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.....)