Winter Projects

Although some sailing may be possible over the next few months it is time to look at some improvements that could be made for the next season.

Top of the list is a spray hood but that will have to be made for me.

Next is a folding seat (Richard Goldsmith proudly demonstrates his at any opportunity and it is very comfortable).

At a more basic and DIY level I want to make a grating or similar for the floor of the cockpit and a similar fitting for the area over the fuel tank. This would mean the rear seating area would be level and much more useful than it is now.

Another woodwork project would be to make up a seat/table that would fit over the engine cover. The slope on this is quite annoying and a surface that was strong enough to stand on but with cut outs for pens, cups, beer cans etc. would be much more useful.

So a busy winter ahead - but need to get down to the boat with a tape measure first before I can get started.

Meanwhile - to remind me of the summer

Is winter here?

Afraid so. Went down to Chichester on Friday to attend a Drascombe end of season dinner organised by Richard Goldsmith which was well attended. Strange to see people in a different environment, without sailing clothes and life jackets on . The ladies had skirts on and some of the men even had a collar and tie - very formal for Drascombers.

I spent the night on Daislebee,which meant I could have a few beers - whether this contributed to the feeling of warm well being I don't know, but my fears about shivering away in the cabin where quite unfounded. I had a very comfortable night and enjoyed the shower facilities at the marina before adjourning to Tesco for breakfast.

There was no wind, it was grey and overcast and England had promised to storm the Samoans later that afternoon so plans to go sailing were cancelled and I cleared the boat out of cushions, food and electrical kit and set off for home by about lunchtime. (Getting home early also earned me some bonus brownie points.....)