Support from CCF for TSWC for Club of the year

Published 12:25 on 19 Dec 2021

The following recently appeared in orders sent out to all Combined Cadet Force units and staff and CFAVs throughout the country.

New Regional CCF Afloat Training Base

34. Teesdale Sailing & Watersports Club has been nominated as a finalist in the RYA/Yachts & Yachting Club of the Year 2022 Awards. Although not a big club and tucked away high in the hills of County Durham, a number of CCF staff and volunteers will perhaps have sailed there over the years. The Club's association with the CCF goes back to 1983 when it was located on a different reservoir and known as Selset Sailing Club. Durham School joined and made it the base for their small fleet of one ASC, one Bosun and a Mirror. The school was made most welcome and the Club proved accommodating hosts.

35. The link between Club and CCF survived a move to a new reservoir and a change of name to Teesdale SWC. The 1990s saw the growth of the annual Durham/Sedbergh sailing match into a full-scale North East Area Regatta, with out of area visitors from Worksop and Woodbridge amongst others arriving and enjoying the camping and 'Dark Skies' in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

36. This year has seen the latest stage in the development of the Club's relationship with the CCF. Following a visit by HQ staff and some hard work from CPO Iain "Smudge" Smith (Area Instructor), it has been decided to base a dinghy fleet of six Picos and two Argos with Safety Boats at the Club for use by schools. Teesdale is an active RYA recognised training centre, and despite its small size has six CFAV dinghy instructors as members. Any visiting school can be assured of a warm welcome. Recent building works mean that there will be more level tent pitches available for overnight stays. The Pennine Way crosses the western end of Grassholme Reservoir and links to a host of walking opportunities. Local adventure company Wilderness Outdoor Education also operate through the club and can provide a number of non-sailing activities. All of these things combined with the friendly atmosphere at the club make Teesdale an excellent base for a Field Day or longer.

37. Teesdale SWC would be most appreciative for any support that CCF staff and CFAVs can provide in their bid to become the Club of the Year 2022. You can find out more about the club and vote for them at https://awards.yachtsandyachting.co.uk/rya/

Just in case you are wondering a CFAV is Navy shorthand for 'cadet forces adult volunteer'.

Last updated 14:29 on 19 April 2024