After a briefing from John Hunt of the Seabird Centre, a full score of paddlers, subdivided into three groups, left North Berwick harbour at 1000, marvelling at the massively destructive impact of recent storms on the northern wall – a telling lesson in relation to the latent power embedded in the environment sea kayakers inhabit.
Forty minutes into a sunny F3/4 westerly with minimal chop brought us to The Lamb and its South Dog skerray, between which is the traditional landing/scrambling point to access the main island. Co-operative instincts and efforts kicked in to ensure we landed safely, secured our boats and carried the required implements to the point of operations.
After a quick jelly-baby input, we set about the main patch of remaining mallow, conveniently situated directly above our landing point. Such was the enthusiasm and application of those present that within fifty minutes our work was done; it’s clear that recent storms have washed out other areas more vulnerable to salination to good effect.
Cake aka lunch ensued. While the Chair’s exhortations on provision had clearly been adhered to, it was galling that he was not present to sample the wares – or perhaps not, since there was plenty for everyone.
Our task(s) completed, and with unexpected time available, we took to the water again and, after circling The Lamb to check for unseen mallow – none – we paddled across to the beach at Black Murphies and then, with freshening wind behind us, rock-hopped amongst Cowton Rocks and the Hummel Ridges back to a busy North Berwick for a still earlier-than-expected finish.
A fantastic turn-out from the club on what was, for many, the first paddle of the year. A big thankyou to organiser, leaders and volunteers involved.