The History of Evesham Sailing Club

Back in 1964, a group of likeminded people thought that with a suitable stretch of water at their disposal, they might be able to approach the necessary authorities to gain permission to use some of the River Avon for sailing. Their request was acquiesced and the required licences obtained and Evesham Sailing Club was pioneered.

The first building used as a base for the club was a small boat shed with its own slipway a short distance downstream from the present position. The news spread amongst local sailing enthusiasts and the membership grew. It soon became clear that a larger site was needed. The local authority was approached with a view to renting the site of the now defunct swimming club and permission to change its use to that of the sailing club.

 
Members made do with a small wooden shed as their base until after suffering the effects of seasonal flooding, it was realised that a more substantial building perhaps elevated above the river would be more suitable. Funds were raised from the membership to enable the club to erect the present clubhouse and to clear room for a landing stage, slipway and dinghy parking area. All the membership pooled their skills and resources to accomplish the daunting task. On 8th May 1977 the newly completed clubhouse was officially opened by D.H.Burlingham Esq. Chairman of the Lower Avon Navigation Trust who was also the current Mayor of Evesham.

The Easter floods of 1998, are another time etched in the memory of the club where members came together to overcome adversity. With the sailing season just one week old and the dinghy park full, the water levels rose, and reached abnormal heights. The torrents of water tore boats from their anchorages, and swamped and sank others. The clubhouse which is built on 6ft walls was flooded inside to a depth of 18 inches!

When the waters subsided members gathered to sort through the mud and to search for the missing craft. Boats were found in the most unlikely places, one in the children’s playground next to Abbey Rd, one found in the rowing club tennis courts, a tree near to Evesham lock was found to have grown a British Moth complete with its mast and launching trolley. Sadly for one member the only remnants of his boat were found near to Chadbury a week later, they consisted of just two splintered pieces of wood. All were found, though sadly one would never sail again.
 

Today, Evesham Sailing Club enjoys a substantial, close-knit and growing membership from all ages and walks of life.

Evesham Sailing Club

Common Road

Evesham

Worcestershire WR11 4PU