Last season it was noticed that fishermen were using liquid detergent containers as markers for lobster pots and one member sees possibilities in the use of these throwaway plastic containers as fenders. There are some about three inches in diameter and about twelve inches long, and one is rectangular with no name printed on. Can anyone suggest a way of fixing a line to the container and of sealing the opening? R. D.

The loss of A. R. Neale's tent from the banks of the Ouse at bed time prompts the thought that lugging tentage ashore is strictly for the young, and confirms the opinion that it is better to stick to a boom cover. R. D.

There are many ways of dinghy cruising - the President stays aboard for days on end, and carries three week's food, another swims ashore to buy a packet of cigarettes. Some have rump steak and Burgundy, gorgonzola and coffee - others eat fish and chips from the paper. The day they all agree on one type of boat, the Association will lose its meaning. R.D.

Although the racing man likes a powerful mainsheet, a single whip can be used by the cruising man who is prepared to luff up to take in sheet. This will mean less rope to buy and less around your feet in the boat. A.C.S.

If the boom tent sags, this can be prevented by using cane supports joined by a short length of line over the boom. If the cockpit of the boat varies in width and most do, black lines painted on the canes can be used to number them. A.C.S.

A sleeping bag is far more comfortable and, in the long run, more hygenic if you get mum to cut up an old sheet to fit inside it. If you have to use blankets, get them sewn together but if this has not been done remember the old hammock method. Lay the first blanket where you wish to sleep with the surplus half laid out on the right. Lay the second over the first blanket with the surplus half laid out on the left. Stretch out, pull over the left hand bit and then the right hand bit. This way drafts cannot get in however much you roll about. A.C.S.