Bewl Water

August Bank Holiday Sailing at Bewl Water

The sun was shining on us as we arrived at the reservoir (a significantly reduced stretch of water) with a sizeable contingent from Aquarius (14) and a respectable fleet of dinghies (8) – 4 Signets, 1 Enterprise, a Bosun, the Comet and a club Laser.

Compared to my last visit, May 2010, my first observation was the length of the slipway into the water which, owing to the low water level was a considerable distance from the road. The weather was markedly better this year, with consistent but not overwhelming wind conditions and a little sun from time-to-time to warm our backs.

There were very few Bewl boats on the water, but with the usual generous, warm welcome from their staff and OOD, we headed out to the farthest reaches of the water on an effortless run most of the way, and long tacks back.

Such was the drastic effect on the water level that even some of our most experienced members were caught out by the shallowness of the water, catching the centre-board and almost running aground! The wind conditions were such that it was reported that one of our Signet helms got his shorts wet while leaning out!

After a leisurely start and lunch for some, most had a good few hours on the water, with time for some 1:1 coaching for me. The stalwart supporters settled themselves into the members lounge area and kept the seats warm for those on the water.

Richard and John P squeezed in a quick boat-swap in gentle winds at 5pm, before packing up to face the Bank Holiday traffic on the A21.

My personal thanks go to Frank (and Bryan) for packing up and towing my little Comet down to the lake, those who ‘stuck with me’ out on the wild water, and Richard for the 1:1!

For the future, we had several crew and car slots available for anyone who wants a ‘free ride’ for the next Bank Holiday – if you’ve never been, it’s really worth a try!

Trudi Hilton