Winds gusting to f5 indicated that a cruise downriver, mooring overnight in the Bradwell area, was not to be recommended. A sail up to Malden, with a bit of shelter from the land, was the alternative, returning to the Blackwater S.C. for the evening.

Charles Stock led the way in his 16’ Falcon Shoal Waters, followed by Dennis Dunne (Jumpahead Cat.), Eric Morrison (11’ Gull), and Ian McCreery (12’ Tideway). Jack Whitby crewed for Charles, leaving his Gull, already rigged with camping cover, ashore.

On the return trip, Charles went south of Northey Island over the causeway, where Eric and Maureen Coleman were seen in their new cruising dinghy, designed and built by themselves. Charles then took a short cut across the island, which provided quite a hair-raising time for those following who were unfamiliar with the narrow twisting channels, only some of which led out into the open river.

By Sunday the wind had dropped away, leaving a pleasant, steady breeze, and the boats moved off from the club, on the ebb, to meet at the mouth of Lawling Creek. The aim of this get-together was to exchange boats for trial sails and have a look at cruising gear. Whilst the boats were assembling, a very smart 22’ gaff cutter came in, helmed by Reg Seal. As he was expected to appear with a 14’ West Wight Potter, the change of boat caused some surprise.

Thanks, Charles, for arranging the East Coast rally. A tip for the South Coast Secretaries: the chance to have a sail in other boats and to have a look at gear afloat is very worthwhile. Why not try this idea out at one of next season’s rallies?