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A personal account............It was thanks to John and Lorraine, who provided the lift and tented accommodation, that I was able to join everyone else and take part in a very enjoyable weekend.


Most of us: Adrian, Peter and Jeanette, Dee and Jerry, Dan, Mark, Newton, Amanda and Martin (who took the more private, soft option of an Air BnB!) John, Lorraine and me, arrived on Friday afternoon. (Actually, Peter and Jeanette were already settled at the campsite, having arrived the previous Wednesday.) We were joined by Mags, her son Adam, along with Reika, her boisterous rottweiler, plus Steve, Geoff and Helen from Dereham kayakers.


It happened to be Mags' birthday, so of course we all walked to the nearby pub to start the weekend off in the best social way possible. The pub is a very pleasant short walk away, whichever route is taken, through fields with horses, and windmill, backlit by mid-September sun. 


Returning to the camp site after dark from the pub was one of my highlights (before most of us had done any kayaking). It was warm and quiet, with a clear night sky, so Martin was in his element as he pointed out constellations and other features, which it seemed, a lot of us didn't know. Fortunately, I had taken my binoculars, which enabled us to see so much more. With little light pollution, Martin continued to point out things after we were back at camp. That night sky was memorable, including sight if a couple of shooting stars. (Hope those who saw them made a wish.)


Another feature of this very pleasant and fairly remote campsite (Bureside Holiday Park) was how little traffic noise there was. That lack of noise was made up for on the first night by a group in our sector of the site, who were set up near Dee and Jerry's tent. Camping isn't Dee's favourite thing anyway and she put up with the racket until after midnight, when she stormed over and complained in no uncertain terms! Next morning, several of us helped them move pitch behind the next hedge!


One of the advantages of this campsite is the easy access to a slipway for all the kayakers. Once launched, we were straight onto a waterway which led to the main routes through the Broads. With Adrian at the helm for this weekend, we all set off about 9.30 am, with an initial plan to go to South Walsham. Early on, Adrian made sure we understood the rules of the road on the Broads and he kept a watchful eye (and mouth!) at junctions. 


It was a lovely, warm sunny morning. Too good not to make the most of, so initial route was changed and we continued on to Ranworth Broad. There we created the colourful scene of 17 sea kayaks hauled out on the green. Drinks, cakes and savouries called us at the nearby hostelry, as well as a handy toilet break. Re-launching took a while as Ranworth was busy with other people and different craft, as well as us. 


Birdwatching is one of my interests, along with wildlife generally, plus the sight of some very nicely planted gardens. Kayaking on the Norfolk Broads was good for all those things and, I noted for the future, a place to come in the spring, when nightingale and other migrant warblers are in full song. In mid-September though, I saw Hobby on several occasions, silhouetted in the sky, hawking for dragonflies, which they catch and eat in flight. Feeding up, I thought, ready for the long migration back to Africa. Cetti's warbler, with their explosive call, were heard often. Once a rarity in the area, now a permanent feature of the Broads. Great crested grebe, some with youngsters, were not that shy and easy to approach. Then there was the whistling peep of a Kingfisher and a flash of turquoise and bronzy orange as it darted away. 


I am a beginner at kayaking, only joining CKC, in June 2022. The Crouch is therefore the only body of water I have been on as a paddler. Being on the Norfolk Broads (rather than seen from the land by bicycle, as I did in the past) seemed to me a rather intimate watery experience. It was mostly a delight, apart from the many motorboats and other craft to look out for. Otherwise, I could have daydreamed my way all day. The classic Broads wooden sailing yachts were a lovely sight, with sails aloft, sometimes looking as though they were gliding through the reeds.


