Commodore's Message

Published 18:58 on 30 Mar 2020

Dear members,

On Thursday the General Committee held its first video meeting and I would like to update you all regarding the following decisions.

Our Commitment to Helping Members

With immediate effect and in line with recent Government statements, the Environmental Agency's request to minimise unnecessary river usage and the RYA's latest advice the club will be closed and all planned activities will cease until further notice. The General Committee therefore no longer supports any informal sailing/boating activities, use of the club for boat or other maintenance purposes, and gatherings at the club for any purpose. The changing rooms will be locked and no longer available to use, the gates on Upper Thames Way will be kept locked at all times.

The only permitted exception to this is for members who collect the take-away food that is being provided by Kathryn. Please ensure social distancing if you arrive at the same time as another member whilst making your collection and ensure the gates are locked as you leave the premises.

The Committee are liaising with Kathryn and Darren to provide support to them during this difficult time.

It was decided that endeavouring to distribute the Blue Book would contravene the self-isolation and staying at home principles currently in force and may be distributed at a later date. The Blue Book is available in the Members' Area of our website.

Fun News

The Committee recently applied for and were successful in obtaining a special pass for the Virtual Regatta Inshore Sailing App through the RYA. It will allow up to 20 members to race against each other at any one time. Richard Pausey is the lead for this opportunity and once he has been able to set this up properly he will message you all to see who would like to take part. In the first instance, download the Virtual Regatta Inshore app on a smart phone or iPad, create an account and complete the sail training. Further instructions will follow.

The General Committee are seeking ways to keep you all entertained through these strange and challenging times. If you have any ideas that would bring the members together in a fun way over the internet please let us know.

Kind Regards

Nick Smith-James

Commodore

Last updated 23:01 on 16 February 2024