LIGHT winds and hot sun greeted visitors to Arden Sailing Club at Defford for the club's annual Comet Open Competition which attracted 16 competitors from as far afield as Chester and Merthyr Tydfil as well as from other local clubs.

The Comet dinghy, an increasingly popular single hander, performs well on the Avon River conditions at Defford.

Three races were the order of the day commencing at 11am.

The first race was won by Steve Lemmon, Comet 168, from neighbouring Severn Sailing Club. A very close second going to Henry Jaggers, Comet 500, of Staunton Harold and third place to John Edwards, Comet 633, of Chester.

The second race followed a similar pattern only this time Evesham sailor Phil Hossell, Comet 650, from Severn Sailing Club achieved a very respectable third place being only a few seconds behind the winner and runner up Steve Lemmon and Henry Jaggers.

Race three saw the same names achieving success, only this time it was John Edwards first, Henry Jaggers second and Phil Hossell third, leaving his fellow club mate Steve Lemmon to pick up fourth place.

Overall success went to local sailor Steve Lemmon, his two first places giving him the edge over Henry Jaggers who came second.

Third place overall went to John Edwards and fourth to Phil Hossell.

Other people deserving a mention are Mark Govier, Comet 460, from Merthyr Tydfil who did well in fifth place overall as it was his first taste of river sailing. Local Arden sailor Clive Marlow, Comet 408, from Malvern achieved 9th place in race three and overall 12th position for the day.

Special thanks must go to Jo Marlow with the help of Kathleen Tildsley who prepared and served a delicious three course meal to all competitors and helpers. To Arden Sailing Club secretary Alan Salerman who was Officer of the Day and club member John Tildsley his Assistant, for a well organised event. Also Worcester sailors Helen Williams and Dave Bowen for safety boat cover.

Anyone interested in sailing or learning to sail can contact Keith Stevens on 01684 310154