Dear Member
The Government’s deferral of ‘Freedom Day’ was disappointing, but not entirely unexpected. Let us hope that the acceleration of the vaccination programme means it will be the last postponement. Meanwhile, we must all keep up the long-established disciplines of sanitising, social distancing and the wearing of masks.
At the Club, we have all got accustomed to arriving ready to sail, signing in (and out if leaving early), not using the clubhouse, no galley and generally being aware of the proximity of those around us; thankfully, the warmer weather makes such restrictions considerably more tolerable. Accordingly, and in view of the relatively short extension to 19 July, it is not proposed to change the existing arrangements until we can open up fully.
Despite the constraints, the Club’s sailing programme is being well supported, with good numbers of casual sailors as well as those participating in races. Casual sailors are reminded that they have Saturdays all to themselves. Our OnBoard sessions have resumed and the first youth training course was successfully run on 2-4 June. There are six more youth courses during July and August, as well as two adult courses.
I hope that those of you who haven’t got back into the swing of sailing will come and enjoy the opportunities to get on the water, as well as the Club’s welcoming and friendly atmosphere. Can I again remind those who have not yet done so to book your duties so that each sailing day is supported with safety cover.
While I have your attention, I need to mention that the warmer weather also encourages the grass to grow and – worse still – the weeds, which we are not permitted to treat. The open grassy spaces are being mowed and strimmed by volunteer members (but more are needed please), but keeping individual boat spaces tidy is the responsibility of each owner – and the great majority of these are being neglected. It would help control the spread of weeds on site and improve the appearance of the dinghy park if owners would make an effort to clear at least their own area and keep it clear.
I really believe we are approaching the end of this long and devastating pandemic and can think in terms of resuming life as we would wish it to be.
Meanwhile, stay safe, but have fun too.
Merv Clark
Commodore