Newbie - do you need thermals just to learn?

I recently saw the Bob/Rob program on BBC2 (UK) and I desparately want to learn to paraglide. Do you need to have thermals being generated just to learn the basics.

Can you glide down a hill with only a little wind? I'd like to start to learn this winter (asap) but fear that i will have to wait until summer. I live in Nottingham, not too many hills, but i am willing to travel (70 miles-ish)so if any one can suggest some places/clubs.........

Thanks in advance.

Thanks for the advice.

I found a club that I am thinking of joining/visiting. 'PeakParagliding' at 'Hope' in the Peak District, Derbyshire. http://www.peakparagliding.co.uk

I think these are probably the best hills near Nottingham. It's certainly the most convenient for me.

Thanks again,

might see you in sky soon!!!!

'Ay, weerathi, Chalkine?' 'overope!' 'Weer?' 'Ope, Ope, overope!' 'wotsthadewin overopelad?' 'guinup, ah reckon!'

(Rod Buck, Parliamo Sheffield (?))

I love that.

That ain't a club - that's a commercial school - but it's OK, -clubs don't teach beginners, anyway.....

- Rod Buck

Thanks, Rod for the reminder of homespeak.

No, you don't. In fact lack of thermals with a relatively smooth steady airflow is best for starting out.

Yes, that's how most people start.

I'd like to keep flying this winter but fear that it's going to do nothing but piss it down for the next 6 months.

The weather isn't so good, and it's not so much fun, since it's easy to get very cold being stuck on a windy hillside all day.

see