to Mark for taking his camera along, as I was not able to attend, spending my time behind a keyboard sorting out club files for 2012.
the pool water level has risen, due to the rain we have had over the past couple of weeks, which has diluted the green algae down a lot, but the number of discarded plastic bags, especially bread bags is increasing.

It would be really nice if after people had taken the time and effort to visit the pool, to feed the birds, they would DISPOSE OF THE BAGS IN THE BINS ! and not leave them to be blown by the wind, in to the pool, where they become a danger to the wild birds AND our model boats.

PLEASE PLEASE DISPOSE OF YOUR LITTER IN THE BINS LOCATED AROUND THE POOL.

DON'T KILL THE BIRDS YOU ARE FEEDING BY LETTING THE BAG BLOW IN TO THE WATER. The birds can often go after the bread bags, to see if any more bread is inside and end up suffocating with their head stuck in one, especially if it is half filled with water too.

The final touches is being done to the clubs HUFFY racing and hopefully this will commence in February, with races on a regualr basis, watch this space for further updates.
The majority of club members have renewed their memberships [many thanks], sorry but to keep costs down you will not get a response to say your payment has been recieved, but your membership packs will be posted out as soon as the club handbooks arrive with me.
The packs will include a few more pages this year as all members will recieve aplication forms for the HUFFy racing, best sail or scale award as well as the updated club member discount scheme.
A yellow "vote card" in included for club members to vote on their nominated boat model too.

On with the pic's:

selection of brushless electric boats ready to sail

Cap'n Mac on a mission.

Hull lowered in to the water, ready to add water ballast.

time to sail!

PLASTIC BAG AHEAD !

IF THIS IS WHAT HAPPENS TO A BOAT PROP< WHAT HAPPENS WHEN A BIRD TRIES TO SWALLOW ONE ?????

Tuesday Sailing 27/12/11.

2011-12-29T17:27:00.001Z

A bit of fresh air to refresh those lungs stuffed full of Christmas festivities! today saw a good member turnout and plenty of fun was had by a few. Sorry to see Dave's airboat turnup, but the rudder servo failed on test before it reached the water, ah well, hopefully next time we might get to do a video update on its latest motor conversion. Mark's zoom suffered yet more problems, seems the esc may not be powerful enough to keep it running.

Chasewater MBC would like to wish ALL our club members AND viewers of the blog a very

HAPPY NEW YEAR !

We hope to see all our club members rejoin us and visit us at the poolside again soon

There is No club sailing Saturday 31st, but sailing resumes again on Saturday 7th January 2012.

First Pub Meet is Tuesday, 10th Jan.

THE "NEW" Club Banner.

"Rescue mission"

How did you manage to be in front Mark? Or were you a lap behind [ha ha]

YES ! Tite I accept recipt of your club membership. I will shortly be booking my one way flight...........

Many thanks go to Sharon for supplying these photo's and to Mark for managing to "borrow " Her memory card out of the camera ! And on with a few of mine also.

Main Lake update ! 27/12/11.

Just a few pictures for those interested in the Main Chasewater Lake.
the main reconstruction work has temporarily stopped for the seasonal break, thus allowing pedestrian walking access across the dam wall. The water level is gradually rising in the deep pool area and we now have two deep pools filling. It will soon be up to the max of the deep pools and will soon spread rapidly across the shallower areas.
These pics will be on the Chasweater main page, see above link, so you can view these with earlier pics to see the changes.

Chasewater Dam update 23/12/11.

2011-12-23T23:43:00.000Z

Chasewater Dam News

Pool Road temporarily opens

Dec 20th, 2011 by lizziethatcher

As you will be aware, due to the hazards associated with the construction works at the site, members of the public have been prevented access to most areas since November 2010 for their own safety.

However, because of the good progress that we have made, we are pleased to be able let you know that we are able to open Pool Road to pedestrians over the Christmas period. Galliford Try will be closing the construction site down for Christmas tomorrow (Wednesday 21 December) when they will be making arrangements for walkers to be able to cross the overflow bridge at the Nine Foot Pool, and so have access along the whole length of the eastern dam.

Unfortunately, we will have to close this access off again when we return to the site on Wednesday 4 January 2012 to enable us to complete the works in this area and will remain closed until completion of the works in the spring of 2012.

However, we hope that this temporary access will allow members of the public to enjoy use of the park over the Christmas break, and we ask that the safety requirements are again respected at the end of this Christmas period.

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December update

Dec 20th, 2011 by lizziethatcher

It might be getting colder by the day and the snow getting ever closer, but on the whole the weather has been very kind to us since the last update in November, and we have made excellent progress with the works.

We’ve finished the main works at the northern end of the embankment and removed everything from the north shore that was being used as a storage area. The grass seed that was spread on the dam embankment is now starting to grow, and last week a team of volunteers has spread cuttings over the area behind the dam to provide a seed bank to encourage the growth of a heathland habitat come the spring.

The work to extend the stop board grooves in the ‘hidden chamber’ which will allow improved maintenance access to the valve chamber in the future is finished.

Water levels continue to rise and the inlet chamber is now completely submerged. There is still a concrete cover slab to cast at the canal basin which will be done in the New Year – otherwise, our work in that area is complete.

That leaves the works in the Nine Foot Pool. The casting of the concrete spillway slab was originally programmed for the New Year. But we have taken advantage of the weather conditions and brought that forward and were able to cast the final section last week, completing that work.

Concreting work can be difficult in the winter as ideally, temperatures have to be above freezing and rising for new concrete to be placed, otherwise the frost can seriously damage the fresh concrete.

We can now be reasonably certain of completing the Redirock retaining walls around the spillway early in the New Year as this operation is not adversely affected by cold conditions.

The last items of concreting work on the project are the headwalls to the overflow pipes and the main weir in front of the spillway, all of which are planned for the New Year, weather permitting.

Finally, could we, the Chasewater project and site team, thank you all very much for your continuing patience and understanding over the past year. We would like to wish you all a very Happy Christmas and very much look forward to handing Chasewater back to you soon after the New Year.

Holiday Sailing.

2011-12-20T18:10:00.000Z

Due to the hectic rush of things this coming weekend [ and the following new year one], Saturday sailing will be "rainchecked". We will however be sailing on tuesday 27th [weather permitting]. We aim to kick of around 1pm if anyone needs an excuse to get away from the family or has had more than their fair share of twister games, or that damm drum set is causing a ringing noise in your ears!

Saturday Sailing 17/12/11.

