A CHARITY that teaches disabled people to sail had a record-breaking year last year, taking 250 people on the water.

New Forest Sailability made 2,421 outings in its small dinghies, sailing on Tuesdays and Fridays with a beginners’ course and a race team as well.

Demand is such the club is hoping to open for a third session on Wednesday mornings when the season starts again soon.

But to help them achieve their goal they really need more volunteers to help with everything from rigging boats to serving drinks.

Newsletter editor Jenny Monget said: “If you can spare some time, whether you are a sailor or not, please join us.

“ There are many jobs: receptionist, serving drinks, rigging boats, pontoon work hoisting people into and out of boats, taking people sailing, etc.

“You will bring happiness to many people and help them to achieve their full potential through the friendly world of sailing, and have fun yourself, too.

“All training will be provided as necessary.

“We are a friendly club with many interesting members. We have won several awards including the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service and RYA Centre of Excellence.”

The club’s volunteers have been busy over the last week fitting out at Blashford Lakes, and on Tuesday held their first refresher session of the year for their volunteers.

The season won’t get underway till May due to the refurbishment of the Spinnaker Sailing Club’s building, which has been delayed.

This season volunteers are also hoping to take people out from Christchurch.

For more information on New Forest Sailability go to www.newforestsailability.co.uk or contact Stefan Hart on 01202 760477 or membershipsec@newforestsailability.co.uk.