New look for Sailability base as boating season approaches

Belfast Lough Sailability received a cash boost of £1400 thanks to the fundraising efforts of volunteer Bill Foster and Translink employee Gary Chambers.

The charity, which operates from a base beside Carrickfergus Sailing Club, provides sailing opportunities to people with disabilities.

Bangor man Bill Foster has been volunteering with Sailability for a number of years. Last September, he took part in a fundraising tandem cycle the length of Ireland from Malin Head to Mizen Head.

He was helped by Gary, who collected a total of £700 from fellow employees at Laganside Bus Station in Belfast.

The amount was matched by Translink’s Community Partnership, resulting in a total of £1400 for the charity.

Thanking Mr Chambers for his help, the charity also expressed their gratitude to Carrick-based volunteers Jim and Debbie Hetherington, who organised a fundraising garden party.

“The result was an awning fitted to the BLS operations base ‘The Cabin’ at the gates of Carrickfergus Sailing Club. The awning will be a great asset once our sailing season gets underway,” a Sailability spokesperson said.

The new season at BLS starts on Wednesday April 9 from 7pm. Sailing sessions are available to all with disabilities, plus a family member or carer.

For more information, see www.belfastloughsailability.com