Police World Edition 1 2014

IPA News

Steve Lets the Lead Fly in Essex Around twenty members and friends had joined me at 10 Region’s annual Clay Pigeon Shoot which I had organised at Grahams Clay Shoot, Purleigh near Chelmsford. IPA friend Brian Winch - who swore that he hadn’t shot for over 20 years (yeah right!). Last place on the day was regular event attendee Elizabeth Stevens who was presented with a trophy by the venue owner Graham Ferris.

The group was split into experienced and novice groups with handicaps appropriately applied. Competitors enjoyed the slightly blustery conditions which affected the clays - making it a real challenge. So I couldn’t believe my ears when I heard my name called as winner of the Dave Ross Trophy. 10 Region members were particularly pleased to welcome IPA shooters from 5 Region: Clive Wood plus guest and former 5 Region Chair, Bob Smith.

Next year’s event has already been booked for Sunday 28 September, 2014. Of course all are welcome. So watch this space. Steve Hunt , 10 Region Secretary

For more information contact: 10region@ipa-uk.org

Some members were so deep in conversation with old friends that they had to be told politely that it was their turn to shoot - such was the IPA motto of friendship in evidence! The first shots ‘shook off the rust’ for some and then the natural competitive spirit took over with lots of comments just as people were about to shoot. Honestly I wasn’t tying to put them off. In second place was 10 Region

Brian Winch

Steve receives the trophy

Elizabeth gets her prize

Sprouts Wings

IPA Cumbria Branch

S p r o u t s W i n g s

soon settled in to it. I loved the experience.” He added, “ I just wish I could do it more often.” Bill Bertham, who used to work for British Airways before joining the police said, “ Although I have flown many hours I still get a kick out of it, Alan is a great pilot and a very good instructor.” Anyone wanting to find out more should contact: cumbria@ipa-uk.org

All agreed it was a thoroughly enjoyable experience and would do it again. More members have now put their names down to risk all. The two flights lasted about 45 minutes each, during which time the members experienced taking off and flying the aircraft. Bill Miller said, “I was a bit nervous at first but I

Cumbria branch saw the first intrepid flyers risk all in a new venture when they took to the air over Blackpool. IPA member Alan Pattinson, a very accomplished pilot, has offered to fly members around the skies of Lancashire on a cost sharing basis. Bring your own parachutes! Alan can take up to 3 people at a time. The first to try out the new venture were Bill Miller, with his wife Pam, and Bill Bertham.

Bill Bertham takes the controls and gets great views over Blackpool

Over Blackpool tower

The Millers with Alan

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POLICE WORLD Vol 59 No. 1, 2014