2020 will go down as one of the most difficult in the history of the club. Rowing activity was severely curtailed in January and February due to flood conditions. Then just as we were getting back out along came coronavirus.
Despite all this we have kept going, during lockdown by virtual activity and then gradually returning to full activity on the water. Staying safe has meant making adjustments to the way we behave and I would like to thank all members for patiently following instructions. Chloe, our Captain has done a huge amount of work to keep us all safe and in compliance with Government and British Rowing guidance.
The club committee is deciding whether it will be in a position to offer any rebate for the period when activities were curtailed and a decision will be made once we have weathered the winter. It is likely that those offered a rebate will be given the option to donate it back to club funds with gift aid. We will also make a decision about what we expect from those who are in arrears; we will of course consider writing off arrears in cases of hardship but in fairness to all those who have paid their due we will need to collect arrears in appropriate cases.
The committee have continued to explore the development of our site and talks with CWAC and the Charity Commission are ongoing about regularising our access to the premises. Those who have been down will have seen Duncan Little's hard work in tidying up the club and Richard Wallace's work on the new blade racks.
We are also pleased to say that we have obtained a grant to buy 4 new sculling boats which will benefit all the membership; juniors , seniors and master alike.
Those who read the sad news about Michal P's retirement as a junior coach will be pleased to note that Michal is embarking on a new project for the club to develop adaptive rowing.
Finally a Merry and safe Christmas to all our members and a hope that 2021 will be altogether different.
Jack McGarva