Dear fellow BMFA member,
Those in the slope soaring community will most likely be aware that model flying at St Agnes has been banned by the National Trust until we are able to agree a License. This ban has a legal basis and anyone flying there is open to prosecution and a very substantial fine.
In late May, shortly after I was elected to my current role, I circulated the attached note (see link below) to all South West Area Clubs saying that no BMFA member should fly at St Agnes until we have obtained a License. This was prompted by the fact that an individual had been noted flying there and reported to the National Trust with the result that our detailed negotiations with them have been put on hold.
It is apparent from social media that people are still flying models at St Agnes. This can only further harm our cause even if no immediate concern is shown by other passers-by and that there is no signage.
There is no easy route through this difficult situation. For the time being our model flying community has to adhere to the ban and not fly at St Agnes. Continuing to fly there despite the ban may well lead to our not obtaining a license at all. There is also the fact that many other flying sites are at risk, many administered by the National Trust. Their hands are tied by the requirements of Natural England and they too have a difficult time. National Trust’s policy towards model flyers in general has not changed, they need our support in this matter. To make progress we have to show that we are a disciplined community; do not fly at St Agnes until a License has been agreed.
with kind regards,
Chris Morton
Secretary, BMFA South West Area
secretary@southwest.bmfa.uk
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