Mayor Launches Sailability’s ‘Wonderful’ New Boat at Papercourt Lake, Ripley

Published on: 17 Jun, 2018
Updated on: 17 Jun, 2018

A new boat for disabled people has been launched at Papercourt Lake near Ripley.

The new addition to the Sailability fleet, Wheels On Water.

Named Wheels on Water, the boat is part of the Sailabilty fleet and gives access to those who might otherwise be unable to enjoy sailing or learn to drive a powered boat in a safe environment. Fully trained volunteers, with all the right equipment, will accompany them.

The Mayor of Guildford, Mike Parsons, officiated at the launch on Friday afternoon (June 15), along with Saliability’s volunteers, members and guests.

Cllr Parsons, who is known for supporting those involved in charity work, said: “It’s a wonderful opportunity that we give to the disabled people of Surrey and further afield. And the boat that we launched today is wonderful.

“I think the Sailability that happens throughout the entire UK gives a wonderful opportunity for those less able than ourselves to get out and enjoy the environment, enjoy the water, and do things that they can actually do, without fear and favour.”

Papercourt Lake.

Sailing instructor John Beynon said: “The boats we use are purpose built so that they can be sailed by a person with limited movements and the boats are weighted to prevent capsizing.

“The [Papercourt] lakes are not well known but are in truth the jewel in the crown for this area and fishermen are always hoping to catch one of the 42lb carp said to inhabit these waters.”

The mayor takes a photo of cake created for the occasion by Frances N Aldett.

After the launch and a trip round the lake, in the new boat, the mayor was invited to cut the cake and chat with all those present over light refreshments.

The cake!

Responses to Mayor Launches Sailability’s ‘Wonderful’ New Boat at Papercourt Lake, Ripley

Norma Miller Reply

June 19, 2018 at 4:52 pm

It was great to see such support for this official launch of our new boat Wheels on Water to enable a much easier transition from land to water for our less able sailors.

Sailability at Papercourt is part of a RYA (Royal Yachting Association) nationwide scheme which offers people of all abilities the opportunity to enjoy the fun and freedom of sailing.

We generally operate on the first, third and fifth Friday of each month during the summer sailing season, with a strong team of volunteers.

Full details can be found at https://www.papercourt-sc.org.uk/sailability

Also, Papercourt SC has just been recognised by the RYA as one of first top British youth sailing clubs in the country recognising excellence in promoting grass roots sailing and developing the sport’s stars of tomorrow.

Well done to all the volunteers who keep Papercourt Sailing Club so successful.