Over 90 youngsters - and some not so young! - took to the water in Bishops Stortford on 20 August to have what, for many, was their first taste of kayaking.

The day started early for the club's volunteers as the boats needed to be towed upriver from the clubhouse. Registration was based on the patio of Cambio Lounge, who also provided refreshments for the volunteers. Five of the club's coaches (Fred, Malcolm, Ken, Jacque and Gary) worked tirelessly all afternoon to make sure everyone was safe and happy on the water. Additional support was provided by Alex, Darren, and junior club member William.

The event raised a total of just over £460 for Grove Cottage (home of Bishop's Stortford Mencap).

See a slide-show of photos.

A small group of Stortford paddlers went to the Hasler at Richmond. There were no points of course as this was an out-of-region event, but prizes and promotions are still awarded - as Ella proved by coming away with a gold in Division 5 and promotion to 4! See full results of the Richmond Hasler.

SINGLES -
Div 2: Josh Young 4th (1:49:50), Matt Parkes 5th (1:51:35)
Div 5: Ella Beatty 1st (1:13:51), Heidi White (rtd), Ricky White (rtd)
Div 8: Octavia Chambers 10th (47:46)
DOUBLES -
Div 7: Anne Barnett & Nathan Lambert 5th (43:36)