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seen in photos in magazines. Only with canoes can one so easily enjoy such variety, in the Lakeland hills one month, in the flat fens the next.
The only disappointment was the lack of members from the Midlands and Southeast. I think that all but two members had taken at least 4 hours to drive there. We decided that we would accept the kind invitation of the Hickling Broad Sailing Club to return next year and will then see whether the take-up from the Midlands and Southeast is better. Perhaps the fact that the camping issue was only resolved a month or two before the event meant attendance was lower than expected. But this is not to take anything away from the efforts of DaveT, whose project this was. He deserves every praise for organising the meet. I am sure that his attitude contributed to the warm reception we received at the sailing club. Now we have established that camping and sailing are good and inexpensive (I paid £14 for 2 days camping and launching) at Hickling we will be able to confidently sing its praises next year.
On the benefits of racing
Renate's success in the first race set me thinking. Only through racing could she have achieved the satisfaction so evident on her face. She was able to compare her sailing to that of her fellow sailors, all more experienced than she, in the same conditions over the same course. This 'test' clearly showed - most importantly, to her - that she can really sail. Those who have little time for racing, take note!
Access To The Countryside In Scotland (EddieP)
The Land Reform (Scotland) Act 2003 now gives a clear framework for everybody to enjoy outdoor sports and activities. The Scottish Canoe Assn and Scottish Natural Heritage, the relevant government agency, have produced a leaflet outlining both rights, and, as importantly, responsibilities (reproduced below). It is important that everybody realises the two-way responsibility inherent in this Act, one of the best in Europe. Much of this is common sense, so overall... think and be considerate!
There is now a statutory right of access to most land and inland water in Scotland. The Scottish Outdoor Access Code explains how to do this.
Enjoying responsible access to water:
Access rights apply to inland water such as rivers, lochs, canals, and reservoirs (with regard to the latter, the provision of access to some will come with improved water treatment at plants in 2005/06).
• Respect the needs of anglers by avoiding rods, lines, and other tackle. When close to anglers, keep noise and disturbance to a minimum.
• Care for the environment - do not disturb wildlife, plants or your surroundings. Do not pollute the water, and report any pollution or suspicious activity.
• Rivers - Watch out for anglers, pass with least disturbance, and try and attract attention from upstream. If possible, wait for a signal to proceed and then follow a route down indicated, if it is safe and practicable to do so.
• Lochs - try and keep a safe distance away to avoid any contact and disturbance. If the water is part of a commercial fishery, and intensively used, always attempt to speak to the land manager before going on the water.
• Sea - the sea is open and free, but take care to avoid disturbing nesting birds and other wildlife. For example, seals are nice to paddle near, but do not stress nursing mother seals and pups. There are many sea lochs in this guide where access poses no problem at all.
• Canals - be aware of other traffic, and avoid motorised craft, who often do not have the draft (depth in the water) to avoid you. Access rights do not apply through locks and lifts. Follow any regulations and guidance, and if in doubt - ask. The canals in this guide have a very useful and informative web-site.
• Reservoirs and hydro schemes. Avoid going too close to water intake points, spillways, or other hydro infrastructure. Remember that water levels may change very quickly, and without warning.
Extra advice to canoeists
Please pay special regard to parking on rivers or lochs, and do not park in passing places on single-track roads. This causes much annoyance to local people. Remember that parking for a van and canoe trailer requires more space than for a small car, and park with consideration.
Whilst driving on single-track roads, pay heed to the good practice prevalent, and allow overtaking by faster traffic (you can incur penalties for obstruction if you do not do this!), and pull into passing places in good time, avoiding the need for any reversing of trailers.
The public should also be aware that land managers may sometimes, for health and safety or animal welfare reasons, have to lock gates or suggest alternative routes round areas of work. Co-operating with such situations helps land managers to work safely. Anglers are asked to respect rights and allow canoes to pass at the earliest opportunity.
More information can be found on the Outdoor Access Scotland web-site.
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