Sailing Club Spotlight Berwick Sailing Club

A MECHANIC who saved Berwick Sailing Club £4,000 by repairing its safety boat has made the semi-final of a national competition to find Britain’s top maritime hero. Eyemouth’s John Wood has made the semi-finals after being nominated by Alistair McDonald, commodore at Berwick Sailing Club. The new annual awards scheme was launched in June by Old Pulteney Single Malt Scotch Whisky to reward the outstanding passion, commitment and achievements demonstrated within Britain’s maritime communities. After coming to the club’s 
rescue by carrying out essential repairs, John certainly fitted the bill. During a regatta in May, the club’s safety boat was damaged when it capsized in rough waters. The boat’s engine was in a sorry state and looked a write-off until John stepped in and worked day and night to save the club a bill in excess of £4,000 to replace it. “What John did was a big thing for the club.” Alistair commented. “It’s essential we have a boat to serve our safety needs and John worked solidly for a week to make sure we did.” A former Royal Navy engineer, John has also devoted a lot of time to the club since his two sons have joined up, going along to training sessions, helping at regattas and providing transport to events further afield. But despite his keen interest in the club, John has no desire to take to the water himself. Rather than go sailing, he prefers to watch his sons, aged 12 and 16, in action.