Nearly 160 people braved chilly conditions on Sunday to try their hand at sailing at a special open event near Bury St Edmunds.

East Anglian Daily Times: A total of 144 taster sessions were delivered by SESCA at the open event Picture: SESCA total of 144 taster sessions were delivered by SESCA at the open event Picture: SESC (Image: Archant)

The event, held by the St Edmundsbury Sailing and Canoeing Association (SESCA) at Lackford Lake, formed part of a national initiative to encourage people to get out on the water.

The Royal Yachting Association’s ‘Push the Boat Out’ campaign is taking place during May with sailing clubs and water sports centres across the country inviting the public to try sailing for free.

Mike Steele, SESCA’s event organiser, said: “Everybody seems to have thoroughly enjoyed themselves and spoke enthusiastically about their experience and impressions of the club. “It was great to see so many people out on the water enjoying themselves. SESCA is located in a beautiful part of west Suffolk, on the edge of a wildlife reserve.

“We had a total of 156 visitors and gave 144 sailing tasters. The kayaking also proved very popular.

East Anglian Daily Times: Nearly 160 people braved the chilly conditions at Lackford Lake on Sunday to try their hand at sailing Picture: SESCANearly 160 people braved the chilly conditions at Lackford Lake on Sunday to try their hand at sailing Picture: SESCA (Image: Archant)

“We received payment for one family membership on the day and four other families indicated that they intend to join. A further 30 visitors took away membership application forms, which bodes well.”