Derwent Reservoir Sailing Club Launches Crowdfunding Campaign to Support Sailability Developments
by Derwent Reservoir Sailing Club 29 Sep 2025 16:16 BST
Derwent Reservoir Sailing Club © Derwent Reservoir Sailing Club
Derwent Reservoir Sailing Club (DRSC), based on the shore of the stunning Derwent Reservoir on the border of Northumberland and County Durham, has launched a crowdfunding campaign to expand its Sailability programme.
The club is fundraising to purchase a refurbished RS Venture Connect dinghy and hoist system. This specialist boat will enable people with disabilities, as well as those who want a more stable platform to build their skills, to enjoy the freedom and excitement of sailing.
Expanding Access to the Water
DRSC sits in a beautiful location at the edge of the Pennines, where members and visitors can enjoy a wide range of water sports including sailing, windsurfing, paddle boarding, kayaking, open water swimming, and even kite foiling when the wind is up. The club is now committed to increasing accessibility so that people of all ages and abilities can experience the joy of being on the water.
Sailability is about breaking down barriers and making sailing open to everyone. The RS Venture Connect is a versatile and adaptable boat that makes it possible for people with additional needs to sail independently or with support, ensuring that disability is never a barrier to participation.
Inspiring Role Models
Derwent Reservoir Sailing Club is proud of its track record in supporting sailors who go on to achieve at the highest levels. Notably, Adam Bilaney and Jazz Turner, both gold medallists at the 2025 RS Venture Connect European Championships, are closely connected with the club and actively support its Sailability ambitions.
Jazz Turner, renowned for her circumnavigation of the British Isles, and Adam continue to inspire sailors at all levels, showing what can be achieved with passion, skill, and the right opportunities.
A Strong Start - Community Support
The fundraising campaign has already received a boost thanks to a generous £1,000 donation from Consett Rotary Club, providing a strong foundation for the project. The club is now calling on the wider community, local organisations, and supporters of inclusive sport to contribute and help bring this exciting development to life.
How to Help
Every contribution will bring DRSC closer to making sailing accessible to all. Donations can be made via the club's JustGiving page justgiving.com/crowdfunding/derwentreservoir-sailingclub