<p>It is with regret that we inform you of the death of David Kerswell, FSMAE on 9<sup>th</sup> May 2016 Fellow of the Society since 1995 following a sustained period of illness over the past few years.</p>
<p>A Yorkshireman by birth, David’s career as a teacher led him into initially forming a model flying club for children; his own flying activities included scale, silent flight and all forms of fixed wing power.</p>
<p>He was a prodigious and excellent builder and adept pilot, many times victorious in UK contests but also supporting the UK Team at World Scale Championships.</p>
<p>He had a brief spell as Society Vice-Chairman in the 90’s and served on the Scale Technical Committee for five years; two years as Delegate, three years as Chairman.</p>
<p>He was an active Chairman of the Northern Area for twenty years until 2004, during which he did much to develop and promote model flying to schools.</p>
<p>He was a founder member of the Education Committee in 1989 until he stepped down in 1995 during which time he organised the Heavy Lift Challenge, which still continues to this day.</p>
<p>He was one of the first Area Chief Examiners to be appointed from the inception of the Achievement Scheme in the late 70’s.</p>
<p>The Society owes a great deal to David and we know you join us in sending our heartfelt condolences to his wife and family.</p>
