North West Model Aircraft Club, Derry

Founded in 1939, North West Model Aircraft Club has developed into one of the best model flying sites on the island of Ireland – occupying six acres of land and proudly boasting two runways (one of which is tarmacked) and a purpose-built club house.  In additional to representing NI in a number of international competitions, the Club is very well embedded within both the local and broader community – eg, under the direction of one member, the site is used by Foyle Search & Rescue to train their drone search teams.  But in order to maintain their grass airstrip they need to replace the badly corroded cutting deck for their ride-on mower.  Recognising the Club’s work with Ulster University’s Faculty of Engineering; its links with Clooney Hall Men’s Club; and other cross-community social opportunities offered to a wide age group, the Committee agreed a grant of £628 to cover the cost of a new cutting deck.