Founded in 2013, the Hanningfield Sailability Project aims to provide people with disabilities the opportunity to sail in the heart of Essex. Hanningfield Reservoir is a large non-tidal area of open water with shore side facilities for storage of boats and equipment.
Today, funded by public voluntary donations and fundraising, Hanningfield Sailability has 40 members and approximately 30 regular helpers. The organisation now has a club house with slipway, pontoon, electric hoist and power winch, and 12 boats for use by members, including trimarans, dinghies and keelboats.
The 2023 season begins in April, with sailing taking place on Wednesday and Thursdays. More confident sailors can sail single-handed, otherwise a “buddy” will sail with the sailor.
Roy Hart, Commodore, and Chris Atkins, Vice Commodore, said: “Hanningfield Reservoir is probably one of the United Kingdom’s biggest sailing areas where the sailing activities are dedicated only for disabled sailing. We were thrilled to win the Pride of Essex Community Award!”
For more information about the Hanningfield Sailability Project visit https://www.hanningfieldsailability.org/ or for more information about how to get out on the water in the East Region, visit https://www.rya.org.uk/start-boating