Guernsey Friends of Air Search

Newsletter - 2003

News Update

Uppermost in our minds at the time of writing is the sinking of the Guernsey trawler Chelaris J with the tragic loss of four lives. In what was probably the most intensive search ever mounted in local waters, Channel Islands Air Search flew for 12 hours as part of this combined operation involving many boats and other aircraft. Sadly none of the trawler’s crew survived the accident. To the relatives of those who were lost we extend our deepest sympathy.

This search came after a very quiet spell with few calls to service and demonstrated the importance of regular training flights to ensure that the crew are fully prepared for such a situation. It was a very demanding time for the crew who, as would be expected, performed their task magnificently.

During the year it was necessary to replace the radio homing receiver because the manufacturer could no longer provide support for the old one that had become unreliable. The new one, which can detect all the latest emergency locator beacons, is a great improvement and is functioning perfectly. This cost us some £10,000.

Looking ahead, both engines are approaching the end of their permitted overhaul life and will have to be replaced within 18 months. To minimise the time that the aircraft is out of service we shall be exchanging them for factory re-manufactured units which should be good for another 15 years of service. We estimate that the total cost of this will be between £50,000 and £60,000.

The television programme recorded by the French company France 3 was broadcast earlier this year. We have a copy of the comprehensive programme covering both operational and fund raising aspects of Air Search. We were all ‘dubbed’ in French and do not yet have a full translation, so we cannot be totally sure of what was said, but it appears to be a very professional presentation of the work of the service.

A number of groups have attended presentations on the service at the hangar, where they have been able to meet the crew and see the aircraft and its equipment. These have been well received and produced real benefits, not only through donations and sponsorship but also in providing helpers for such things as making tea for the Open Garden as well as encouraging people to volunteer as crew members. Groups have included bank social clubs, scouts and guides, boatowners and Women’s Institutes. If you know of any group which might be interested, do please contact us.

Events

Our most successful event in 2003 was again our Open Garden in conjunction with Floral Guernsey who, as in previous years, have been very supportive. This was held on 8th June in the magnificent garden of Tim and Eleanor Henderson. Over 900 attended on a beautiful sunny afternoon and once again we were honoured with the presence of our patron, His Excellency The Lieutenant-Governor and Lady Foley. The Tree-O musicians played for us creating a superb atmosphere. We raised nearly £3000 in entrance takings and teas at this event, which made a very useful contribution to the funds. We are most grateful to the Hendersons for allowing us to use their garden, and also to all those who donated cakes and assisted in serving teas.

We once again attended the West Show, where we sold goods and raffle tickets as well as talking about the service to locals and visitors who showed great interest in how we operated.

Website

If you have not yet seen our web site it is well worth a visit; it can be found at:

www.ci-airsearch.com

Co-Op Shopping

You can give your ‘divi’ to Air Search by giving share number 83322.

Draw Tickets

Enclosed with this Newsletter are 10 prize draw tickets which we would be grateful if you are able to sell to aid funds. The annual draw represents an important regular source of funds for the service. Counterfoils and payments should be returned to the address below to arrive no later than Tuesday 4th November:-

Mike Quarrington, Champ du Pretre, Les Traudes, St. Martin GY4 6LR.

Items for Sale

Please call Reg Noble on 238622. We also have available a few copy prints of a lovely painting of St. Peter Port Harbour donated to the Friends by local artist Sheila Noble at only £10 each.

The following is list of goods currently available.

Sweat Shirts	£16.00
Polo Shirts	£ 9.00
Ties (new style)	£ 8.00
Ties (old style)	£ 5.00
Islander Broaches/Tie-pins	£ 5.00
Air Search Teddies	£ 6.00
Burgees	£ 9.00
Prints by Sheila Noble	£10.00

Christmas Cards

We have a new Christmas card, featuring a painting by the well-known aviation artist Gerald Palmer, of the Islander outside the hangar on a foul winter’s night. It superbly conveys the atmosphere when the crew are called out in such conditions. Cards are available either blank inside to allow for a personalised greeting, or already printed with a greeting. For more details, please contact Reg Noble on 238622.

Supporters

The Committee of the Guernsey Friends would like to thank everyone who has supported the organisation in one way or another over the last year. This support takes many different forms but is essential for the on-going provision of the service. Sadly, as we all know, few things go down in price and operating an aircraft is certainly not one of them. On top of the operating cost of keeping the aircraft flying, there are regular maintenance costs to be borne.

If you feel you can help in any way, do please contact Julyan Gardener-Wheeler, Tel 266188. Even if it is only an hour or two a year - every extra bit of help counts and is much appreciated by our already limited human resources.

Channel Islands Air Search

1980- 2003

Twenty-three Years of Service

To Fly, To Save

Please help support the Guernsey Friends of Air Search to support them.

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