by Antony Sluce

CONISTON 6-7 June

Despite a number of attempts at raining, Coniston wove its old magic. Peel Island (AR’s Wild Cat Island) was the jewel it always is. Most of the attendees passed at Peel Island. We were late arriving, and Ian Bevon in Tarpon 1 ran by on his way back to CSC. He hailed us and pointed out Mike Clarke and N Skyrme further down the lake towards the south end in their Drascombe Longboat and Lugger respectively. I sailed down to meet them but the wind went very light and we finished up rowing or motoring. Brian Shea had launched after us and we did not meet up till the evening.

Three boats moored in a little cove north of the sailing club for the night. On Sunday there was a good breeze and we had an exhilarating sail down the lake, recovering just after lunch. Ian Bevon and his wife were an exception and stayed on for another two nights with the lake to themselves.

There was a mix up with the Coniston Sailing Club whereby we failed to warn the club of our intended visit. I had a long chat with the Secretary, the outcome of which was very encouraging. In principle the club would be happy to welcome us next year subject to the restraints of their own race meetings and their anchoring prohibitions. The possibility of using the club house to provide a bar to drink around on the Saturday evening was raised. I think it will make a very enjoyable venue in the future. Our thanks to Peter Daley for suggesting it.