2011-12-17T13:41:00.000Z

Due to the rather wet and cold weather, the majority of our club members are not sailing today, so there will not be any pictures to post.

I will however take this oppertunity to wish ALL our club members AND ALL of our visitors to this model boat site a very

HAPPY CHRISTMAS !

I hope you all have a nice holiday and all your wishes are granted. I would like to remind club members that "IF" they do get a "project" for Christmas, don't forget to send some pictures of it, durings its construction for us all to see. No we don't want pictures of you in your PJ's by the tree on the morning of ther 25th, jumping up and down in excitement, wearing those "only once a year wear" Xmas socks [ha ha].

to those club members who have sent in their club membership renewals, we thank you and to those who are yet to do so. HURRY UP !

2011 Birmingham International Christmas Tattoo

2011-12-14T06:00:00.001Z

Something a bit different for you, makes a change for a bit of live music, well, its been 12 months since the last show so why not!

No Tattoo would be complete without the Gun Competition. This year there were three teams, Abbey Wood Royal navy & Army team, MCTC Field gun crew nd of course, RAF Cosford. Yes, "WE" won, with a record time of 1min 28 seconds.

For anyone interested in joining Chasewater Model boat Club for 2012, Membership application forms are available from: chasewatermbc@hotmail.co.uk, don't forget to send your full address details with your request

We can also supply 3rd party liability insurance, which is required when using any of our club waters, please make a note of this and add to your application request as above.

I have had to upload some of the larger/lonnger video clips via U tube, these are contained within seperate posts.

The Band & Corps of drums of the Yorkshire volunteers.MOV

2011-12-14T00:28:00.000Z

Norwegian kings guard display.MOV

2011-12-14T00:23:00.000Z

norwegian kings guard 1.MOV

2011-12-14T00:16:00.000Z

Nationl youth marching band 1.MOV

2011-12-13T23:57:00.000Z

Saturday Sailing 10/12/11.

2011-12-12T22:19:00.000Z

Firstly my tahnks go to both Mark and Tony for the pictures of todays sailing. Due to my attendance at another "show" Mark took over job of photographer, but then had to ask for assistance when his camera batteries gave up!
I went over to Birmingham to watch the International Military tattoo again. Watch this space as some pictures and video clips will follow shortly!

On with the sailing Pics. Dave has revised his little f1 boat and it now proudly displays an air driven propeller.
but is it a boat? An air boat? A wingless plane? OR.....a submarine ?
Ansewrs on a postcard, to be recieved no later than..........................

Club member winter project.

2011-12-10T14:05:00.000Z

This is a few pictures of a club members "Winter Project". Albeit not a full new build, this vessel is undergoing a "refurb/refit" in preparation for a full sailing season in 2012. Built a few years ago, the paintwork has taken on an "aged" tone and looks really well, rather than the brilliant white of a new boat.

"Here,s a few shots of the tanker "Belgulf Union " that ill be refurbing in the next few {cold } months.

Im trying to keep the patina without the ship looking as if

its been worked on.

The railings where in a very poor condition but there coming

along quite well but still have a " used " look about them.

there is a picture of the bulkheads and water tanks going in,

the last shot is of the wheelhouse and decking at the stern,."

Nice one Mac !

Christmas Meal.

2011-12-09T09:28:00.000Z

Tuesday 6th December was our club's first Christmas meal. This was held at the same venue we use for our monthly meetings, plus it is within a reasonable travelling range of the majority of our club members.
We had a total of 26 people turn up which was very pleasing to note and do believe that all enjoyed the meal and conversations during the evening.
It is anticipated that after this event, further evening meals as well as an "annual dinner" will be introduced as we now have kate Hough [Mark's Wife] to look after the social calendar, I wish her well and sucess in this post and hope she can encourage sufficient members to attend.
So, here is the rogues gallery, er, sorry ! Some pictures mark kindly took of the evening, so thats why you don't see our club Chairman in any of them, he was behind the lens.

Now Steve,are you sure you can't accept £25 pound notes?

No, I'm sorry Doc, but £1 notes are not legal tender now

Chasewater Model Boat Club would like to sincerely thank all our club members for their attendence throughout the year, at the club's pool meets, pub nights and also at our show events. We aim to please all and encourage all members to attend when possible and you will be made more than welcome everytime you attend.
Please remember, this is a model boat club, formed by model boaters FOR model boaters. ALL ranges of skill levels, ages and ability levels are welcome to come along and join us. We have few club rules and regulations, only those necessary out of using public access areas, so its more common sense than anything.
We do have some very knowledgable club members that are willing to pass on information to newcomers and members just needing advise or a second opinion. Thats what we are ALL here for.
Chasewater Model Boat Club is here for you !

Saturday sailing 2/12/11.

2011-12-04T17:30:00.000Z

Firstly, our club had its first AGM meeting on Tuesday, a lot of things were mentioned and commented on. the Club is hoping to attend more model boat events in the coming year, providing the organisers will let us attend of course!
Our Club racing is set to kick off in January with the HUFFY racing challenge with both standard class and fully modified class running the course during the races.
The gauntlet has been laid down for all our clubs scale n sail modellers as they too have a prize to look forward to at the end of 2012, in recognition of their skills and efforts in building such fine boats and models.

Saturday afternoon was a typical November day, a little sunshine, but damm cold! there was a fair breeze blowing, so most of the club members decided upon the Chasewater pool being the better/calmer option for today.
heres a few pictures.:

Saturday Sailing 26/11/11.

2011-11-26T18:14:00.001Z

Todays sailing was actually taking pl;ace at 2 venues. Mark was leading some of our crew, over at the South Staff's Sailing Club whilst I personally was over at our Chasewater pool.
Unfortunately, due to the high winds we bagan to suffer this afternoon, the South Staff's creww made their way up to our more sheltered pool to join us there.

Many thanks to Mac , for popping over to meet me and some of our club members and also for bringing over one of his own scratch built merchant vessels. It was a very nice sight to see on our clubs water and hope he too enjoyed sailing with us.

And now for some pictures from a rather "windswept" South Staff's lake, running with a fiar height to the waves. fair play to all the model boaters who braved both the weather AND the water [ in more than one sense of the word].
Many thanks to Mark for supplying these photo's!

Mersey Lifeboat1st motor trial

2011-11-26T00:38:00.000Z

Ok so I have managed to wire up the electrical panel. ALL the components were supplied from Action Electronics. These include a dual motor controller, power board, motor fuse panel and a dual battery controller, which prevents a faulty battery from draining the power from the other one. The board also contains the sound system, which I will add to this update a little later, but for not, this it the Mersey's very first water test, to check the motors out, see the rudders function correctly and of course NO LEAKS !

