Laying Up Supper 2025

Steve L writes…

The Venue

Tops’l has held a dinner dance for many years, but the demand for such a formal function has dropped off, so 44 Tops’l members and guests assembled at Itchenor Sailing Club on Saturday 29th November for an annual celebration of Tops’l’s sailing season. This is the first time we have used Itchenor SC and possibly not the last!

Peter C organised and ran an excellent event, enjoyed by all. Consensus was that the food was considerably better than had at previous years’ venues.

Presentations

At the end of the meal, Steve L offered a summary of the year’s activities. This was followed by a presentation from Tim P on the forthcoming cruise to southern Brittany on Elfida. Departure is currently planned for the beginning of April 2026.

Tops’l Awards

Presentation of the Tops’l awards followed. Winners were:

Topsl Bucket – Most sailing by a new member in their first season: Marcus C

Clappers Plate – Awarded for the most meritorious voyage: Tim P, for bringing Jocalia back from Plymouth

Round The Island Challenge – Fastest (handicapped) time round the Isle Of Wight: Órla C

Dave Barr Award – Outstanding contribution towards bosun matters: Steve B for work on Carina

Founders Flask – Outstanding contribution to the Tops’l cause:  Chris W, for service as bosun on Carina for many years

Congratulations to all award winners.

The Evening End

The evening concluded with discussions on crewing the French cruise (charts and pilot books for Brittany were available in an adjacent room).

Thanks again to Peter and Judy C for organising an excellent Tops’l event.