Yacht crew in finals for club of the year

The club, in Brighton Road, Shoreham, is one of five in the running for the award, which recognises those who excel at promoting the sport, encouraging people on to the water and making their activities varied and accessible.

The winner will be announced on Saturday, at the RYA Suzuki Dinghy Show at Alexandra Palace.

Commodore Dave Ramus said: “We love dinghies and we love cruisers and the crossover between the fleets is substantial, with the dinghy section helping the cruisers and vice versa.

“None of this would be possible without our army of dedicated volunteers, who enable us to run such a hugely diverse and interesting programme of activities that people want.”

Founded in 1892, Sussex YC is one of the oldest sailing clubs in the country, as well as being one of the most forward-thinking.

Although it is called a yacht club, it is as much about dinghies as keelboats, and says it is all the richer for it.

It aims to share its passion for all the different types of sailing by making it as easy as possible for people from the area to join in.

Mr Ramus said: “It’s an unmistakable moment when a novice sailor, overwhelmed by the movement and noise from being afloat, suddenly gets it.

“The nervous smile widens, shoulders relax, and eyes brighten as they gaze at the sails in wonder. That moment is something to treasure for every sailor and instructor.”

The New Active Member Scheme, which costs £7.80 per month, has helped bring membership to more than 1,200.