Nottingham and Derby Balloon Club set for open day

Nottingham & Derby Hot Air Balloon Club are holding a special open evening on Wednesday 26th March.

Members of the public are invited to come along and learn all about hot air balloons. Robin Macey will be doing a talk and slide show about how the club operates illustrated by lots of local aerial pictures. Afterwards there will be an opportunity to have a close-up look at some of the club’s equipment and talk to the club’s pilots and other members.

A free prize draw will take place during the evening for someone to win a three month trial club membership and chance to have one or more flights in the club balloon.

Nottingham & Derby Hot Air Balloon Club was started in 1978 and is run by a group of enthusiasts as a non-profit making sports club. They do not operate any commercial balloon rides.

The club owns 2 complete balloon kits and vehicles. Members get a chance to get involved in all aspects of flying balloons.

If someone is really keen it is even possible to train as a pilot although this requires more commitment. No previous experience is required as the club organises regular training evenings for beginners.

The club is believed to be unique as the only balloon club in the country with membership open to the general public.

The club is based at Marehay near Ripley and flies from 6 different local launch sites and in the last 3 years has also flown at balloon meetings in France, Ireland and India and in 2005 the club flew a balloon over the English Channel and has also once appeared in an episode of the ITV drama Boon.

The open evening takes place at 7.30pm on Wednesday 26th March at Lumb Farm Country Club, Marehay near Ripley.

Tickets for the event are completely free but people are requested to phone 01332 704096 or email NDHABC@AOL.COM in advance to reserve a place.

via – Ilkeston Advertiser.