The Westerly Owners' Association - East Coast and Thames Estuary

Joint meet with Sadler/Starlight Association

15 Westerlys and 4 Sadlers arrived on the harbour pontoon with the tide after [for some] thick fog with 1 cable visibility for the first 15 nm from the Harwich area. Only one absentee may be a record.

David and Caroline Hunter who keep a Sadler in the harbour very kindly hosted a barbecue in their garden for some 35 people after which David took those still able to walk on a tour around the historic Cinque Port. This proved of huge interest even to those who thought they knew the area. Fortunately the afternoon was hot and sunny – a first for an East Coast rally this year.

After a quiet zizz most then congregated on the pontoon by Marika for a very convivial drinks party which lasted until dusk.

Sunday morning dawned bright and clear with a freshening North Easterly and most had left by mid day. Those going NE up the Wallet had a struggle until Walton but then a glorious sail home.

Although John Whitehead, the Sadler organiser, was disappointed with his turnout there is a move to get together again next year – perhaps at Brugge or Graveline.