Dinghy launch at Hollingworth Lake

The Mayor and Mayoress Surinder and Cecile Biant,The High Sheriff of Greater Manchester, Sharman Birtles JP DL, Rotary, District Governor Nigel Danby, The Rotary Club of Rochdale East President Graham Knox and Assistant District Governor Phil Emmot with the Hansa 303 Dinghy

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The High Sheriff of Greater Manchester, Sharman Birtles JP DL, accompanied by The Mayor and Mayoress, officially launched a dinghy on Wednesday that will enable sailors with limited mobility or a disability to enjoy sailing on the waters of Hollingworth Lake.

The Hansa 303 Dinghy, named after Gracie Fields, was delivered to Hollingworth Lake Sailing Club by the Rotary Club of Rochdale East.

The club raised £8,500 through charity events and charity donations to purchase the dinghy.

The first group to have use of the dinghy were The Next Step Trust.

Activity leader of the trust, Emma Lee said: “The dinghy was fantastic and was something new for us all. It was a pleasure to meet the mayor, people associated with the Rotary club and be part of it all."

The Next Step Trust is a charity established in 2006 to support adults with learning disabilities and complex health needs. Its objective is to provide a comprehensive day service provision along with other services as required by the individuals supported. 

A spokesperson for The Rotary Club of Rochdale East said the club would like to thank everyone who donated and helped to make the event a reality. He addd: "We are sure that the dinghy will be a great benefit to the community."