Sidmouth Sailing Club had an excellent turnout of 30 members for the latest annual general meeting held in the clubhouse, writes Lisa Craig.

Club president Oliver Salter opened the meeting and chaired proceedings throughout the evening with the retiring commodore reading many of the ‘thanks’ proposed to the committee, volunteers and indeed supporters and families that had helped continue to make the club such a vibrant happy and successful one.

Although the sailing was hampered at times by the great British weather, the junior and development section of the club and the training in various disciplines continued with much enthusiasm, along with varying well-attended social club events.

The racing that did take place was challenging at times, but well contested, and led to a fabulous presentation evening at the end of the season - where there was a great youth contingent present as well - to receive prizes and hand-crafted sailing club mugs.

Sidmouth Sailing Club continues to be a family-friendly club with sailors from the ages of 10 to 90!

Both adults and children get a chance to learn and develop their sailing skills from qualified instructors and incredibly supportive helms.

Everybody then has a chance to enjoy the ‘après-sail’ atmosphere in the welcoming clubhouse with the balcony that offers such a splendid view out to sea.

The 2017 RYA ‘Push the Boat Out’ event was well-supported and introduced around 40 people to a taste of sailing.

This is a yearly event inviting anyone with an interest in sailing to come and have a go with our extremely experienced, competent and enthusiastic helms, backed up by safety boats and beach helpers.

One of the main aims of the club this year is to welcome more families and members to join, either in a sailing capacity or as a social club member, allowing everyone to enjoy this fabulous sport from the most idyllic spot in town.

The AGM announced that the membership fees would be frozen this year and that the rates are very competitive.

Saturday sailing starts at the end of March and Wednesday evening mid-April.

For more information on all things Sidmouth Sailing Club, visit www.sidmouthsailing.org.uk and for membership enquiries, email membership@sidmouthsailing.org.uk