The fantastic weather over the weekend was enjoyed by everyone interested in swimming and sunbathing, but did not lend itself to those interested in sailing because of very little wind, writes Simon White.

Club racing was postponed again due to the very light winds and so attention was centred on the RYA course.

This weekend saw the final two days of the RYA course being run at Sidmouth Sailing Club. With the students having completed most of the theory and dry drills it was hoped that the wind would rise to the occasion and help finish the course on a high.

This was not the case and the students had a further two days of light wind sailing to complete the course to earn their certificates.

Nevertheless, the seafront was the scene for a lot of water-based activities over the weekend with some of the juniors at the club taking the opportunity of putting the final touches to their raft designs and getting them on the water for some much-needed sea trials and fun in readiness for Regatta Day.

Now for news that something new is coming to Sidmouth! Do you kayak, sail or use other pleasure craft off the beach at Sidmouth? How far do you venture? Do you know how to raise the alarm if you get into difficulty?

We agree with the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) that a mobile phone is not ideal for raising the alarm!

So, in association with Sidmouth Lifeboat, we have decided to teach the RYA VHF-radio Short Range Certificate at Sidmouth Sailing Club/Lifeboat Station. Why? Well, we recognize that a waterproof radio with a capability to alert the emergency services is the best solution for getting help. Importantly, no one should use such equipment without an appropriate licence and appropriate qualification. We can now offer training that will qualify you to obtain the RYA VHF-radio Short Range Certificate, which will then enable you to apply for the free licence.

For further information on course details and fees, call Alastair Watson on 07765 656920. This will be a one-day course, usually run on a Sunday.

Enquiries can also be made through our club website at www.sidmouthsailing.org.uk