After Ranworth, we retraced a bit, turning left to Horning, past some beautiful gardens, fancy boathouses and expensive real estate. Some good photo ops on this route, which I trusted Dan, and others with cameras to see. I don't recall how far we paddled this day. There was so much of interest to see, it almost seemed effortless most of the time. On the return leg, we hauled out once more for a break. There was an historical site (St Benet's Abbey) a short walk away. Fortunately, Dan came along with his camera and took some interesting shots of the windmill (just the main tower remaining) which had been built within the walls of part of the old abbey. On reading the history board, it made me think politically of then and now. "plus, ca change"... came to mind, with exploitation of those with least power, who eventually rose up in desperation against the Abbey's masters. I was also reminded of Molière's play The Miser: "What? You expect to be paid to work for me!?" All too current, I thought.


The image of another walk through a green and treelined lane to a welcoming pub, spurred me on to the last paddle stroke of our first day.


The weather was changing, the wind was getting up, and that night cloud was building. Some of us were in rebellious mood after a long day's paddle. With several drinks and a hot supper inside us, we were on holiday and didn't feel like setting off for a paddle to Potter Heigham too early next morning, so we outvoted our leader and decided on 10.30 am start for Sunday. However, come the morning, we were up and ready earlier than that. No, Adrian said, tough. We had voted and we'd leave later. By then the wind had got up and the rain started. It wasn't too cool to begin with, but those without wind or waterproofs were feeling a bit cold by the time we returned to the campsite. In spite of that, it didn't rain the whole time and the paddle to Potter Heigham was visually interesting in a different way. Properties by the waterside were generally less affluent and sometimes quirky. Also, it was interesting to go under the famous bridge and a bit beyond. The weather meant we didn't stop anywhere for a break, but instead headed straight back.


By Sunday night, most had packed up and gone home ready for work next day. That left Lorraine, John and me, plus Peter and Jeanette and Dan. The rain had stopped and of course we had to go to the pub for one last meal! It turned out to be a most convivial evening, with enjoyable tales and much laughter. Dan drove home that night, whilst the rest of us spent the night under canvas once again. During the night heavy rain arrived, with eventually an overhead thunderstorm. I was grateful for my comfy camp bed off the ground. By morning the storm had passed and the sun came out, which made for an easy pack up at the end of a lovely weekend. Thanks to Adrian for organising it and the good company of everyone else. Clare Albon

Photos supplied by: Dan, Martin, Newton, Mags & Dee



The River Stour Bures to Nayland - 6 miles

By Andy Coppin • 04 May, 2024
Earlier in the year Crouch Kayak Club (CKC) applied for funding through the Essex Community Fund (ECF) for additional equipment. We particular felt that purchasing river boats would lengthen our season and would help introduce more people to our sport. We subsequently found out that we had been successful with the ECF securing funding from the Turncole Windmill Farm Benefit Fund. Our Paddle UK - Quality Club status achieved for the third consecutive year undoubtedly strengthened the success of our application. Unusually of late the weather was perfect, sunny, light cloud and little wind, so it seemed like a great day for the river boats maiden voyage. We arrived at Bures, completed the car shuffle followed by the pre paddle chat which was led by Jerry with Adrian giving advice and encouragement. The group of Jerry, Adrian, Dee, Alan, Clare, Newton, John, Andy and Dan were a mixture of first timers and old hands paddling river boats. A couple of us decided not to use spray decks as the river was calm. As we started off it was clear who the first timers were, river boats take a different kind of concentration to our usual sea kayaks and a couple of us spent the first few minutes graceful spinning around 360 degrees. We soon all got the hang of it. The first porterage was not long after we started but working as a team we soon were back on the river, which was stunning, plenty of wildlife, no road noise, perfect conditions. We carried on and passed Smallbridge Hall which is an impressive Elizabethan house. Shortly after we arrived at another weir, so we walked the boats to the other side. On getting back on the river some of the team inspected the fast-running water from the weir and unfortunately one of those people who didn't have a spray deck went a bit too close and took on a little too much water. Of course, it is very much a case of following the no name, no pack drill and what happens on tour stays on tour! As soon as I had finished pumping the water out of my boat we continued along the Stour. We encountered kingfishers, ducks, geese, a young swan and many other birds. We then reached the next porterage where we had lunch, it was a very peaceful place with just the noise from the weir as a back drop. Dee kindly handed out Jaffa Cake bars which helped spur us on for the final stretch to Nayland. As you approach Nayland there are some lovely properties on the river bank and after you navigate under the road bridge someone has thoughtfully put a pub there. So of course, we enjoyed a quick, refreshing well-earned drink. Many thanks for all that organised the paddle, Jerry for leading it, Adrian for the instruction and encouragement and for everyone who took part and enjoyed the day. " We extend our gratitude to the Essex Community Fund and the Turncole Windmill Farm Benefit Fund for their invaluable assistance in acquiring the new equipment." Andy Coppin Photos supplied by: Dee, Dan, John & Newt0n

