We need to clear the clubhouse of furniture in order to get the floor re-sealed so if anyone can lend a hand on Sunday 5th at approx 10am it would be greatly appreciated.
If we have sufficient volunteers we would also like to antifoul the “Flames” in preparation of getting back to sailing (so if that appeals to anyone bring suitable clothing).
Many thanks.
In light of the government’s announcement yesterday with respect to the easing of social distancing rules from 4th July, we are very much hoping and looking forward to getting back to some organised sailing at the BSC soon. We are presently reviewing guidance from the RYA and further information will be provided.
BSC Flag Officers and Committee.
It is with sadness that I share the news that Brian Prew passed away on 2nd June. He started sailing Stellas in Burnham owning Four Bells with friends. He then raced a Contessa 32, Jemima C. Next, he bought his first Beta of Burnham, a Sigma 36, racing both on the river and off shore with EAORA. In later years he and Jo Barker cruised extensively in Holland in his final Beta. Past Commodore of the Crouch Yacht Club and member of Probus, he will be greatly missed.
For those members using the pontoon, I am pleased to advise that the toilet and changing room facilities are once again available for use. However, I would like to remind everyone of the need to maintain social distancing (one person/family at a time), ensure they are left clean after use and to respect other users.
Tom Sadler, Vice Commodore
It is with great sadness that we acknowledge the passing of Bob Eveleigh. Bob, a highly respected Thames Pilot, was a member of the BSC for many years together with his wife Joy and children James and Abbie. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family and friends.
We recognise that so far this year, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, we have been unable to offer members full value-for-money from their BSC membership. So far, we have not been able to hold any racing, Friday sailing, coaching or socials – all have been sorely missed. However, the clubhouse and facilities are still there, members remain members, we still need to pay overheads (albeit they are kept to a minimum) and maintain the facilities. Fortunately, we have sufficient reserves to do so.
We are not presently in a position to determine how compromised 2020 will be with respect to BSC activities but the Committee has decided that once we do know the extent of the season’s compromise, and after taking into consideration ongoing overheads and maintenance, 2020 members will be offered a discount to their 2021 subscriptions.
We do hope to hold some racing this year but at present we don’t know when. So, with respect to any Race Fees paid but not “used” for 2020, these can be carried over to 2021. However, for those who would prefer your race fees not to be carried forward and would like a refund, please contact treasurer@burnhamsc.co.uk with your bank details so that payment can be made. Note this only applies to Race Fees and not Dinghy Park fees (the dinghy park is still in use).
Stay safe, stay well,
BSC Flag Officers and Committee
Unfortunately we have not been able to implement necessary arrangements for the cleaning of the toilet and changing room facilities at the BSC. Therefore, I regret to advise that they will remain closed until such arrangements can be implemented.
Tom Sadler, Vice Commodore
Dear BSC Members,
We are pleased to advise that the BSC pontoon will be accessible for club members to use for leisure sailing, kayaking, paddle boarding and windsurfing from 9am Saturday 16th May 2020.
However, COVID 19 continues to pose a serious threat to us all so the government guidelines regarding social distancing must be observed at all times.
In accordance with guidelines issued the BSC RIBS and coaching/safety boats WILL NOT be available. The BSC WILL NOT be providing safety cover. It is the responsibility of individuals/parents/guardians to ensure that any on-the-water activity undertaken is conducted safely and that an individual’s experience and competence is sufficient for the prevailing weather and tidal conditions.
Please remember the RNLI do not have the privilege of being able to social distance if they are called out so we need to be extra careful.
The toilets will be accessible via the side gate alongside the decking. I would ask that you refrain from using them to change in for the timebeing.
It is impractical for the club to provide sanitisers, wipes etc and the safest way is to take your own.
When using the pontoon please be considerate and understanding of your fellow members. Communicate between yourselves to avoid overcrowding and any misunderstanding. This is particularly important for parents wishing to stay on the pontoon looking out for their children. If you can, work together to ease this problem if social distancing becomes an issue. Please consider that this could also cause a problem for others to launch in certain tides.
Please don’t stack trollies on the pontoon. If there’s no room take it back to the dinghy park.
Obviously, no picnicking or sunbathing.
The pontoon gates will be opened by coded padlock and the code will be provided to key members of your groups. However, please keep the gates closed when the pontoon is in use in order to deter the general public. If you are leaving the pontoon unattended please lock the gates. Also, please ensure that the gates to the compound remain closed at all times for security purposes.
This a learning curve for us all and I thank you for your cooperation and understanding during this time. If you have any problems please email me and I will try to resolve them.
Finally, if you are last out, please lock up.
BE SENSIBLE, BE SAFE, ENJOY. Please don’t mess it up.
As always, buoyancy aids must be worn at all times whilst on the pontoon.
Kind regards
Tom Sadler (BSC VC)
It is with regret that I inform you that Honorary Member Ruby Fisher passed away on Tuesday 12th May aged 95. Many will remember her from her days in the club sailing a 14 footer Astral, with Harry, her brother and from around Burnham. She was very proactive in the Club through the 70s. In her latter years she could be seen sitting on one of the river front seats, watching the sailing and reading. Our thoughts are with her family at this time.
Owing to current restrictions, her funeral will be family only, but we will pass on any further information as the family are hoping to have a memorial service when circumstances allow.
Keen to get back on the water but did not renew.
1. Fill in form (on website) return by email
2. Pay by BACS (cheques not convenient at this time)
make sure you put your name as Reference.
3. Dinghies – many unpaid in the dinghy park.
Pontoon access depends on you being fully paid up members.
Liz Tolhurst
BSC Membership Secretary
membership@burnhamsc.co.uk