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Southwold Sailing Club: Fundraising Efforts for a New Dinghy Launching Slip

Southwold Sailing Club (SSC) is marking its 75th anniversary this year, but it faces a crucial challenge: raising £80,000 to secure its future. This vital community resource is in need of funds to replace the dinghy launching slip on the River Blyth. A new and reinforced structure is essential for ensuring safe sailing on this beautiful tidal inlet for many more years to come.

This inclusive and family-friendly sailing club is uniquely positioned, providing opportunities for both cruising and dinghy sailing, whether upriver or out to sea. For over seven decades, SSC has been central to the local sailing community and has offered mentored access to the water for individuals of all abilities, experiences, and boat ownership statuses. Unfortunately, the club’s future is at stake.

Founded in an old net-pickling shed in 1949, SSC saw dedicated volunteers construct the current slipway in the early 1980s—an essential facility that has contributed significantly to the club’s success. However, the existing slipway has become unstable. The concrete is eroded with dangerous cracks, and while damaged sections have been removed, launching dinghies is now only feasible at high tide. The club must raise funds for a new slipway, which will require costly specialist equipment and expertise to properly construct.

Commodore Henry Walker emphasizes, “A new slip will help to secure this important asset for the next 75 years and enable people of all ages to delve into this exhilarating activity. Sailing enhances the physical and mental well-being of all those involved, and SSC aims to utilize its training boats and qualified instructors to encourage new members to join this vibrant community while developing their skills and confidence.”

The club offers an active sailing program, including racing, cruising, taster days, social events, and regattas, as well as hosting other East Coast sailing clubs. The sailing season runs from April to October, and SSC is launching its crowdfunding campaign to ensure that future generations can continue to enjoy its offerings.

To support this important campaign, please visit www.crowdfunder.co.uk/p/saveourslip. Together, we can help secure the future of Southwold Sailing Club for many years to come.

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