Wet Waveney Weekend

By Kelsey Eaton Bennett • 26 Apr, 2024
The paddle continues, shortly we find another tree that has decided to have a rest across the river. Mark calls from the back of the boat “Ramming Speed?” I call back, “Yep lets go.” My self and Mark line up the boat while slightly confused Adrian and David watch on. We go for it. The boat again flies over the tree, victory number 2 for the Ramming Speed technique. After that there were a few more tree related puzzles, but the group solved them together and with the river widening and calming we make it to the next camp site. Now I will explain the first line of this blog. As I set up my tent and unpacked for the evening a very quiet, Adrian appears and makes some quiet comments on how much stuff I have in my bag and it must be magic to fit it all in. Then a slightly less quiet comment, “ITS MARY POPPINS!” From nowhere David appears and we end up with the pair of them jumping around shouting “old bamboo, old bamboo!” A hilarious sight to behold that then happened every time they saw me for the rest of the trip. I hope I get the same treatment the next time I see them. The evening rolls in and we progress to the pub and a fish and chip supper. Day 3, starts again with a tea from Mark and a cereal bar. Once again packed up we set off down the river to our last stop, which promised Sunday lunch! The paddle was a lot calmer than the previous days, until we found a rather aggressive swan that did not want to give up his corner of the river. All 7 boats attempted to huddle together by the bank, while we sent Andy to try and shoo the swan away. No Luck, we ping ponged from bank to bank trying to get the swan to give way. No luck. Then Andy and Peter put their boats end to end and funnelled the Swan to the opposite bank, while we all passed on the other side. Success! We continue the paddle with very little further intervention from nature. Only a more relaxed swan here and there and the reflection of upstanding trees in the river. We then get to the marina, start to pull the boats out….. and the heavens opened. Once changed and boats packed onto cars and trailers we headed for the pub, for our well-deserved Sunday roast. Content but shattered, we all dispersed back to Essex and Norfolk and a few places in-between. Thanks to Adrian for organising, Mark for steering better than I could and showing me that tea is needed in these situations, and a big thank you to the rest of the group for making it a hilarious and brilliant trip. Looking forward to the next one! Kelsey Eaton Bennett

Quality Club Status Achieved!

By Dee Thornton • 28 Mar, 2024
Great news everyone! We're thrilled to announce that for the third consecutive year, Crouch Kayak Club has been granted Paddle UK Quality Club Status! 🎉 This national award recognises clubs that excel in providing paddle sport activities. Quality assessment questionnaire, which evaluates key aspects such as Affiliation, Governance, Safety, Safeguarding, and Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion, highlighted our club's outstanding performance. We scored an impressive 95% in three of these categories! At the heart of our achievements lies our excellent governance, the foundation upon which we continue to thrive and grow as a club. Moving forward, Crouch Kayak Club remains committed to maintaining an inclusive environment, that engages our members and aligns with our club's mission. With ongoing assessment, staying true to our core values, encourage open communication, and regularly revising our practices to ensure we're always improving. Here's to many more years of success and adventure on the water together! 🚣‍♂️💙 Dee x

