Burnham Sailing Club Re-opening Party
by Karen Harden 22 Jun 2010 08:56 BST
19 June 2010
Burnham Sailing Club re-opening party after last year's devasting fire © Karen Harden
On Saturday 19th June, the Burnham Sailing Club celebrated its reopening after last year’s devastating fire which ripped through the club house. The fire which was caused by an electrical fault in a fridge in May 2009, destroyed one end of the building and made the remainder of the building totally unusable because of the smoke damage. After lengthy negotiations with insurers and fund raising by club members, the repair works, carried out by local Chelmsford contractors BVB Property Services, finally commenced in January of this year. The job was completed ahead of schedule and within budget.
In his opening speech, Commodore John Hardy said, “We are extremely pleased with the outcome of the refurbishment works.” He went onto thank a number of people who were instrumental in the success of this project. The clubhouse was then officially opened by President John Mellard and blessed by Cannon Lionel Webber, former Chaplain to the Queen. The blustery showers couldn’t spoil the enjoyment for the crowd of over 200 club members, sailors and invited guests, including local MP John Whittingdale and Commodores of other local sailing clubs.
A magnificent banquet lunch followed by a scrumptious afternoon tea and cakes was ably prepared and served by club members following the formal speeches.
The celebrations continued throughout the day with over 100 sailors taking part in sailing, crabbing and other water borne activities. The strong gusty winds made for good competition for the more experienced sailors. Winners of the classes were Ben Harden [Fast Handicap], Harry Hinkins [Slow Handicap], and Kathryn Hutton Penman [Optimists].
Many visitors gave generously to the charities supported by the Stuart Paul Memorial Fund. Stuart Paul was a young member of the club who sadly passed away at the age of 17 following a long illness. His friends have raised funds, at this time, every year in honour and celebration of his life.