A student from Weymouth is soaring high after being recognised for his dedication to flying.
James Hall, a Year 11 head boy at Budmouth Academy, has been awarded the Dennis Neal Trophy by the Dorset Gliding Club, an accolade awarded to the most dedicated junior.
The club, which launches its aircraft from just outside Wareham, has recognised James for his ‘tremendous progress’.
Since October 2022, James has clocked over 15 hours of flight time and has taken to the air more than 90 times, and is now looking to kick on and get his flying qualifications.
He said: “My initial goal is to achieve clearance for solo flight and award of the British Gliding Association (BGA) Certificate, followed by development through the BGA gliding badges and diplomas.
"I find gliding excellent as both a physically and mentally challenging environment, and equally enjoy communicating with, and learning from, the breadth and depth of knowledge of my instructors and other club members."
James is studying engineering as his primary option, and also enjoys playing piano and football, but flying is his passion in life, and hopes he will one day follow in his grandfather’s footsteps.
He added: “Longer term, I plan to obtain my private pilot licence and to join the armed forces as a pilot.
“For this, my inspiration is my grandfather Geoffrey, an RAF bomber pilot who subsequently became a senior airline captain on the B747 with BOAC (now BA).
"I am also active in the local Air Cadets Squadron (1606 Weymouth) building my aviation knowledge through their structured training syllabus.
“This has allowed me to go to multiple camps and complete courses on radio, cyber, first aid and shooting.
“The cadets have further given me the opportunity to fly both the RAF Tutor training aircraft and Viking glider, and as a passenger in the Chinook helicopter.”
Nick Barnes, chief instructor at the Dorset Gliding Club, also spoke about how 'inspiring' it is to see James and others like him come through the ranks at the club.
He said: “The trophy is awarded to the junior who has made most progressed and is dedicated to flying and gliding.
"This year it was awarded to James – he has made tremendous progress and will make a tremendous pilot.
“It’s inspiring. I have been a member since 1995, when I was 14.
“I was where James is now and it is fantastic to see young men and woman progress through their careers.”
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