A wintry Easter, followed by April gales, has delayed sailing for many of us this year. One boat braved the Norfolk Broads rally in March. Let us hope that a fine summer will enable us to gather in greater numbers at future meetings — or to sail further afield alone if that is what we prefer. If you are visiting a new cruising ground, it is always worth writing to members who live locally; they will usually be delighted to meet newcomers and to show off the advantages of the vicinity.

This Bulletin is being sent to all members on last year’s list. Very many have not paid subscriptions yet, and unless the position improves, facilities will suffer. Our plans for reprinting articles, even this Bulletin’s appearance, depend on the regular payment of subscriptions. So, if it applies to you — read Jack Whitby’s letter which follows.

SOUTH COAST GROUP

Meetings were held in March and in April at the Cormorant, Porchester. Attendance was quite good, and some potential new members also attended.

Rallies are planned for June, July, August & September.

June 13th-14th: Launch at Bucklers Hard (HW Sat 0627 & 1914) Rally: Newton IoW at 1800 Saturday Organiser: John Deacon, 20 Berrylands Road, Caversham, Reading

July 18th-19th: Launch at Emsworth (HW Sat 1151). Rally: Bembridge Harbour IoW at 1800 Saturday Organiser: Ken Peters, 5 Byerley Close, Westbourne, Emsworth, Herts.

August 1st-2nd: Launch at Warsash, The Rising Sun, or at Netley Cliff (HW Sat 1210) Rally: Folly Inn on Medina, 1½ up river of Cowes Organiser: John Deacon

September 12th-13th: Launch at Bucklers Hard (HW Sat 0928) Meet 1100 at entrance to decide rallying point Organiser: Jim Smith, Acacia Cottage, Chapel Lane, Aston Cantlow, Solihull, Warks.