As part of the nationwide campaign by the Royal Yachting Association to get people out on the water to discover sailing, Twickenham Yacht Club hosted an Open Day on Saturday 20 May, providing the community and visitors as far afield as Malaysia, with taster sessions in a selection of sailing dinghies.

Supported by experienced club members, children and families alike were able to sample sailing on the Thames between Eel Pie Island and Marble Hill Park from the club facilities on Twickenham Riverside.

Youngsters went afloat in small club Oppies fastened to a rope, while others 'pushed out' in newly acquired RS Quests, funded by Sport England to enable the club to train both adults and children safely in modern sailing dinghies.

Even a brief rain shower or two didn't dampen spirits as sailors and crews just headed inside the historic clubhouse to enjoy snacks, cakes, and refreshments.

Over 60 enthusiastic participants discovered the camaraderie of their local sailing club and the fun and excitement of sailing. Many had walked past the club but didn't realise the variety of family-oriented activities on offer, including racing and cruising programmes, RYA practical and shore-based training courses, and social events throughout the year.

Several visitors signed up to become members on the spot and many others promised to come back for more sailing or even racing!

For those who didn't get to the river this time, Twickenham Yacht Club will be hosting its annual Open Day Sunday 18 June from 11am to 4pm as part of Twickenham Festival 2017.

Come down and meet the members. Dinghy sailing will be on offer again, as well as motor cruises around Eel Pie Island. Light refreshments will be provided in scenic surroundings overlooking the river.

For more information and location go to our website http://www.twickenhamyc.org

Article supplied by Steve Williams