We were visited by over 80 paddlers from the East of England Paddlesport (EOEPS) club today. The arrivals were scheduled for 8:30 but eager paddlers started appearing at 7:30. Eventually there were paddlers carrying paddle boards down Mill Lane from the car park as space at the club is limited, despite local businesses and homeowners kindly offering extra space to us.

After getting ready and a safety briefing, the paddlers launched and began the journey to Kirby Creek, watched over by volunteers from the club; Commodore Peter Compton accompanied by Charlie Inskip taking photographs, Chris Bridgewater in grey rib and Chip in his boat. Rachel and I (Barry), led the way in our Hobie Tandem Island, the bright yellow mast proving to be a useful waymark for those further back.

Once we rounded the bend and made for The Wade, a bit of a headwind slowed progress and we had a pause to wait for the paddlers further back. Once our break was over, we ventured across The Wade and the paddlers were rewarded by a reasonable turn out from our seal population. You could actually hear when a seal was sighted by the excitement of the paddlers. As someone who sees the seals every week, it reminded me how very lucky we are here and really should try and show everyone what our area has to offer.

Drone video and photos by Barry

With the wind at our backs we made our way across The Wade and back to the club, then boards were deflated but the paddlers were not. To celebrate passing 15000 members and an upcoming book launch, the admin team of the EOEPS club popped the corks and let fly some bubbly. Not to worry, it was Nozeco and no alcohol was wasted. Then it was time for burgers (thank you Cecelia, Caroline and Sally) and drinks.

We had such lovely feedback from everyone there, with interest from some in joining the club but also many wanting another event here soon. Thank you to our guests, to the EOEPS admin team with special mention to co-organiser Jess. Happy birthday to Andy from the EOEPS admin team who was recovering from his surprise 60th birthday party. Thank you to our boat crews and helpers and anyone who has lent a hand or given some advice, encouragement or well wishes. And thank you Geoff for the outside bar you kindly loaned us ahead of dinghy week plus everyone involved in setting that up.

Below Photos by Charlie Inskip (@seaeyeci)