by Antony Sluce

Despite the wet snow falling in the morning, thirty members risked coming. They were rewarded by a most enjoyable day based on members’ contributions, as, for a number of reasons, I had not arranged any outside speakers this year.

Elizabeth Baker spoke about her cruise round Mull, finishing with what turned out to be a remarkable effort of sailing against wind and tide without a centreboard! She also showed a number of slides of the South Coast members and their boats. It was interesting to see the different conditions. In the NW, on the sea, you very quickly find yourself alone once you leave the main mooring areas, and the distances between shelter are so much greater.

Phillip Davies had brought some examples of the types of container he has used in his boat. These included the three washing-up bowl arrangement for a box, a ten gallon drum with a watertight hatch attached to the base, and a selection of ex-Services containers, including a flares box with a wide mouth which would take a sleeping bag. He also had some slides of his Tarpon in a variety of locations which showed what comfortable cruising boats they make.

Jerry Eardley had taken his Wayfarer to Greece, and on a very fast cruise round Anglesey. With a strong crew they can really eat up the miles, out-pacing cabin boats half as big again.

David Chatterley had slides from the rallies he had attended last year which gave a good flavour of what they are about.

Joan Abrams provided an amazing spread for which we must all thank her. Phyl Sluce and Rachel Filshie did sterling work on the day in providing tea and drinks. Elizabeth had brought up the Library and Peter the DCA Shop.

I must apologise for the projector which gobbled up the slides again, and the difficulty of getting in and out of the building.