As we approach the 2012 sailing season those of you who own boats are, I hope, checking the seaworthyness of your craft. Rigging, both Standing & Running, needs to be checked out whilst still in port so that it does not fail & leave you in the lurch when at sea. Your hull should also be prepared cleaned & antifouled before you sail. Check your seacocks & make sure these & your log rotors are not blocked or fouled with seaweed & pieces of plastic debris. Check your engines to make sure the cooling system is operating & that it is charging your batteries.

Check your gas system & leak detector. Make sure your spare cylinder is a full one before you set out on a long voyage. Sails should also be checked for failing & worn stitching. Get it fixed before it shreds. Remember a stitch in time saves not only 9 but also the cost of a new sail . After you have taken all these precautions I wish you fair winds & safe sailing in 2012.

For non boat owners like me we will be casting about to find for yachtsmen seeking crews for the Summer. If you are fortunate & find one please ask if you can help with the above checks. It may save you a spoilt voyage or the need to call on the RNLI, this latter a service every yachtsman & landlubber should support.

If you have even a passing interest in saling & want to know more about the sea & places that yachtsmen visit on their trips why not come along to one of our meetings. Your first visit will be free & if you like it join as a member or come again as a paying visitor to the talks which interest you. WHY NOT TRY IT. WE ARE A FRIENDLY LOT & DONT BITE !!

Terry Jones
Chairman