New Isle of Wight sailability boat will help more disabled people learn to sail

COWES Sailability Club has launched its new boat — which will help more people with disabilities learn to sail. The new Drascombe Longboat was named Lily at an official ceremony at the Cowes Corinthian Yacht Club last Saturday, by Isle of Wight Hight Sheriff Geoff Underwood. It was bought with funding from the National Lottery Community Fund and Little Britain Challenge Cup, among others, and will enable the club to offer more sailing opportunities for people with disabilities. The club’s fundraising officer, Trish Rooke, said: “We are so excited to receive our new boat, as it really will have a positive impact on the lives of many Island residents who have physical disabilities, learning difficulties or debilitating medical conditions. “This summer, we will have capacity to take more people out onto the water so they can enjoy exciting experiences, learn new skills and have fun.” The new boat is the club’s second Drascombe Longboat, which is ideal for people with limited mobility or poor sight because of its large cockpit and no boom to bump heads on. Director of the Little Britain Challenge Cup, Tony Poole said: “We are delighted to play our small part in this very worthwhile charity.”