My Lifeboat update 24/11/11.

2011-11-24T22:37:00.000Z

My own Model lifeboat build continues on at a steady pace. Just purchasing a hull and cabin mould is becomming more of a challenge than I originally thought it would, but nevertheless it will be completed. I have managed to finish painting the hull and moved on to the upper cabin, as well as doing some work now inside the hull.

The "anti slip" surface was achieved by simply cutting a suitably "graded" sanding sheet to size and bonding to the deck before overspraying with primer and paint. Please remember to allow for paint coating, so dont shoose too fine a paper, or the paint will simply fill it all in and you end up with a smooth finish all over. This paper was a 120 grit, so quite rough, but once painted, it leave a nice textured finish.

The engine exhausts have been fitted, along with a water flow system to simulate water cooling water, exiting the pipes when the boat is in motion.

Site follower photo's

2011-11-23T23:05:00.000Z

I'd like to thank Brad, from NSW in Austrailia for kindly sending over some pictures of his superb replica of a JPS boat.
I think you will all agree with me once you have seen the photo's too.
Hopefully, the boat will be making an appearance in the UK in the not too distant future for a photoshoot, so fingers crossed we may be able to post some of those too for you all.

Chasewater Dam update.

2011-11-20T23:30:00.000Z

November 2011 update

Nov 18th, 2011 by lizziethatcher lichfielddc.gov.uk/chasewaterdam...

Most of the main works to the north of the canal are now complete, although we still have to install drainage pipes through the sheet piles and carry out further landscaping works on the north eastern area next to pool cottages.

The repair works to the canal basin are also nearing completion, although the reconstruction of a concrete cover slab over the drawdown outlet is still to be done. This should be cast within the next few days.

Water levels in the reservoir are rising, albeit quite slowly at the moment. The water is now almost level with the top of the sheet piled dam around the inlet to the drawdown tunnel.

The two valves in the main valve house which are used to release water from the reservoir into the canal have been repaired – one of them had jammed shut and the spindle which operates it sheared away – if you watch our video Dam Cam Goes in Deep – you can see this in detail.

The maintenance regime that we have introduced for the valves will mean that we will have to open them briefly from time to time to ensure that they remain operational, but there is a secondary valve further downstream in the drawdown culvert which will make sure that we do not lose too much water from the reservoir during these tests.

Most of the construction activity is now concentrated on the Nine Foot Pool area. We recently completed the overflow bridge wing walls and started backfilling this and the sheet piled cut off wall.

Work is progressing well on the construction of the bases to the retaining walls which will run either side of the spillway area downstream of the weir.

Because of Galliford Try’s planned construction sequence and the need to have access through the whole of the Nine Foot Pool and spillway area, it is likely that the weir itself will be the last structure to be built in the New Year.

Thanks

The SCC team

FAQs ….

Nov 18th, 2011 by lizziethatcher

In response to various queries that we receive from time to time, we have included below a few FAQs relating to the reservoir and dam works:

When will we be able to walk across the dam?

If it is safe to do so, we are hoping to temporarily open the footpath along the crest of the dam to walkers over the Christmas period when the site will be shut down. This, however, depends on the stage that the works at the Nine Foot Pool and in particular, the overflow bridge, have reached at that time. Unfortunately, we will then have to reclose the access over the bridge in the New Year to enable us to complete the outstanding works and the path across the dam will then remain closed until the project is completed in Spring 2012.

When will the dam work be finished and the site cleared?

Subject to weather conditions over the winter which could delay progress, we are currently planning to complete the works and clear the site by late March/early April 2012.

Where does the water come from that feeds the reservoir other than rain water?

The reservoir has what is known as a “catchment area”, an area of land over which rain water, ground water and some drainage run-off collects into various streams and watercourses which ultimately flow into the reservoir.

The catchment area for Chasewater Reservoir is about 9 square kilometres and lies mainly to the north of the reservoir. The main dam was built across the valley of the eastern Crane Brook which rises in high ground in Burntwood and flows into the reservoir along Blackman’s Gutter and into the inlet where the sailing club is now sited.

The secondary, western dam retains streams such as the Big Crane Brook from Biddulph’s Pool and other ponds to the north which before disturbance by mining subsidence and open cast mining flowed into the River Penk to the west.

When will the sailing and powerboat clubs be back open?

This is entirely dependant on the water level in the reservoir and, therefore, the rate at which it refills. The reservoir level is currently around 144 metres above ordnance datum (AOD). Based on historical records and current rates of rainfall, it has been estimated that it may be the summer of 2013 before the reservoir starts to reach normal operating levels of between 150 and 152 m AOD. However, the sailing and power boat clubs can operate in lower water levels than this and so may be able to open a little earlier.

Will Pool Road be reopened, when the dam is finished? If not, why?

It is our intention to seek to close Pool Road to all traffic other than for access to the properties on Pool Road after completion of the works, however, this will be subject to a statutory consultation exercise.

Will there be a DVD released of the works involving the dam and of the hidden chamber?

We don’t anticipate releasing a DVD as such but video footage of the drawdown culvert and hidden chamber was included in an earlier blog update.

Will they remove all the debris and plants before it refills?

Some willow growth will be removed but other plant growth will not. This will die out naturally as the reservoir fills.
Debris will be removed where it might form a hazard to boat traffic or is regarded as waste.

Will fish be put back into the reservoir?

There is no requirement or intention to put any fish back. We estimate that a small proportion of the total fish stock was removed. The majority of fish removed were predatory which may actually benefit the water body as smaller prey species may now be more prolific. In addition there will be a large flush of nutrients through re-fill which will ultimately facilitate the quick expansion of the fish populations.

Can you explain, ‘What is the plug that has been put back in?’

A critical part of the works was to ensure that the brickwork tunnel (the “drawdown culvert”) which runs under the eastern dam from the bed of reservoir and which is the means by which water is released into the canal system was in good condition and fully functional.

Until this work was complete, water levels in the reservoir had to be kept down. Having completed these works, there is now no need to continue to release water from the reservoir and it can now be allowed to refill naturally.

Is there really a plug?
There is no actual plug but the valves that control the flow of water out of the reservoir are now shut.

Saturday Sailing 19/11/11.

