Winter Warmer talk by Met Office weatherman, 8 Dec

Mark Rogers from the Met Office will update us on modern weather forecasting. Weather is something that affects every mariner. Can you read the clouds, what is a synoptic chart and how will it help me? Everyone knows that the Met Office forecasts the weather but how is this done and what are their roles and responsibilities within the UK and around the world?

The CA Kent Section Winter Warmers are held at The Dog & Bear Hotel, The Square
Lenham, ME17 2PG. All are welcome. There is a small charge of £3.

Situated 8 miles East of Maidstone, just off the A20 in the village square. Many eat beforehand and it helps speed up service if you telephone the pub on 01622 858219 and order your meal before 5pm.

Kingsferry Bridge problems return

The MSBA has been made aware of the return of unacceptable practices by the bridge operators in October.

  1. Bridge operator not responding to repeated VHF calls on Ch 10 until contacted by Medway VTS.
  2. Bridge not being raised fully despite assurances given to the MSBA by the previous Senior Regional Operations Manager
  3. Operator calling boats through when ship approaching from opposite direction

We have filed an official complaint with Network Rail, listing dates and times of incidents, but have had an unsatisfactory reply that does not address these points. Network Rail say the bridge is only being lifted fully for commercial, not recreational, vessels and that the bridge will not be raised more than once per hour. Masts are expected to be lowered when possible.