Page 16 - Jigsaw Sept 2021

LOCAL GROUP
A LOCAL GEM
Come sailing with us...
Middle Nene Sailing Club (MNSC) has been around now for almost 75 years and what was originally two gravel pits has, over the years, turned into a real asset for Thrapston. Not only is the lake, 140 acres of open water, a formidable site for sailors and surfers; it is equally loved by the angling
members of the club. The lake is also the base for the local Sea Cadets and its rich wildlife make it a cherished area for walkers and bird spotters alike.
Entirely run by volunteers, MNSC organises club racing
in single and double handed sailing dinghies and keelboats.
In more ‘normal’ times Open Meetings are held for certain types of boat, these are attended by sailors from across the country.
In conjunction with the Wildlife Trust and Nature England the club recently embarked
on a major project to repair the permissive footpath around the top of the lake and improve the wildlife habitat. This gives better shelter to ground nesting birds, protecting them from being disturbed by casual walkers and their pets. The project took the best part of spring and
summer of 2021, but in autumn the area can be enjoyed once again by the local community. To avoid future deterioration, the path will be closed at times of heavy rain/flooding and for
a couple of winter months, but this will be announced in good time.
New members are always welcome at MNSC. Novices can attend RYA approved courses and experienced sailors will find a highly competitive fleet with excellent racing. Main boat classes are Solo, RS200, Enterprise, Wayfarer, Flying 15 and Illusion. Other boats are accepted in the Menagerie Fleet.
For details visit www.middlenenesc.co.uk or the club’s page on Facebook.
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