Information for Visitors to Setley Pond

Setley Pond (click for directions) is a beautiful place to sail model boats and we welcome visitors, whether you come with your own boat or just to watch the action and enjoy the scenery. If you come to watch, please feel free to ask questions about the models and how they are controlled. But please don't touch! They take weeks, sometimes years, to make and only seconds to break. If you have children with you, please keep them under close supervision. In some places the deepest water is close to the bank of the pond, and children can quickly go out of sight amongst the pond side bushes and undergrowth.

If you bring your own boat we ask you to abide by a few rules. These are to prevent collisions and damage to models, and also to adhere to the Forestry Commission regulations on pond use. The Club pays an annual fee to the Forestry Commission (in future the National Park Authority) to allow the pond to be used for model boats, and that entitles us to exclusive use of the pond on Club days, but also imposes on us a number of obligations.

The Club has two sections. The Sailing Section use the water for racing their yachts (normally on Tuesdays, and Fridays, 10am to 12 noon), and you are requested not to impede sailing if you are at the lake and racing is taking place. The Scale Section meet on Thursdays and Sundays from about 9am (throughout the year, weather permitting). Visitors are very welcome to use their own models on Scale Section days, but we have to ask you to adhere to some guidelines!

First, note that IC powered, and fast electric racing models, are not allowed on Setley Pond by the Forestry Commission (this is to avoid noise disturbance to nearby residents). Such boats are allowed at Stoney Cross pond. Hovercraft are allowed but we ask you to adhere to the club's Hovercraft rules which again are designed to limit noise disturbance, as well as to minimize collision risk.

Before putting your boat in the water please consult a Club member with regard to Radio Frequencies. If you have bought a "Ready to Run" model please Read This!. If you have a crystal controlled model in the 27MHz or 40MHz bands you will be asked to use the "Peg Board", please see our Radio Frequency Guide. Unless you are covered by insurance through being a member of another Model Boat Club, you will be asked to pay a one-day membership fee of £1.50 which gives you insurance cover under the Club policy (a Forestry Commission requirement).

Finally please do not operate boats at fast speeds near the car park end of the pond. This is to avoid damage to, or swamping of, smaller scale models. The area where fast boats may be operated is shown on the photo left (click for larger image). Be assured that these few rules are only aimed at ensuring an enjoyable day for all; we are a light-hearted crowd who enjoy our time at the pond and will be happy to share it with you... do come along!