The eagerly awaited awards ceremony took place at the RYA Volvo Dinghy Show at Alexandra Palace on 5th March 2011. From a total of 34 national entries, South Staffordshire Sailing Club were picked as the overall winners from amongst the five finalists, which included the Sailing and Cruising Association, Glossop Sailing Club, Hollowell Sailing Club and Spinnaker Club.

The shortlisted sailing clubs were selected by an awards panel who judged them on the range of quality and safe activities they provide, how they encourage people to get out on the water and how well they engage with the local community.

Of particular interest to the judging panel was the virtual concept of the Sailing and Cruising Association. With no fixed club house, the organisation is still able to reach out to its members, both domestically and overseas and, with an extensive annual activities programme, the organisation brings like-minded sailors together in a professionally run, friendly and fun club. Not only does the club offer excellent opportunities for its members but it has also developed strong links with and supports its local communities as well as works closely with sister clubs based overseas.
Club Commodore, Reggie Blennerhassett, said: "We are delighted to accept this Finalist award, which recognises the hard work of all the club members throughout each year, but also the fun and professionalism with which the club is run".

Pictured left to right - Jack Bovill (club founder), Alison Aird (Rear Commodore Dinghy, Reggie Blennerhassett (Commodore), Ian Woods, Andrew Gould.

Read the article from the Pink Paper.

View the RYA video of the event.