2011-11-19T18:33:00.000Z

The main sailing event today was held at the South Staff''s Sailing CLub's lake Near to Gailey on the main A5. The weather was fairly mild, it did also seem as if there was hardly any brees, more the pity for the sail boats, but As Tony our sole "sail boat" today found out, once leaving the jetty area, there was sufficient breeze to make him return his boat back to the water several times, untill his transmitter batteries gave out!
mark brought along his Sea commander and his latest "toy", a zoom boat. Only did we find out later that mark was merely using this visit as a "test session" before going on to our main Chasewater pool to put Carl under a bit of "competition! [ha ha]. Titus and Alan came along with a selection of their boats, from rescue Launch to perkasa and a yet to be completed "MTB." Nice to See Alan back on his feet again! Hope he soobn makes a full recoevery and does not finishj the "Sir Kay" build off too quickly with all this spare time he has at present at home, or he may well need yet another "winter project" to keep quiet with !
Dave brought along his pilot boat and a super little F1 boat for sea trials. Have to say that once it gets a slightly smaller prop and a better battery, it will give some of the other faster boats a run for their money. My Sun Tug made one of its usual appearances and proved ever faithful, but I had a mishap with my Salina Sports boat, grounding out on the shallow shoreline and in my efforts to reverse off, lost a propeller! Ah well, its only my second "lost prop" in 3 years, so i aint doin' too badly [ha ha].

PLEASE NOTE !

WE WILL be sailing at SOUTH STAFF'S NEXT SATURDAY 26th November, as this will be the last weekend we have to Let the owners and fellow members of the Sailing Club , oppertunity to see our boats and club members before making any decision if we may be allowed to return to their terriffic site or not.

Chasewater Model Boats CLub AGM will be held on Tuesday 29th November, at the Turf Lodge, Meeting will start around 7.15pm. Anyone wishing to put anything forward to the Committee, is kindly requested to put in writing and forwarded to the club Secretary before the meeting, allowing sufficient time fotr it to be duly processed and added to the minutes of the meeting.

International Model Boat Show 2011.

2011-11-11T17:18:00.000Z

For those of you unable to get to the show personally, or for those who simply wish to know what its like before going there yourself, heres a breif glimpse of some of the models on display this year.
the main hall was very crowded with loads of people wandering around, looking at model club stands, model shop stalls, of which there seemed to be more than ever I will add. All the stalls were very busy and it was difficult to get to speak to some people I knew, let alone buy anything.
The indoor display pool had a full itinery of live displays, so please listen to the tannoy announcments as they will let you know which club is on the water next. Whilst i was there the Lifeboat enthusiasts society were busy putting on a live display, including one boat with a launchable inflatable boat, which was "cranded" off its deck and on to the water, before being radio controlled seperately on the water.

Heres some pictures of the show stands.

11 11 11

2011-11-11T01:40:00.000Z

11 11 11

We shall never forget all those who gave up their lives and who are still giving up their lives to fight for what is right and for freedom.

Today marks a very special date, 11/11/11 and on the 11th Hour on the 11th day of the 11th Month of the 11th year [2011].

Wear your Poppy with Pride !

Alternative boat trailer design

2011-11-07T00:03:00.000Z

Mark our "I/C" guy has kindly forwarded a set of pictures of the trailer he has designed and built for his onw Apache, The boat he has just recently re worked by a full covering of Carbon Fibre matting. I have to say after seeing this latest conversion, mark has certanly spent many, many hours of hard work ,but the finish is outstanding to see. Well Done Mark !

Saturday sailing 5/1/11.

2011-11-05T17:47:00.000Z

Todays sailing was a little on the cold and breezy side so not many brave sailors around. Unfortunately due to work comitments arrved a little on the late side as all the boats were being put away, so I have no pictures to post,

However as a little "sideline" I will post the pictures of my latest ideas for transporting a model boat, especially if its a bit on the heavy side and a bit too big to carry in a sling type carrier.
I was searching around looking for some ideas to carry my Mersey Lifeboat about on, being 1.12th Scale it makes the hull almost 4ft long anyway.
So what to use? I was intending to purchase some wheels and some alloy and make a carry frame, but when I looked at a "folding golf trolley", I saw some potential for conversion.
So I first made my carry cradle, which also acts as its stand too. I then tried a "test fit" on top of the golf trolley to see where it "touches" and/or whats needed to get it to attach.
Looking at the original golf bag mounts, which are a couple of semi circular base mounts, one top and one at the foot of the trolley, I decided the easiest ideas was to make a couple of wooden "plugs", shaped to fit in the dish of the mounts, then make a "flat" on the top of them to allow the golf bag web straps to slip over and clip together, thus locking the wooden plus to the trolley.
It was then just a matter of attaching these plugs to the wooden carry frame/boat stand and hey presto, a boat trolley. it has a nice wide wheelbase to prevent tipovers on rough ground, nice wide tyres capable of going over wet soggy grass without sinking in. It folds easily for transport AND storage, even the wheels clip in/out.
heres some of the pictures which will better demonstrate the ideas and hopefully give you all "food for thought".

Just to show it can handle a severe "tilt" angle too.

the carry webbing strops under the hull easily contour to any hull shape without the need for fiddly wooden profile cutting.

the boat is only held by a single web strap at present, I will make up 2 correct size ones for the boat once complete, later, but fitted to demonstrate its easy construction and to show it could carry a vast number of differing shaped hull profiles without the need for any conversions.

* Deaks Models *

After some Discussion with Mark Hough, our club Chairman and "producer" of the HUFFY hull kits, Deaks Models has become the "OFFICIAL SUPPLIER" for all new sales.

SO heres you chance to obtain one of these fun boats for yourself. You will find Deaks Models details on our "recommended supplier page", by clicking on the "page link" at the top of this page and Mark Deakin will only be too happy to complete your orders, be it for a simple hull kit, or Makr can now also supply ALL the motors, rudders, propshafts, servo's battweries, esc's etc, be it for a standard class OR Modified machine with a brushless motor setup, makr has motors in stock suitable for both ranges.

New Supplier update!

2011-11-02T00:17:00.000Z

The latest updates for our HUFFY CHALLENGE and Best Scale or Sail Boat prizes Sponser have now been done.

So click on the "recommended suppliers page" link at the top of this page and see their list of items. Deaks Models can supply radio gear, motors, batteries, battery chargers, speed controllers as well as a host of model boat spares. Deaks models is now also a stockist of MMB [Marks Model Bits], so can supply a selection of good resin cast items including Kort kits. I personally have used and fitted MMB korts and found them to be very good and strong in construction. They are good value for money too.
Deaks Models will also be able to supply a full list of HUFFY Spares, either by mail order, internet order OR By visiting their NEW Store.

website: http://www.deaksmodels.com/

email: sales@deaksmodels.com

Tel: 07528 895324. ask for Mark.

