A STRONG and gusty south west wind greeted members of the Arden club at Defford for the last race in the Spring Handicap Series.

Race officer Keith Stevens set a testing course in the trying conditions but everyone made a good start until conditions took over with Val Jolly in her Topper being the first to retire.

Keith Hodges, sailing his self-built Highlander 12, joined the racing for the first time. How-ever, using only a temporary sail he was unable to complete the course.

Having established an apparently insurmountable lead, much to their disgust, Niall Campbell and crew Jane Smee also had to retire their Enter-prise early after virtually des-troying their mainsail on an over hanging pontoon support.

This left Dave Bryden to take the lead and win the race with Campbell and Smee claiming the honours as overall Spring Handicap winners.

The club is opening its doors on Sunday, April 9 for one of its popular Try Sailing Days when all are welcome.

For further information on this friendly family club contact Ray on 01386 554109 or Helen on 01905 23298.