The club's primary purpose is to provide opportunities for sailing to all its members. Over the last few years the interest has certainly increased with the next season boding well.

          The other thriving aspect of the club is its social scene. The club strives to provide a variety of events. The culinary scene, for example, is well known, with members experiencing a wide range of well prepared food. Music also features in the club's social calendar, with local bands enjoying the opportunities to play to an appreciative audience.

          Indeed, local blues artists will be descending on the club on Wednesday February 16th for a 'jam' session. This is an evening for fans of the blues, so why not come down and enjoy local artists demonstrating their musical skills - all are welcome.

          Whilst on the music scene, may I remind members and friends that the talented Greenhill Jazz Band will be performing at the club on Saturday March 5th - not be missed!

          The practice session went very well, with Rolly Squibbs on good form. Let us hope the team can emulate Rolly's performance this evening when we are away to the Ex-Servicemen's Club. Captain Terry Evans is quietly hopeful of a fourth win - participating members please note.

          This was a very interesting and informative evening. Andrew Hodgson, of H.M. Coastguard, introduced the speakers for the evening.

          First off was John Edwards, of the same organisation, who gave a detailed talk on the advantages of the new DSC system of communication which will greatly enhance safety at sea. The large turnout certainly found the session most enlightening, with John answering several pertinent and challenging questions with consummate professionalism.

          Next up was Nicola Pearson, regional safety officer of the R.N.L.I. Her brief was a simple one. Safety at sea and maintenance of safety equipment. It doesn't do any harm to state the apparent 'obvious' on occasions. Nicola pulled no punches in a slick, enthusiastic delivery, on points of safety. Members and friends were made to think about attitudes and complacency and she stressed the need for regular checking of equipment essential to safety at sea.

          Commodore Mike Stace thanked the speakers for giving of their time and echoed the sentiments of all present that the evening had been most thought-provoking and instructive.

          This annual culinary experience takes place on Saturday, February 12th. Mike Stace and Deanna Morton are again in the hot seat. If last year's evening is anything to go by, we are in for a treat - numbers are limited, so please let Mike and Deanna know as soon as possible if you intend to participate.

          Mike has hinted on the menu, which sounds mouth-watering - don't miss out, book now! You can contact Mike or Deanna on 844484.

          On the evening of Friday, February 25th, the club is delighted to host Greenhill School's quiz in aid of the Tsunami Appeal. This is a most worthy cause which deserves your support. We look forward to quizzing you.

• Saturday, February 26th - Terry Evans' great steak evening.
  
  
• Saturday, March 19th - An Italian evening.
  
  

          Other activities are in the pipeline, which will include, for example, a quiz with a particular theme and a games evening - watch this space!

          It's that time of year again. Annual subscriptions are now due. Please contact membership secretary, Julia Dashfield, on 844918, for further details. You can find a Membership Subscription Form elsewhere in these pages.

          This is a very friendly and welcoming club which endeavours to involve all members in a variety of activities. If you would like to participate by joining, then now is an ideal time. Contact any members, who will be delighted to furnish you with further details. We look forward to meeting you.

          GP14