Marconi Sailing Club Open Day
by Chris Kirby 19 May 2014 07:51 BST
17 May 2014
Following a weekend of splendid weather, Marconi Sailing Club are toasting the success of their Open Day which was held on Saturday 17th May where their doors were opened to the residents of Essex to offer them the chance to take to the water in a choice of craft.
Starting at midday, over 75 guests were welcomed by the club's Commodore and her husband Michaela and Andrew Dowley. After visitors had registered, they were given the opportunity to explore the club's site next to the River Blackwater. Club member Jenny Ball was in charge or orchestrating the on-the-water activities. Those who attended were able to take to the river in a number of different boats ranging from small dinghies, to catamarans and even a Catamaran Cruiser. For many it was their first time on the water, but judging by the smiles and positive comments upon their return, will unlikely be their last.
Off the water, Rear Commodore Graham Cross oversaw proceedings for those either waiting to take to the water or just wanting to enjoy the weather and beautiful views of the River Blackwater. Children were kept entertained by a bouncy castle and a craft tent where they had the opportunity to design and paint nautical themed tiles and construct their own clay boats. The adults appeared to gravitate more towards the Pimms tent which was doing a great trade throughout the day,
To help round off a successful day, a barbecue was held in the evening to thank those who visited and to congratulate club members who had helped organise the day. The bar was kept busy in to the night as local band The Freighthoppers kept drinkers entertained with their acoustic and string music, even allowing spectators to get involved with a number of percussion instruments that were dotted around the bar.
Overall, Marconi counts the day as a huge success with over 10 members joining during their visit. Speaking about the day, Commodore Michaela Dowley has said "I'm immensely proud of how we put the Club on show and I think visitors and Club members alike had a really great day."