Chairmans Report 2024

By Jerry Thornton • 17 Mar, 2024
As we approach the start of another season, we reflect on the achievements of the club throughout 2023. Despite the bad weather at the start we managed to pack a lot in with training and trips away, Adrian has been busy plotting and planning for this year with a few dates already on the club calendar and more to follow. Before I talk further about the coming new season I wanted to thank and welcome new members onto the committee. Our amazing secretary Amanda, has decided to step down this year from her role. We remain enormously grateful to Amanda who has given her time over the years, keeping everything running and ship shape, we thank you. Warm welcome to Andy Coppin, who will be taking on the role of Equipment Officer, Dan Rodwell, Social Media Officer, Alan Organ as our new Welfare Officer, Lorraine Holliday as Minutes Secretary, and Newton Ford as our Health and Safety Officer. Congratulations and well done to all! To our previous committee members and the dedicated volunteers who form the backbone of our club, we extend our gratitude. Your contributions are invaluable, we are eager for both existing and new members to continue supporting the club. Even the smallest contribution can make a difference. So, on to 2024 our focus will be on enhancing training opportunities, offering qualifications, hosting taster sessions, and, of course, enjoying numerous paddling adventures! Lastly, it's important to acknowledge the impact the club has had over the years in providing countless others with the opportunity to participate in paddling the river, Crouch. The club opens its doors to all, offering the necessary tools, resources, and guidance for personal growth and development. At its core, the club has always been committed to maintaining a sense of community, providing a safe and welcoming environment for all. This commitment remains unwavering. Moving forward, CKC will continue its efforts to refine and promote the paddling experience for the benefit of everyone involved. Our achievements are a source of immense pride for both the committee and its members. Do enjoy a selection of photos from some of our best moments in 2023! Jerry Thornton, Chairman Photos: Louise, Dan, Martin & Dee

To The Backs and Back

By Dee Thornton • 22 Oct, 2023
Well, how lucky were we to slip into a little bit of sunshine after such a horrendous wet week! An early start meant meeting at the little village of Grantchester, on the river Cam, which cuts through the heart of Cambridge City. Good to see all 6 of the club’s canoes out on the water, for the first time this year. With the recent heavy rains, the flow was pretty impressive and with effortless paddle stokes we commenced our journey past the Grantchester meadows admiring the picturesque beauty of the Cambridgeshire countryside. As we started our navigation to Cambridge, any concerns about flooded fields and staying on the correct path was not a problem although the river was very swollen, we comfortably meandered our way in between fallen trees and overhanging branches. Well most of Us! We pass Coe Fen inhabited by cattle grazing by the side of the water’s edge and in no time at all we are approaching Scudamore’s Mill, we are no longer alone, the area is populated with tourists and of course, the ever-popular punts, offering guided river tours, I use the term “guided” lightly as this is more of a doge the dodgems exercise. With Punts coming in all directions, this is always one of the most challenging parts on this river. The additional pull of water meant we had to stay extra vigilant, but with the promise of lunch we continued our steady path towards Jesus Green we are now in the area known as the “The Backs” passing immaculate lawns of Trinity College we reach the Bridge of Sighs a stone covered bridge at St John's College, built-in 1831. Queen Victoria is said to have loved it more than any other spot in Cambridge and I have to agree. It only takes us an hour to arrive at our destination. With the sun still shining we settle ourselves for lunch, well some certainly know how to lunch in style as cake, wine, and cheese start to flow! Alas, the time comes to head back with an evident awareness of the challenge ahead. Yes, it was going to be a slog, and yes, we were going to have to dig in but hey we are the Crouch Kayak Club bring it on...........1hr 55mins later we are tied, exhausted and hurting more than any of us would wish but we are back. And my favourite part of paddling with this group is that we are still smiling, joking and supporting each other as boats are heaved up the river bank and walked back to the trailer. Loved spending my Sunday with you all, great paddle. Thanks, Adrian, for towing the trailer, and a special warm wish to Mags, Louise and Lewis who don’t normally paddle with the group, well done to you we all, we hope to paddle with you again soon . Dee Photos Supplied: Mags, Lewis, Dan, Dee & Louise

