SAILING ENTHUSIASTS IN a Moray community are hoping that it will be second time lucky on the weather front as they attempt to hold their Harbour Day.
Hopeman’s annual event had to be cancelled in June when organisers where warned that severe winds would pose a safety issue for those taking part in water-bound events.
Now the local Boatowners Association are set to try again with September 12 set as the new date for the popular annual fundraising event – with an optimistic member Nigel Gunter insisting that it will be their “glorious 12th” when the sun will be shining.
“We discussed the best date with all the organisations that contribute to the success of the day and they can all make it then,” Mr Gunter said.
He added: “This is particularly important for Gordonstoun School who provide much of the water-bound activities for young people as well as the fire engine, music and first-aid cover.”
Sailing, surfing and kayaking will be on the activities list for an event that raises funding for the care and maintenance of the harbour. A visit will be made by the Buckie Lifeboat and cutters owned and operated by Gordonstoun, while there will also be a sea angling competition.
It will be the third time the event has been held and association chairman Phil Mowat hopes that despite its late start this year will build on previous successes: “We have learned a lot from the previous two events and made some changes to reflect that.”
The Hopeman Harbour Day will be held from 11am until 4pm on Saturday, September 12.