A SAILING club from the district has become a finalist in a national competition.

Blackwater Sailing Club, in Heybridge Basin, has been recognised in the prestigious club of the year award by the Royal Yachting Association and magazine Yachts And Yachting.

Voting is now open for the annual award which recognises outstanding achievements and dedication of sailing clubs across the UK.

The 120-year-old club is one of 11 finalists selected by the panel.

Club Commodore Steve Jarred said: “Many members in many different ways make this club the success that it is today.

“We hope to get as many votes as possible to win this accolade and to bring the trophy and its benefits home to the Blackwater and give our lovely river and sailing facilities along it the recognition it deserves”.

RYA programmes manager Michelle Gent added: “It’s a privilege to be able to reward clubs and their volunteers for all their hard work and it has been truly inspirational to hear about all the exciting initiatives taking place in our clubs.

“I am really look forward to meeting all of the finalists at the RYA Dinghy Show and would encourage the public to get voting.”

Voting closes on January 28.

For details, visit awards.yachtsandyachting.co.uk/rya.