This visit was initiated by David Williams last summer. Ever since I began learning to glide, I have wanted to delve deeper into the history of glider design and development. When David proposed this event, everyone was eager to participate. A total of 15 members joined the tour, and it was my first time travelling with the group, which made me particularly excited to see various classic glider models and even try piloting an old glider.
It was a sunny morning, and since the drive from Cambridge to Lasham took about two hours, Marteen van Casteren kindly picked me up early. Together with Yi Yang Wang and Shane Guy, we set off. During the journey, we engaged in lively discussions about vintage aircraft and flying experiences. Both Shane and Marteen are experienced pilots, and their insights were incredibly beneficial to me. Upon arriving at Lasham, I was surprised to see commercial aircraft at a gliding airfield. The airport featured both grass and concrete runways and taxiways, and its operational model differed significantly from that of the Cambridge Gliding Club. There was also a café offering a variety of meals, where we enjoyed a hearty breakfast before David took us to explore the centre’s archive.
In the archive, he showcased various paper glider designs and assembly drawings, discussing the restoration processes and challenges involved. The design sketches, hand-drawn on tracing paper, had become fragile or damaged over the years, requiring professional materials and expertise for restoration and categorisation—a monumental task, as these documents are vital historical records of gliding. The archive also housed numerous magazines and books about gliders, some of which originated from the Cambridge Gliding Club. David has been learning to glide and helping to organise the archive since he was young, and I could feel his passion for preserving these important historical documents.
As we observed the weather deteriorating, with dark clouds rolling in and light rain beginning to fall, we sensed that flying would not be feasible that day. Fortunately, David led us to the Trish Williams Memorial Workshop to visit the glider workshop. The workshop was well-equipped and tidy, housing parts of nostalgic glider structures. We enthusiastically discussed various materials and mechanical applications, and the staff provided detailed insights into the historical evolution of gliders. We then proceeded to the Chris Wills Memorial Hangar to visit the glider museum, where we explored two hangars packed with a vast array of gliders, each unique in shape, colour, and material. The staff offered thorough explanations, and the walls displayed detailed information about each glider. Showcases featured various glider models, posters, everyday items, badges, and more. The entire tour was rich in information, with vibrant gliders filling the hangar, creating a stunning visual feast.
Finally, we relaxed in the workshop, sipping coffee and tea while enjoying snacks and continuing our discussions about gliders. Although the rainy weather prevented us from piloting the vintage gliders, it provided an opportunity for everyone to gather and share their gliding experiences. On the drive back, we continued our lively discussions. I thoroughly enjoyed this memorable experience, which broadened my horizons and deepened my love for gliding. I am grateful to David for organising this tour and to Marteen for driving us back and forth. For anyone who hasn’t visited Lasham Airfield and the Gliding Heritage Centre, I highly recommend it!
