THE annual Easter Junior training event hosted by Barnt Green Sailing Club saw 54 participants between the ages of six and 16 ensure the club was a hive of activity with the masses of boats on the water making a spectacular sight.

Tim Jobson, the Commodore, said: "We had young people of all abilities here from total beginners through to those who race at club and international level.

"We had tremendous support as usual from club members who gave their time as instructors, coaches, rescue boat drivers - and in catering and general helping.

"We hope that many of the families who have taken part in this event will join the club and continue to sail regularly," he added.

"At the club we are very proud of our youth members and have recently been designated a Volvo - Royal Yachting Association Champion Club.

"Many of our young instructors who return to help, first learnt to sail at this event and have gone on to National and International success - including Oliver Hawkley. who is campaigning a 470 for the 2004 Olympics and Carrie Vaughan who is aiming for the World Championships in her 420.

Plenty of smiling faces showed that the children were really enjoying themselves, even those who took an unexpected bath in the cold lake quickly came back for more.

It must have been a hard few days for washing machines in and around the Barnt Green area.

The club can be accessed on its website http://homepages.rya-online.net/barntgreensc or the secretary Steph Jephcott on phone 0121 445 6022.