Coordinator: Sheena Boyce, Solent Branch Secretary

On a bright spring morning, forty members of Solent Branch made their way to Middle Wallop for a day out at the Museum of Army Flying that included the Captain’s Fitting Out Lunch.

We received a warm welcome on our arrival to the museum that turned out to be a absolute treasure trove of exhibits.  The museum opened at 10am and the Cafe enjoyed a busy start to the day as many branch members took the opportunity for a refreshment break (and chat) before taking in some of the displays.  There was also a good takeup for a short film that provided some background to the museum.

We gathered for lunch at noon and enjoyed a two course meal that concluded with an update from Allan Howlett, our Branch Captain.  Sue Fellowes-Freeman took her opportunity to encourage members to book places for the first rally of the seaon – Easter in Bembridge and Eleanor Redshaw, planning ahead for August Bank Holiday in Southampton asked for feedback on possible activities. Allan invited anyone able to extend their time afloat to join a midweek event in Portsmouth during which a visit to the Mary Rose museum (Portsmouth Historic Dockyard) is planned and reminded everyone to consider participating in the first Dixon race over the Easter weekend.

Our volunteer guides led us on a walking tour of the museum and their knowledge and insight brought the exhibits to life.  Some members made the most of the time left to visit areas of the museum that did not feature on their walking tour – others headed back to the cafe for a final chat before heading home.

The day provided us all with a good opportunity to catch up with fellow branch members, in an interesting venue few of us had previously visited.  Thank you to everyone who came along to join us – we look forward to seeing you all again later in the season.