Covid-19 News : Second Lockdown – 2nd December review

Restrictions on use of the river imposed by the Environment Agency were reviewed on December 2nd and some amendments made following advice from the Government. This affects sailing and racing at Cookham Reach Sailing Club.

Environment Agency – use of the River Thames

The Environment Agency has produced a new set of guidelines to support the government’s national measures which were reviewed on 4th December. 

Watersports including sailing, paddleboarding and kayaking are permitted for all tiers but are subject to the social distancing guidelines.

Travelling to maintain or sail your boat is permitted, however you should not visit a tier 3 area from another area or travel from a tier 3 area to another area to visit your boat.

You can check what tier you and the club are currently in at https://www.gov.uk/find-coronavirus-local-restrictions

Use of the Clubhouse and grounds

The committee has decided to close the clubhouse during the second lockdown and is only accessible by volunteers to clean the clubhouse and by volunteers and contractors for essential maintenance in the clubhouse.

Members are allowed access to the club grounds to maintain their boats, but please ensure you wash your hands regularly and stay socially distanced if you meet anyone on-site. Handwashing facilities are available to the right of the main club entrance. As with everywhere else, the rule of six also applies.

You can also use the club for informal sailing. However, as it is now Winter please consider your safety as the cold weather and river, potentially strong river currents and likelihood of stronger and gustier winds all affect safe sailing. If you cannot guarantee your safety, DO NOT sail. Please ensure you are prepared for Winter sailing with appropriate clothing and with the clubhouse being closed, please ensure you come prepared to warm up following your water-based activities.

Further reading