Dorset Summer Camping

By Dan Rodwell • 15 Jun, 2023
15th - 19th June 2023  Day 1 - Wareham to Shell Bay at Studland. Leisurely paddle to start the day from Redcliffe Farm Campsite out to the entrance of Poole Harbour via the River Frome and into the Wareham channel. Gorgeously hot weather and sheltered initially from any real breeze due to the hills blocking the winds coming in from across the sea. Lots of water and sun cream was high on the agenda for ‘things to pack’ aboard most of the kayaks. Good mixture of people kayaking for day 1, ranging from the pros of the group (who need no introduction) to those whose first time it was kayaking outside their local rivers. The paddle was led by Adrian and Jeff, with the loudest instruction coming from Adrian throughout the day, mainly aimed at myself as the paddle newbie, reminding me not to paddle off ahead of the group as if I’m paddling at the pace of white-water rafter venturing down the rapids of the Colorado river. Plus, some handy tips on boat & wave avoidance, no idea why I’ve already got the reputation for capsizing!!! First stop was at the beach near lake pier, this is on the east side of Poole Harbour, just off the Wareham channel. We then made a south westerly crossing over to Patchins Point with some lovely side winds and chopper waters to contend with, we then went into calmer waters and proceeded to follow the shoreline as we headed towards our destination of Studland, taking in close up and interesting views of the private islands dotted across Poole Harbour, such as the appropriately but boringly named set islands such as “Long, Round and Brownsea”. All lovely to see with their many “You can’t land here” plaques dotted across their private beaches, reminding us how the other half live. After many attempts to find a suitable rest stop we had no real option but to paddle ahead and towards our destination, again back into chopper waters and head on winds as we approached Shell Bay and our final destination for the day. We then had the fun of shuttling people and kayaks back to the campsite, concluding the fun afloat for day 1. Day 2 - Ringstead Bay to Lulworth Cove. Our 2nd day of kayaking took us out to sea and along the coast from Ringstead Bay down to lulworth Cove via some beautiful coastline and rocky outcrops such as Bat’s Head and Durdle Door. Blessed with a second day of lovely weather and extremely calm seas we headed off, joined this time by some late arrival from Dereham and Gravesend, all who had sneaked into the campsite under the cover of darkness the night before. Our first rest stop was along one of the lovely beaches dotted along the coastline, a new experience for some of the group being their first having purposely go aground on the beach whilst judging the best speed, direction and gap in any breaking waves before making their final approach. Shortly after everyone was settle on the beach and enjoying their rest stop, an unexpected wave just happened to find its way to Adrian’s Kayak, quickly lifting it up and pulling it out to sea. Lucky for Adrian, eagle eyes members of the group spotted this mini dream about to unfold. I quickly reverted to RNLI shout mode and swiftly went into the water to recover Adrian’s kayak from drifting out to Sea. It was starting to feel like an episode of “Saving Kayaks at Sea”, but the group was keen to save the “Yellow Kayak”, which Adrian assures me is superior to the “Orange” ones he would have happily waved off to sea, if they had accidentally gone drifting. We then proceed along our route taking in more stunning coastline and passing through the rock formations of Bat’s Head and the rocky arch at Durdle Door, which was a fun experience for all. We then made our way further along the route and arrived in the picturesque setting of Lulworth Cove, arriving on the beach with our brightly coloured Flotilla of kayaks. Many of the fellow kayakers took this rest stop to pop to the loo, grab a well-deserved ice cream and then relax on the beach and take in the views. Before anyone had a chance to notice, I was already half way up the footpath leading down to beach hunting for a local pub, managing to secure myself a freshly poured pint of IPA before returning to the beach with a bubble gum ice cream as my cover story, which was quickly unpicked by the group as they all seemed to know where I was rushing off too at such pace. After a short break on the beach, we all then headed back towards Ringstead beach taking in the views and assisted by the changing tides, finally arriving back at very busy Ringstead Beach. Day 3 - A gentle lap of the River Frome upriver from the campsite slipway, taking in another day of kayaking on a completely different type water way, this paddle was mainly on very calm water allowing us to have bit more speed and fun as we zipped upriver and under Wareham Bridge, plenty of other pleasure boats, swimmers and paddle boarders also out on narrow river making it a pleasant and very social paddle. After going as far as we were allowed in kayaks, we then headed back to the campsite slip way before deciding we would proceed as far down river without entering into Poole harbour. This gave us some time to rest up whilst out on the water and enjoy some group chit chat before heading back to the slipway to exist for a well-deserved break from kayaking and prep for our final dinner down Wareham high street. All in all, the long weekend consisted of perfect weather for camping & kayaking, idyllic locations to paddle and great company. Dan Rodwell Photos Supplied by: Ged, John, Martin & Dee

