£5,000 to help Torbay disabled sailors

A Torbay-based sailing charity has received a cash boost from a housebuilder.

Dart Sailability, a volunteer-run organisation, was presented with £5,000 from Persimmon Homes Cornwall and West Devon, which will support the group’s annual operational costs.

Based at Dartside Quay at Galmpton, the organisation supports anybody with any disability to enjoy sailing, boating and associated activities including social events.

The group has a wide range of boats including dinghies, landing craft for river cruises and sailing yachts and whether you are an old hand or have never been aboard before, they cater for all abilities.

They are part of the Royal Yachting Association’s national Sailability scheme and also a recognised centre of excellence.

The boats at Dartside Quay are adapted to individual sailors’ needs and use a hoist for wheelchair users, while there is a clubhouse where sailors and volunteers can have a cuppa and cake after sailing and discuss the day’s events.

Kate Graeme-Cook, trustee and fundraiser at Dart Sailability, said: “On behalf of all our members, both sailors with disabilities and volunteers, I would like to say a huge thank you to Persimmon for its financial support which is truly appreciated.

“It costs over £50,000 per year to keep our disabled members afloat so all donations and fund raising are really appreciated.

“We welcome members with any form of physical or mental disability, together with groups and sailing takes place two to three times per week according to tides.

“Every penny will be spent wisely and will help cover our ever increasing operational costs – and we’re delighted to have received this support from Persimmon.”

The housebuilder recently secured planning permission for its nearby Inglewood site on Brixham Road, Paignton, and the donation has been made through Persimmon’s community champions campaign, which contributes up to £750,000 every year to good local causes across the country.

To mark the cheque presentation, Persimmon and members of Dart Sailability were joined by local MP, Anthony Mangnall, who said: “It was a pleasure to join Persimmon Homes as they presented Dart Sailability with a donation as part of their community champions scheme.

“Dart Sailability offers a valuable service to local people and I have no doubt that getting out on the water has many benefits, both physical and mental.”

Jane Cartwright, sales director at Persimmon Homes Cornwall and West Devon, said: “We’re delighted to support Dart Sailability at Galmpton which does so much good for local people with disabilities.

“It’s a challenging period for many and the organisation relies solely on the time given by volunteers, plus the generosity of local companies.

“With our new Inglewood development set to launch imminently, we are determined to support the communities where we build and there couldn’t be a more fitting recipient than Dart Sailability.

“We’re proud to be associated with the great work undertaken by the team of volunteers and wish members a great summer on the Dart!”

To find out more on Dart Sailability, visit www.dartsailability.org