Gliding club wants more women and young people

Wiltshire's only civilian gliding club has said it wants more women and young people to join its ranks.

Bath Wilts and North Dorset Gliding Club, based near Warminster, is holding an open day on Sunday, during which people will be able take a trial flight, for a fee.

Organiser, Mark Smallwood, said the club is keen to "diversify" to strengthen its flying community.

"The more the merrier, we have a great eclectic group of characters here," he said.

Mr Smallwood added that Gliding "engages your brain" and "a healthy mind leads to a healthy life".

The club welcomes cadet members from 14 to 18 years old, and has a concession for junior members, aged between 18 and 25.

Club instructor, Steve Lambourne, said teenagers who join the club "love flying" and gain confidence by "flying solo before they can drive a car on the road".

Mr Lambourne said he had "switched" sailing for flying.

An advocate of being close to nature he added that flying is "3D sailing".

"We have wind but also vertical wind," he said.

"People don't appreciate just how strong some of the up currents are."

Of the 65 full club members, only two are women, one of whom takes part in national and regional competitions.

Mr Smallwood said that having more women and young people join will strengthen the club.

"It's not just about flying" he said.

"It's about being part of a community. If you're not flying, you're helping people fly.

"It's a wonderful environment."

People are being encouraged to visit the open day with trial flights offered on a first come, first serve basis at a cost of £95, or just meet club members to find out more about the sport.