CLACTON Sailing Club took part in the Royal Yachting Association’s Push the Boat Out event.

This is a national initiative to encourage and give complete novices the chance to sail for the first time.

After some informal tuition, members of the public were teamed up with experienced club members and set sail on a variety of dinghies and catamarans.

Equipment such as wetsuits, boots and buoyancy aids were available to borrow and both the club’s rescue boats were afloat to help with supervision.

The conditions were perfect, with warm southerly winds blowing over calm seas, and the enthusiasm was infectious.

Everyone who tried it agreed sailing was great fun and, with some of the best beaches on this coastline on their doorsteps, seemed keen to come again.

One of those who took part was Nicola Maynard, who works as a teaching assistant at St Osyth Primary School.

William Stacey, a member of the club, has been one of her pupils but, on this occasion, the pair swapped roles.

Nicola admitted being excited and nervous as it was her first time afloat.

William was equally nervous as the pupil became the teacher.