Unit 18B, Chasewater Heaths Business Park,

Burntwood, Cannock, Staff's . WS7 3GJ.

Mark From Deaks Models has generously offered to Supply some shop vouchers for winners of the HUFFY Challenge for both the standard class AND Modified classes.

PLUS

To make sure no club member is left out of a chance to win something, Chasewater Model Boat Club have another prize to offer !

BEST SCALE or SAIL BOAT.

Deaks Models is offering a Turnigy Accucel 6 battery charger for the Best presented and sailed Scale or Sail boat.

This Prize will be awarded by votes cast by club members on which they consider to be the best presented and sailed Scale or Sail driven boat. So all thse club members not wanting to opt for the HUFFY Challenge, can look forward to a chance to win another prize too.

Saturday Sailing 29/10/11.

2011-11-01T23:43:00.000Z

Firstly, my appologies for the delay in this update, but I have been waiting for the pictures to arrive.
Saturday saw the first of a months "test sailing" at South Staff's Sailing Club. Unfortunately, several club members decided it was warmer and safer to stay at home, so only 2 members attended the venue, which was very unfortunate after all mark's hard work in getting premission to sail there. I did pop over to Chase pool and did not find any club member there at all, so drove over to the South Staff's club, just for a look, as did not have a "big boat" capable of taking waves with me.
As you can see from the pictures, it is a very nice venue, with a large jetty from which to launch a boat from, as well as a concrete sloped area too, if you prefer to launch from the waters edge. Although even this lake is below its normal water level, it still is higher that our own pool at present.

Tuesday Sailing 1/11/11.

A few club members did sail this afternoon whilst daylight allowed, but unfortunately, no camera was available to secure a few pictures for you.

Saturday sailing videos.

2011-10-24T00:07:00.000+01:00

A couple of short video clips from Saturdays sailing.

I will shortly be deleting the build thread of Marks Fletcher Class Destroyer, as unfortunately, the boat suffered extensive damaged whilst under construction. It got knocked off the top of the book case wth a well aimed duster!

So if anyone wishes to download the picture images, please do so before they are removed completely.

Saturday Sailing 22/10/11.

2011-10-23T21:17:00.000+01:00

This afternoons sailing saw yet another 2 Huffy's take to the pool, so numbers are really taking shape. "Hopefully" Mark will start taking the Huffy racing by the horns and get ome practise is setting up the course, timing and lap scoring OR build a huffy that lasts more than one session at the pool ! [Ha ha]. perhaps a bit more water protection is needed on the electronics inside, as he loves to play to an audience and demonstrate its "self righting" abilities.
Maurice turned up with his newly build SAR Lifeboat, Nice one Maurice and well done to Phil for assisting in the build too.
I took along my Dusseldorf Fireboat and as usual turned out to be a crowd puller once the fire monitors are switched on. Unfortunately, due to the lowering water level, I did suffer from the rudders hitting the pool floor at some points. Hopefully we may get some decent rainfall and add desperately needed water to it.
Carl also suffered from an incident after one of his brushless boats skipped over the tip of a wash wave and glanced the pool wall, so by early afternoon we had 3 boats dry docked.

* Reminder for Club members: There is a Second Pub Night, this coming Tuesday, basically due to the darker nights, evening sailing is not really possible due to low light levels.*

Clubs Christmas Meal.
A reminder that provisional booking will be CLOSED at the next monthly Pub night in November. This is purely so we can confirm seat number bookings with the Turf Lodge carvery, oherwise we may not be able to guarantee sufficient seats available before Christmas.
So please contact me asap to confirm your seat bookings and kindly be reminded that all Deposits
[£7 per head ] WILL be required by November pub meet at the latest, otherwise your seat conformation will NOT be placed.

Club members "winter project".

2011-10-21T17:30:00.000+01:00

One of our club members has kindly sent in some pictures of his own "winter project" for you to look at and he will also send more photo's in as his build continues.
Heres a bit of info about the boat too:
Its a 25 inch long by 7 inch wide stepped hull mono class 1 racer, which also self rights.
the powerplant is a 2075kv brushless motor with built in watercooling jacket and recomended 90amp watercooled esc.
5mm motor output shaft x 4mm flexi-shaft coupling through 4mm flexi-shaft, special stinger drive with no flexi-shaft loss through loose coupling.
the watercooled motormount has been fibreglassed in with kevlar strands through the holes in the bottom of the mount then carbon fibre over the top of the kevlar strands to make it super strong,

In the meantime, my Lifeboat continues to "grow" I have done some more wok on the cabin as well as some "reworking" on the hull, adding the step rails and mountings for the stern trim tabs and rudder tube extensions.

Club news update.

2011-10-19T21:21:00.000+01:00

Mark Hough, Club Chairman has been "treading water" a little in his endeavours to try and secure some alternative "water" for our club members to be able to use, firstly due to the low level of our current pool, means no deep keep boats can sail and also due to the higher concentration of the lower level, some water cooling intakes are blocking with floating debris.
Chasewater Model Boat Club have been granted permission to sail at the South Staff's Sailing Club's water, near to the M6 traffic island on the A5.
This is a temporary approval, untill end of 2011, to check that our boats and members are compatable with use of the full size boats also using the same water.
Sail boats are more than welcome to go along! Electric & steam are also granted permission but at present we have to say NO to I/C AND Brushless powered craft.
We also have to make you all fully aware that this is a "deep water" lake, so there is no paddling in with waders to retrieve your boat here, you will either have to ensure you have a second boat with you [if sailing alone] or hope another club member can rescue your craft for you as we do not own a rescue boat for persons to row out in, as up till now, this was not an issue.
Rest assured, we still have an "ongoing" permission that once the chasewater lake refills and the sailing club there, is restarted, we can use an area of water over the other side too, which will have use of a rescue boat by kind offer of Mark thompson [CMBC member].

Due to the darker nights now, I have to presume that no one sailed on Tuesday afternoon as I have not recieved any message or pictures.
In the meantime I am continuing with my lifeboat build and heres a few pictures of the build so far.

Saturday Sailing 15/10/11.

2011-10-17T17:49:00.000+01:00

Apologies for the delay, but firstly had a glitch with my Pc then, had to upgrade a web browser to be able to get access to this site to update the webpage!

