The primary objective for the day was to allow team members to undertake their regular stage 1 (dry run' refresher training.  In addition there were three probationers who had not yet received their formal helicopter training. 

Dry runs involve the helicopter shutting down on the ground whilst the winchman / winch operator take us through the various do's and dont's plus what to do if.......  This is then followed by a flight with winching. 

The original plan was for RAF Boulmer to come across from the North east, but on the delay there were mechanical problems with their craft so RAF Leaconfield were tasked and arrived later that afternonn.  Whilst they were shutdown, standard checks were carried out on the aircraft and it was found that there was a problem with the gearbox (low oil) which meant there was high risk of mechanical failure and forced landings.   The machine was grounded pending arrival of a second helicopter with engineering staff.

It was fortunate that the fault was spotted prior to us having the second part of the training which would have involved winching on the fell.

Team assembled at Wasdale Head Hotel waiting for the aircraft - how do you kill an hour - take some photos....

It's a dog's life

Study the wild-life

Ready for take-off - into the wind

Eventually the helicopter arrived - orange smoke to let the pilot know wind strength and direction to assist their (into the wind) landing

Setting the machine down 

Dry run briefing

Winching stops and grommet hook for day sacks

Winching wire and how the wire is cut in the case of emergency (you may be on the end of it)

Normal aircraft approach from the 3.00 o'clock position - usually in a stick of four or five personnel depending on fuel load

Rear seating position by the bubble windows - used when searching from the air

Checking the gearbox

Jobs off