MODEL aircraft enthusiasts are sky high after landing a new home described as “one of the finest flying sites in the country”.

Sembcorp Bournemouth Water (SBW) has given permission for members of Christchurch and District Model Flying Club to use Longham Reservoir.

Twelve members of the newly-formed Longham Reservoir Model Flying Group are now using the location for their flying boats and floatplanes.

Group secretary Mike Roach said: “The reservoir is the only freshwater location in southern England and is one of the finest sites in the whole country, being open and clear of all obstructions in all directions.

“We fly our flying boats and floatplanes there as often as conditions are suitable.

“On most calm and sunny days you will find a few of us there.

“We’re hugely grateful to Sembcorp Bournemouth Water for allowing us to use such a fine location for the enjoyment of our members.”

Aircraft range from ready-to-fly models, which can be flown on the day of purchase, through to complex scale models which have taken months to design and build.

The planes are radio controlled and powered by electric motors which are quiet and easy to restart on the water after a flight.

Roger Harrington, SBW’s Managing Director, said: “We have always wanted to facilitate quiet enjoyment of our reservoirs by the local community.

“These models make almost no sound when flying.”

New members are welcome.

Visit www.cdmfc.org or email Mike Roach at roachfoxwood@aol.com/p>