Nancy Blackett’s proposed relaunch on 2nd June has been postponed, following a test dip in the launch cradle on the previous day.

Nancy Blackett in Woodbridge. Photo: Robin Sadler.

This revealed two small leaks, the result of her planks drying out during her prolonged period out of the water, exacerbated by the recent hot weather.

The new plan is for her to be launched next week once a mud berth at the boatyard becomes available, where she can remain to give the planks time to take up. Once she is confirmed watertight, she could be moved to a local mooring to await the opportunity to deliver her to her summer berth at Woolverstone Marina.

When we are able to resume member sailing, if that becomes possible this season, we will aim to give priority to familiarisation and training for skippers and mates, particularly the significant number of new volunteers who have responded to our appeal for skippers made in the yachting press earlier in the year.