Sad news about mike. He was some character. The guys from Wingbeat still go on about his hospitality.

Scottish Hangliding and Paragliding Federation - Ratho Paragliding Gathering 2012 General Info: http://www.shpf.co.uk/shpf-Ratho-Repack.php Date and venue: 4th of February 2012 Edinburgh International Climbing Arena - Ratho FINAL PROGRAMME: 09:00 to 18:00 Zip Line Parachute Jumps / Re-Packs 11:00 / 11:40 2 Liner Paragliders - Design, behaviour, glorious and brown trouser moments by Brendan Reid. 12:00 / 14:00 Speed Flying by Gordie Olliver (CFI) Gordie is or is about to become the first Speed Flying Instructor in UK. 14:30 / 15:30 XC Flying by Triantafyllos Gkikopoulos (Dr T). 16:00 / 16:45 AGM 16:45 / 17:00 2011 SHPF Comps - Price giving 17:00 / 18:30 Redbull X-Alps by Richard Bungay and Steve Nash. Team GB 1. This will probably be the event everyone is looking forward to. Event prices and benefits for registered Pilots and accompanying family/friends: Pilot Registration: £30,00 (includes zip-line, re pack area and access to presentations on: 2 Liner Paragliders, Speed Flying and XC Flying) XC Alps presentation: £ 5,00 IMPORTANT: Parachute Repacks: There will be at least 3 parachute repack assistants but their role is to give advice not to fully repack your kit. The idea is for pilots to learn repacking their own kit. Bring your re packing manual and spare elastic bands for your lines. It is your responsibility to secure a correct clipping to the zip line hooks. EICA staff will secure the link between the zip line and the zip line hooks. Make sure your gear is in working order and please bring helmet and gloves.

It is with much sadness that I have to report that Mike Wilson passed away on Thursday 12th January 2012. Mike had been battling cancer for some time. He was a great friend to OPC and had hosted many flying holidays in Bidache - organising Gites, cars, meals and taking us to the different sites. Mike had trained with Colin and in his day, he loved his flying. Mike always had a wealth of stories to tell and had lived an exciting life before setting down in France. He leaves a widow Josie and will be greatly missed.