1000 saw eight paddlers leave a breezy Milsey Bay at close to HW and head over to The Leithies to bag some shelter from the following westerly, which had given us a slightly bouncy approach. Calmer conditions allowed us to explore the bays and features along the coast below Tantallon Castle, culminating in a visit to a flooded “secret harbour” completely empty of creel boats and any associated string. Jelly babies (of various flavours) were distributed and we nipped round the corner to an early lunch at the very western corner of Seacliff beach.
The rain set in as we commenced our return into the wind, which briefly lessened and then returned, so we pulled into Canty Bay for a leg-stretch and snack. Anyone who can explain the creative grass-cutting in the field is welcome to enlighten our fanciful guesses as to what might be its purpose. Further towing practice – single/double/supported – took place as we rounded The Leithies (again), met the bouncy water (again) and returned to the now more-exposed beach at 1430.
A short but occasionally testing trip which served as a re-introduction to paddling for some and pushing their boundaries for others. Excellent communication and support were evident and the group paddled very tightly throughout to facilitate the above. Team work in action!
Big thanks to Steven, Derek, Michael, Janet, Chris, Janet and Sandy for coming out and supporting this club paddle.