ARDEN Sailing Club swapped messing about on the river for taking their own brand of nautical fun into Worcester city centre on Saturday to let locals know how they could get into sailing this year.
Members left the club’s Defford home on the banks of the River Avon for outside the Guildhall as more than 100 locals – from teenagers to pensioners, individuals and families – stopped by and discovered how they could try sailing free of charge in the next month.
On Bank Holiday May 4 (from 11am), Arden SC welcomes all-comers to its annual open day, where anyone of all ages, experience and backgrounds can get a first taste for being on the water as well as experiencing the social side of club life.
Then, on the evening of Wednesday, May 13, the club will again be opening its doors for free sailing as part of the Royal Yachting Association Push the Boat Out initiative – a nine-day nationwide festival of sailing and windsurfing introducing newcomers to the sports.
Stuart Stephen, Arden SC chairman, said: “As the sun came out and warmed up the city, so the number of people passing by increased. We collected almost 30 names and contacts from people who wanted to know more about the club or learning to sail and promises from most that they would come along to one of our open days.
“At Arden SC we enjoy the beautiful scenery of the Cotswolds, with stunning views across to Bredon Hill. There is something for everyone, from quiet cruising on the river to exhilarating racing for the more experienced adrenaline junkies!
“There is a common misconception that to go sailing you have to own a boat, but that isn’t the case. The club has boats available for members to use and there are opportunities to crew for others if you do choose to join the club. It isn’t as expensive as you might think too as family membership costs as little as £7.92 a month.”
Arden SC is a recognised RYA Training Centre, meaning it conforms to the highest standards of safety and quality. All you need for the open days are warm clothes, soft-soled shoes and a waterproof.
The club will provide what else you need. Bring the family, have a picnic by the river or sample the home cooking in the clubhouse. Under 14s must be accompanied by a responsible adult.
In total, no fewer than six sailing clubs and watersports centres in and around Worcestershire are offering locals free and low-cost opportunities to get out on the water and to try a new sport as part of the RYA’s Push The Boat Out scheme between May 9-17.
For more information on Arden SC visit www.ardensc.org.uk or for full details on RYA Push The Boat Out visit www.rya.org.uk/go/ptbo.