So, Saturdays sailing seemed to be more of a HUFFY afternoon than anything else. A lot of the club members are getting the bug now, so the racing side should be well sorted for 2012 season. All we need now is for Mark to actually set up a few "mock" races, just to get the hand of the organising side of things, so once the racing starts, all will flow smoothly.

DON'T FORGET< WE ALSO WILL BE RUNNING A "STANDARD" CLASS TOO!

* Mark Hough [Chairman] Is currently in communication with a few local "owners" of water space, to see if we can secure some "deeper" water than we currently have so all of you with deep keel sail boats and powered boats with deeper draft can still be able to get some sailing time in too, but more on this subject "as and when" we have some positive and confirmed information for you.

Join The Chasewater Park rangers on a FREE walk !

2011-10-15T17:46:00.000+01:00

Gather free seed on autumnal walk

Chasewater's rangers are inviting young people and their families to join them on their free seed gathering and autumnal walk on Sunday, October 23rd, from 11.00am to 2.00pm.

On the walk, the rangers will help families to identify and collect seeds from the park.

The seeds will then be used in an art workshop to create collages.

Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult.

The walk starts at Chasewater Country Park's Innovation Centre at 11.00am.

For more information, or to book a place, call 01543 370607 or email chasewater@lichfielddc.gov.uk

Film showing Chasewater Dam inlet inspection on 12 August 2011

2011-10-14T23:29:00.001+01:00

This video clip was taken recently so the workmen could inspect and check both the internal structure of the brickwork, but also the control gear for the water level controls. As you can see, one of the Control drives for lifting/lowering the gate has broken and needs replacing.

Club Pub Meet 11/10/11

2011-10-11T23:03:00.000+01:00

Tonights pub meeting had a good turnout of club members, so we were able to fully discuss several "new" things for the club as well as make the "winter change" to the Tuesday sailing's.
1/ Tuesday afternoon sailings will still go ahead, for those lucky enough to be available to sail after 1.30pm of an afternoon.
for those unable to do so, a second "pub meet" will recommence again during the "dark nights", so pub meets will be the 2nd AND 4th tuesday's of every month.
Official club business will only be discussed at the first meeting of every month [as normal practise].
2/ Telford Model Boat Club have rearanged their BPMRS event for the 30th October, if anyone is interested, it will be held at their usual water at Priorslee, Telford.
3/ Mark hough has recently purchased a secondhand brushless motor [skinflint as he is !], from Black Country Models [Wolverhampton] . Apparently, although they do not sel any boat kit, they do sel secondhand helicopters and do "break for spares", so may be worth a phone call before you spend out on brand new kit.
4/ IF any club members wishes to attend our clubs "christmas meal", please be aware that i do need to know in advance and your last date for seat request will be Tuesday 8th November, when ALL deposits will also be collected. Any deposit not paid by this time will be considered as a "no show" and you seat will NOT be booked, simply due to giving the carvery suffiicient notice of seat numbers.

5/ There is a "Model Tractor Show" at the Warwickshire Exhibition centre http://www.modeltractorshow.co.uk/
Sunday 19th february 2012, Some of our club members have decided to catch up on childhood memories of crawling round the carpet with their diecast tractor in hand and go see this show. Kindly follow the link for more details.
6/ Kindly be reminded that MADRC has changed name and now trading as Deaks Models, you will find their updated link "lower right hand side" of this front page. Dont forget they can supply batteries [inc Lipo's] and esc's for boast as well as cars/aero. Plus you will get 10% discount off being a CMBC member too!

7/ The Huffy racing regulations were discussed and agreed by all attending members. they have now been refined and the "pencilled in bits" sorted.
there will be a small charge for registering for the racing championship, but there is now a 1st prize [and may be more placed prizes too -depending on numbers entering]. A brand new FREE HUFFY Hull Kit And a throphy

Sailing Video clips .

2011-10-09T17:41:00.000+01:00

Heres a few video clips from the recent weeks sailing at the club pool site.

Demonstration of the self righting feature of the HUFFY.

Member boat update.

2011-10-05T19:03:00.000+01:00

Mark B has kindly sent me an update to show the upgrade to his i/c Apache boat is now complete. he has completed the addition of the Carbon Fibre "skin" he wanted to fit, so it now has a full outer carbon skin as well as the interior engine bay area has a supplementary layer. Mark has also imported a special water cooled exhaust silencer for the engine too. All we need now is a nice expanse of water somewhere to test it !

Tuesday Sailing 4/10/11.

2011-10-04T20:28:00.000+01:00

A few of our club members sailed during the afternoion today, unfortunately no camera was taken along, so i have no pictures to post today. But it was reported that almost all of teh boast sailed today suffered one failure after another and then for 2reasons unknown2 as yet, they majority of the boats suffered radio interference. now considering they were all sailing with 2.4ghz, its a little concerning that anything could actually "broadband" the finite frequencies use within the radio control frequencies and the technology of 2.4ghz linking with the recievers...............

Maybe more to follow if someone can find out the actual truth here........

In the meantime, whilst I had some more time on my hands, I have done some more work on my Lifeboat hull. the lower hull has now finished with the grey primer stage finally and I have applied its first coat of white top coat, to check for final blemishes, before sanding for a second and a third final coat.

UP Periscope !

2011-10-03T17:33:00.000+01:00

Phil, one of our club members has kindly sent me some pictures of his latest project. A Revell 1/72 scale Gato Class Submarine, converted to r/c he just needs to fit a esc/receiver. It is 52inches long/Mark b. [another club member] built it .It runs on a single 380 motor.

So, [hears start of jaws film music in background], If you boat suddenly dissappears from the surface of the pool one day, just when you are not expecting anything.............we ALL now know who to blame .

Firstly well done to Mark for the "Big Build" and to Phil for not undertaking the hard work of preparing it for R/C control.

Saturday Sailing 1/10/11.

2011-10-01T23:51:00.000+01:00

PHEW ! What a scorcher yet again today ! This hot sunny afternoon saw a good number of club members sailing their boats. Mark and Carl were making the most of the unusual hot weather and were away on Holiday. So no pics of their boats today. Titus was doing further testing of his latest build, an MTB boat, now with the addition of torpedo launchers. there was a lot of interest from people visiting the Chasewater site and many did stop for quite a while, simply watching the boats sailing around. I hope the 2 lads that were allowed to sail my Sun Tug enjoyed themselves, we just hope that "Father Christmas" remembers what you asked for !

