The Royal Windermere Yacht Club has now reopened

THE ROYAL Windermere Yacht Club has now re-opened and ready to set sail again under socially distanced regulations. The popular attraction has been closed during lockdown but is now able to resume business whilst ensuring the safety of the public. Commodore Amanda Wilson said: “Despite the months of lockdown and then the poor weather in July, we have a good programme of sailing now underway for the Flying Fifteen and Dinghy fleets. “We are keen to encourage both experienced sailors and newcomers to the lake, offering both adult and youth training – again, with great care taken to comply with socially-distanced regulations. “We have liaised extensively with the RYA (Royal Yachting Association – the national body for all forms of sailing and sail racing) and gone further than the very high standards they have recommended to ensure we do everything possible to protect our members and guests. “Both our Friday and Saturday Youth Sailing Clubs are now back in full swing, with the addition of Paddleboards and Canoes to give people more variety and new opportunities on the lake. “We have summer activity days running throughout August which are proving very popular and are booking fast!” Amanda is the current Commodore of the Royal Windermere Yacht Club and only the third female to have held this position. She is to remain Commodore for another year owing to the unprecedented circumstances brought about by Covid-19. The club will also be welcoming regular visitors such as secretary of the Hollowell Sailing Club, and keen sailor James Avery. Amanda said: “We offer temporary memberships and sailing opportunities to enthusiasts such as James who, with his wife and family, has recently enjoyed a well-earned break in Windermere after months of working on the front line in the NHS in London. “All of James’ family members are sailing enthusiasts, with son Henry a keen Laser sailor and assistant instructor.” As part of the club’s revised 2020 programme, a free event is being planned to recognise the contributions of NHS staff and key workers throughout South Lakeland. The club is excited to reopen and continue with sailing and training with the public. Covid saw the club, and many other sailing and water sport clubs shut down for nearly four months, however as restrictions are being lifted establishments like Royal Windermere Yacht Club is now able to return to the waters once more.