The first of what is hoped will become many East Coast 50 fund raising event was a roaring success with Little Ship Club East Coast members picking up the majority of the top awards. East Coast 50 is organised to benefit the ‘Woolverstone Project’ and the ‘East Anglian Sailing Trust’ providing sailing for people with all kinds of disabilities.

This inaugural event was a great success and as a result of our attendance and raising the most sponsorship money, the clubs profile was raised supporting what is a very worthwhile cause.

Four boats attended: Livia, Demeter, Greenwitch and Wight Wizard. The weather was sensational although winds were a little light meaning the ‘iron topsail’ was forced in to play, fortunately allowable by the rules of the ‘Cruiser Challenge’.

A selection of buoys had to be found and photographed over a course of 50 miles with points being awarded for each one. Note: this is a great way to keep a 6 year old entertained on board ship!

Safe Arrival Drinks (SAD’s) were held aboard Demeter courtesy of Mike and Pat Dittner who provided copious jugs of delicious Pimms and nibbles. The organisers of the event provided a superb BBQ, accompanied by live music in the newly opened function room opposite the famous LV87 former Cromer Lightship, clubhouse of Haven Ports Yacht Club.

We did exceptionally well in the prize giving, not only winning sailing awards but cleaning up on most of the raffle prizes too. Awards included:

• Most sponsorship money raised – Pat and Mike Dittner (on behalf of the Little Ship Club)

• Winner of the Cruiser Challenge over 30 feet class –Demeter

• Winner of the Cruiser Challenge under 30 feet class – Greenwitch

• Special award for youngest entrant – Ethan Hughes (aged 6) aboard Livia

Additional Awards:

• Best Boogie - Sue Cossell for covering the most circumnavigations of a handbag ever seen on the East Coast

• Best Tidier Upper – Ethan Hughes for clearing the most tables and filling the most bin bags

Sue Cossell led the charge to the dance floor (dragging Richard Keen along with her at an alarming rate of knots) where we all danced the night away to live music.

The next day morning coffee and chocolate cake was enjoyed aboard Livia before boats set off back for their home ports. Mike Dittner also enjoyed an extra round of paracetamol with his coffee, claiming the music had been too loud and had given him an extended headache.

Further events will follow throughout the summer, for more information see East Coast 50

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