DON'T FORGET !

Chasewater Site security gate LOCKS at 6PM !
You can still enter the site, but on foot only [or bike].if attending by car, kindly park your vehicle with care and leave emergency access at al times.

RNLI SOS Fundraising Day Promotional Film

2011-09-28T20:24:00.001+01:00

How we use your gifts

Providing a professional 24/7 search and rescue service covering 19,000 miles of coastline around the UK and RoI is challenging. As an independent charity we rely on the generosity of all our supporters to fund the lifesaving work of our lifeboat crews and lifeguards. To keep them safe we must provide the training and equipment that will meet the demands of an often hostile environment to ensure that they can carry out their duties. We use your donations to support our lifeboat crews and lifeguards.

What your donations can help fund

£16 – Gloves
Hardwearing, warm, waterproof gloves are vital safety equipment. These gloves are specifically designed to haul on wet rope in the freezing cold, yet sensitive enough to fine tune a communications radio.
£42 – Yellow sea boots
To help someone in difficulty at sea, you need sure footing. The RNLI sea boots that have specially moulded soles, which offer superb grip in rough conditions. These boots are also built with reinforced shanks and steel toecaps, protecting feet from injury.
£53 – Safety line
Safety lines, tether crew to the lifeboat via their lifejackets. Each line can withstand the strain of 100kg dropped 2m. During rough seas these lines ensure that if a volunteer falls into the sea they can be quickly recovered.
£74 – Lifeguard rescue tube
The traditional lifeguard's friend. Can be strapped around an unconscious patient - aiding flotation and allowing deep water resuscitation to be performed.
£94 – Lifejacket service
Each year we clean, inspect and repair around 4,500 lifejackets to make sure they are fit to protect our volunteer crews. Each service costs us £94.
£166 – Safety helmet
This vital piece of equipment protects volunteer crew from the worst the sea can throw at them. The RNLI-designed helmets have an inflatable lining to ensure a snug fit, and can be fitted with radio communications equipment so that crew members can keep in touch even in a deafening storm.
£580 – Lifeguard training
It costs on average £580 to train a lifeguard to use the equipment provided by the RNLI. This includes inshore rescue boat and watercraft handling, first aid, responding to critical incidents and promoting beach safety messages to prevent members of the public getting into difficulties in the first place.
£1,214 – Lifeboat crew training
It costs on average £1,214 to train a crew member each year. Training ranges from courses held at the Lifeboat College in Poole, including Sea Survival, to those delivered at stations by our Mobile Training Units. Subjects covered include first aid, seamanship and electronic navigation. In addition weekly exercises at the station help to build teamwork and reinforce safety procedures.

For every £1 given to the RNLI:

81p is spent on providing a rescue service
3p is spent on preventative safety programmes
16p is spent on generating voluntary income

!/12th Scale Mersey Class Lifeboat.

2011-09-28T19:45:00.000+01:00

Todays postal arrival at my home left the postman guessing its contents. A heavy cardboard box 4ft in length and 12" square. Inside? A "Models by Design" Hull, Cabin and fittings kit for a 1/12th Scale mersey Class lifeboat.
Well, I fancied yet another "challenge" and being as the RMAS Morhen is nearing completion now, I wanted to get an order placed, so it would be "in stock" the moment my workbench had been cleared away.
After unpacking and examining the glass fibre moulds, i gave them a good wash in warm soapy water and rinsed them off, the due to the fabulous sunny weather, it only too a few minutes to dry, so thought it the best oppertunity to get my camera out and take a few pictures of it "as arrived" so to speak. I will post "updates" on this website but as yet, have not fully decided to post the full build on a forum or not.
to date, I have put all my boat builds on various forums and it has taken almost as much time to take pictures and type as it has to actually build the boat, so I'm, er "thinking" about "IF" I should do the same yet again, or just simply "do" the build and only take pictures for my own personal collection.................... What would you do?

Tuesday Sailing 27/9/11.

2011-09-27T22:03:00.000+01:00

Tuesday evening sailing was quiet to say the least, but what an evening! the weather was superb, who would think it was the end of September and with more of this weather forecast till the end of the week, well !

Carl had brought along his fast brushless boats again and the weather on the pool suited them, allowing for some fast turns rather than having to throttle back to allow for the turn in choppy water. I took along my Sun tug as I thought it would be a good time to do some decent "dusk shots" with all the navigation lights on. pity I didnt take the camera tripod to lessen the "camera shake" at such long camera opening times, as I have had to discard most of the shots taken, ah well a few more sail nights yet before it becomes too dark before I finish work!

I have obtained a copy of the Christmas carvery menu from the local toby carvery where our club meets once a month [at present] and cordially invite ALL CMBC members to come along and join us at the Christmas meal, further details will follow in the October newsletter issue, so dont throw it away without reading both sides of the paper please!

Saturday Sailing 24/9/11.

2011-09-24T20:18:00.001+01:00

Todays sailing weather was very good, A little breezy but at least that brought out a sail boat! Yep, albeit a little tricky in places due to the low water level. It was also nice to see some new faces and hope you enjoyed sailing with us and look forward to seeing you again at our club meets, every Tuesday and Saturday afternoons. It was also nice to chat to a member of the "Potteries model boat club", oity you did not bring a boat along with you, but "maybe next time" !
Dave had replaced his broken propeller from last week and managed to get some sailing time in his version of a HUFFY, it was a shame that Carl decided to do the attempt to scupper his boat with a side swipe from his own boat. never mind, I believe copies of the highway code are being exchanged in the post !
A couple of "new builds" were also in the water for first sea trials, both of them, MTB's too. they were being run almost bare of upperworks, simply to "test out" the hulls and motor drive systems.

* REMINDER * !

Due to the onset of the darker evenings, please be aware that the automatic barriers at the Chase pool site will shortly be locked "up" on the entrance ramp, earlier in the evening. I believe this will be dropping to 6.30pm soon, but if you approach the barrier, with the red light "ON" and it does not change to green, then simply park at the roadside and walk in. Anyone already on site, will still be able to exit the car park through the "out barrier".

We also have a couple of club member boat build updates to show.
mark has put the decals on his Apache boat and just awaiting a modified exhaust system for it before its ready for testing and Daz has built another f1 tunnel hull. heres hoping this one manages to stay well clear of solid objects eh daz ? Phil has also been busy and he too has an Apache i/C boat as well as a superbly detailled RTTL launch, I cant wait to see this on our clubs waters soon.