Two Blokes go Paddling in Pembrokeshire

By Ian Woodland • 10 Jun, 2023
28th May - 2nd June 2023 Lee and I decided early in the year to look for paddling opportunities that maximise the ratio of paddling to faff and travel time, to get the most from days off work. A week in Pembrokeshire with Sea Kayaking Wales looked opportune. We went for the neap tides option, billed as the "Moderate" week and we are very glad we did because the daily serving of Force 4+ winds ensured there was a good balance of conditions and more than enough excitement for us. The weather was glorious all week. The wind and direction just dictated where we paddled to get shelter from the coastline. We had great views from our tent pitches at the Rhosson Ganol campsite across Ramsey Sound and Ramsey Island and it proved to be nicely located for each day's paddle. There were 6 other paddlers plus two leaders and it was great to have women outnumber the men for once. Lee took his own boat but I opted to borrow a kayak from Sea Kayaking Wales at no extra cost so I didn't expect to be loaned a brand spanking new Romany Classic in a fetching grey and blue colour scheme, my thanks to Gethin Roberts at SKW for that. I'm praying he hasn't looked too closely at the bottom, at least until he has given it out to someone else because I may have misjudged a few submerged rocks! As the saying goes, no good deed goes unpunished. We occasionally split into two groups so people had a choice of chilled nature watching or exciting and bouncy which roughly equated to dry or wet in my case, when ambition exceeded talent. Highlights? I think Lee would cite rock hopping and a seal sunbathing in a RIB, I'd go with the circumnavigation of Ramsey Island and the tide races. While the Witches Cauldron sunken cave that is only really reachable through a tunnel in the rock by kayak would be on both of our lists but with stunning scenery and wildlife in all directions it's difficult to choose. Suffice it to say that after 6 straight days of paddling and camping my full-size bed has never felt so good but we have already talked about doing it again next year, so let us know if you fancy joining us next time. Camping is optional Dee! Ian Woodland

Training Weekend

By Dee Thornton • 09 Jun, 2023
All members were invited to the training on Friday which kicked off with 13 members attending alongside CKC training officer Peter Evans and Dereham Coaches Jeff and Helen Toser who assisted members during the session. A short paddle up to Creeksea to commence some forward stroke techniques, edging, boat manoeuvre, bow rudder, high brace, low brace and for a few who braved the chilly water capsizing and self-rescue practice. Both Ian and Dan did a wonderful demonstration of getting out of their boats, perform a pirouette then sitting on the back of their boat whilst paddling……. You will all be pleased to know that this is not a new requirement of Wednesday paddles but was a good demonstration of balance, although a tad daft! Lee performed a very sleek effortless eskimo roll, well done you. The club is pleased to welcome another new face Allan who managed to stay dry on his first paddle out with the group unlike one of our previous new members! We look forward to organising more of these training sessions during the season so keep an eye on the club’s calendar for updates. CKC also, organised its second First Aid course for BSC members. CKC now have 9 fully qualified first aiders. Well done to Andy Coppin, Ian Woodland, Mark Kendrick and John Holliday who completed their training alongside three BSC Sailing members. And we didn’t stop there, on Saturday with the assistance of Jeff we pulled out the KayakPro ergometer machine designed to help kayakers improve their paddle stroke. Jeff spent time demonstrating and advising each one of us on how we can improve and achieve a more efficient stroke when paddling. Those that tried are now super excited to get back on the water to practice. As always, a big thank you to each and every member plus guests who volunteer their free time to organise these events for the club. Dee Photos Supplied by : Martin , Dee & Helen

