The celebrations included a fish supper, songs by the the club’s very own “Mariner’s Mates” shanty group at Sutton United Football stadium, and a fantastic group photo of over 40 smiling members including a good few original members.

The club aims to promote and facilitate boating, both sail & power, to provide for the study of seamanship and to provide social and other facilities. It has members who come to club nights to learn about things boating and enjoy talks covering a wide range of interest. There are also has members living in various parts of the country who enjoy meeting up on sailing rallies that are organised throughout the summer.

Club Rear Commodore Gary Eversfield says: “I wished more people realised the benefits of sailing.

“We have members from their mid 30’s to mid 80’s, from gardeners to gas engineers, and around 10 percent of members started in the 1980s. They originate from Ukraine, Shetland, Greece, Russia and even Mitcham so it shows the love of sailing knows no geographic boundaries.

“With 67 members, we’ve grown 10 percent in last 2 years. Our success comes despite the fact that we don’t own a club house or any real assets, and we are at least 50 miles from our nearest coast.

“Nam amor navigandi (for the love of sailing). Well proud to be a Sutton Mariner.”

This article was first published at https://www.rya.org.uk/news/sutton-mariners-sailing-club-celebrates-35-years