Updated club discount supplier.

2011-09-22T23:52:00.000+01:00

MAD RC has/will be changing name shortly and if you type in their original web address, it will direct you to their new site http://www.deaksmodels.com.

Mark Deakin [ Owner], has reformatted his online store to show even more items and will be uploading model boat items when possible, but dont forget, he can still supply batteries and esc's to match any requirement you need, Chasewater model Boat CLub Members can also get 10% Discount on items purchased from Deaks Models, but remember to quote your club membership number and also please remember to take your Valid membership card along with you when you collect your items purchased.

Marks store now takes our club up to 4 suppliers who will give discount to CMBC members, there are not that many clubs with this sort of member benefits around, so dont forget to make your membership fee work back for you when you need to replace or buy new items.

Chasewater Model Boat Club strives to make their members more than just a member of a Club and take your membership fee in exchange for a few newsletters. YES you get newsletters, on a monthly basis, any non computer member gets a postal version, once a month, with all the news of the club, Club members with online availability get a whole lot more, as they can access this site and see every update as and when it is posted within minutes of me hitting the "save" button.

Remember, for all club members renewing thie club membership in 2012, your renewal is only £7 ! Providing you renwew by the end of January 2012. Any members who delays renewal will have to pay full price again of £10, but even this is not an excessive amount, especially when you concider all the club member benefits and discounts now available to you.

On a lighter note, my plans for my mersey Lifeboat have now arrived, care of the RNLI, Poole technical office. They are already scale drawn to 1/20th and are copies of the original design plans, provided by the original builders, so whereas some plans you buy are "someones copy" of a set of originals, these are the real thing, so no innaccuracies.

There has also been another website change/revision. the club now has a "RACING page", where all the clubs HUFFY racing details will be posted, including event results and competitor scores. Club racing is open to ALL CMBC members, with 2 classes formatted for now around the HUFFY boat Kit. There is a "Standard Class", strictly for boats built to the build instructions and "Modified Class", where almost anything goes, apart from modifications to the basic hull silhouette that is, but brushless motors, flexi drives, semi surface props, outboard rudders.............. all permitted, the only thing limited is your own imagination.

IF you have not already bought a HUFFY Kit, then see the "Special Offers" page for full details and contact details for Mark Hough, who is producing the Hull kits.

Talus Lifeboat Launching Tractor.

2011-09-21T23:16:00.000+01:00

Yet another interesting "short" Video made by the company thats makes these vehicles.

Wells Next The Sea 2010 Wells lifeboat recovety pt 1

2011-09-20T18:32:00.001+01:00

Ever wondered how labour intensive it is to actually recover a Lifeboat, back out of the water and back on to its launching trailer?

Well, thanks to someone who kindly placed this on "you tube" you can all see how its done.

I wonder what "health and safety" would think about the proximity of all those "heads" when the winch ropes take up the tension from the dead weight of the boat.
"Hair today - gone tomorrow"?

"Tuesday Sailing" did not happen today, due to the weather, but at least with everything crossed, it will help to refill the pool up somewhat.

I have been busy making up some figures for my "ordered" lifeboat, just to get me in the right mood for when it does [ha ha]. I was fortunate enough to of bought a copy of Marine moddeling last year where there was an article on how to er, "refine" a readily available resin cast set of figures to represent the current "safety gear" the Lifeboat crews wear. this includes mods to the jackets, helmets etc, but hardy "heavy work", but be careful of the resin dust, alwasy wear a mask wehn sanding of filing/grinding away this stuff, its not very nice to your lungs in breathed in, so beware!

They are not fully finished as yet, still have some final tweaks to do, including the welly painting ! the "seated figure" doe snot yet have his head or arms installed, as I will have to await delivery of the boat to get the correct positions for these items as I intend to install him as the radio operator inside the cabin, so untill he has a desk and radio to play with, his arms will have to "hang loose" !
The observer is well prepared to stand alongside the Coxwain on the main deck, but due to heavy demand on "coxwains", the supplier has them on backorder for a few weeks, but its no problem, I dont yet have a wheel for him to hang on to either for about the same period!

Mark B, has also been busy, modifying his hydroplane boat, he has changed the intake grille for the engine bay. I have to say the boat/s look great together! Well done again Mark !

Saturday Sailing 17/9/11.

2011-09-19T17:22:00.001+01:00

Todays sailing looked a little doubtful yet again, due to the passing clouds, but quite a few members still managed some decent sailing time before the weather turned wet.
dave had swapped the R/c gear in his version of a "Huffy", following from some transmitter problems last week sidlined his boat, but fortune was not with him yet again as after a short sailing time, he brought the boat back in, thinking the battery was low on power, only to find he had lost a blade of the prop! Ah well, better luck next time Dave.
Mark and Carl had their own "modified" Huffy's" poolside again today, Mark also didrt demonstration of the boats ability to "SELF RIGHT", so watch the enclosed video clip on this post. it will also be placed alongside the huffy boat details on the "SPECIAL OFFERS" page on this website too. I took along my Salina again, as I did have some rudder link problems last time out, the "poor fitting" graupner items were spinning on the brass rudder shafts, so they were swapped for some decent Robbe ones, with a more sturdier allen bolt fixing to clamp them firmly to the rudders.

One Man and his Boat ! [Total concentration there Carl !]

For all those people wanting update on the Main lake, Please go to the Chasewater " POOL & PUB" page on this site where I will be putting picture updates, complete with "dates" so you can see the water level, the "greenery" on the lake floor and also the water proximity to the repaired dam wall.

Member build updates.

2011-09-16T22:59:00.000+01:00

Mark has kindly forwarded another picture of his Apache Speed boat, which has has been recovering in carbon fibre. its almost complete now and just needs a few final touches before its ready for the open water again.

I too have been a little bit busy, with my RMAS Moorhen constructing and adding yet more of the side railings around the deck and bow lifting horns. these being totally scratchbuilt, take some time to creat and fit, but well worth the effort. I am yet to finish these rails off, by straightening the sross handrails, then i can finish off with a coat of paint.

"HUFFY" update.

2011-09-14T20:23:00.000+01:00

The details of the HUFFY have now been placed on the "Special offers" page on this site. along with details of all the other suppliers linked to our club. don't forget, they give discount to club members when you place an order.

OPTIMUM MODELS also now carry ALL the additional bits you need to get your HUFFY out on the water. 540 motor, 35mm prop, propshaft, rudder kits............. Dont delay, give Bernard a call!