Destination Geldeston Suffolk

By Lorraine & John Holliday • 21 Apr, 2023
We met at Brockdish on Friday at 9 am. There were six intrepid explorers, Adrian (Leader), Mark, John, Lorraine, Jeff and David, and four canoes. We unloaded and packed all the gear and then shuttled the cars to Geldeston Marina, the end point, assisted by Helen. Thanks to Helen for bringing the drivers back to the start. We left about 10.30 and encountered our first obstacle a few hundred yards down the river. A new tree had fallen down, so it was out with the saws and we eventually managed to get all the canoes through. The river was quite full and so the going was good, except for a patch of weed which looked like we were canoeing through grass. We had to portage the canoes four times on the first day, but working together as a team we managed to get them all through. There was a fifth portage but we managed to canoe around that one. At the longest portage we stopped for a rest and had our lunch. We reached the campsite at about 4 pm having paddled and pulled for about 15 km. Fortunately the campsite was in the grounds of the Black Swan and we had a table booked for 6.30. They were very kind and made no charge for the camping. Adrian did not manage to finish his mucky duck burger! We set out on Saturday at 9.30 and it was an easier day with only three portages. We met another obstacle, a large tree trunk, which was laying so close to the water that the canoes would only just go under. We had to lay flat in the canoe to get under the tree. Another interest was the chute, which was moving fairly fast and not as bumpy as usual. It was very pretty with walled sides and the castle surrounding it. We did the bungay loop which had some faster bits where the river narrowed and the inevitable low hanging branches but by now we were getting good at ducking! We paddled about 14.5 km that day, arriving at the campsite about 2.30 pm. We were all pretty tired and about 5 pm we went to find fish and chips and a few beers in Bungay. We all turned in at 8.30 pm! On Sunday we left at 9.30 am and Mark swapped with David to try his hand in one of the single canoes. He thoroughly enjoyed this but decided it was more exhausting than paddling with Adrian, so he swapped back. This trip was easier going as the river was wider, but there were still three portages, two easy ones and the last one was pretty tricky. We had to unload all the gear and carry the gear and canoes over a five bar gate and across a field to get to a safe place to relaunch. Once again teamwork was the key. Adrian even managed to get Lorraine over the fisherman’s style, not designed for midgets, which avoided a climb over the five bar gate. We had been very lucky with the weather over the whole trip but knew that bad weather was on its way. We pushed on to Geddleston arriving just before 1 pm and having paddled 11.5 km. The rain was just starting but we managed to load the gear into the cars without getting too wet. Then we headed for Sunday lunch at the Wherry Inn and the rain really came down. The lunch was very good although the unexpected crash of the dresser falling off did add a bit of excitement. We would all like to thank Adrian for organising the trip which was thoroughly enjoyable, fantastic fun and a great experience for all the participants. Lorraine & John Holliday

Making a Splash!

By Dee Thornton • 15 Apr, 2023
A great evening with CKC members enjoying our final pool session for a few months, next session will be 16th September make sure this date is in your diary. The pool was awash with Sea Kayaks and paddlers practicing a whole blend of skills and techniques like how to retrieve an unconscious paddler which presented a few challenges, edging, roll practice, strokes, turns, sculling draw, capsize and self-rescues, my goodness what an action filled session all fantastically orchestrated and supervised by Peter Evans. Great to welcome three new faces to the mix Andy, Laura and Dan who literally threw themselves into the fun more than they may have anticipated! Wet exit training/skill practice sessions scheduled to take place during Wednesday sessions these specific sessions will be put on the club calendar so keep a look out. Thank you to all involved. See you on the water soon. Dee
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