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The idea to establish a Pilot Gig rowing club in Lyme Regis seemed a wonderful way
to continue the rich maritime history of the town. So when in 2005 local doctor Andy
Llewelyn and his wife Carolyn acquired an old ‘24ft jolly boat’ called ‘Greta’ that could be
rowed at sea, the first seeds were sewn. Joined by a crew including Marcus and Diana Dixon,
Philip and Julia Colfox and Karen Hull, the intrepid Lyme rowers embarked on a series of rowing
adventures that have seen them cross the English Channel from Dover, take part in the
Great River (Thames) Race from Twickenham to Greenwich and race from Crosshaven to Cork in
Ireland. These initial adventures raised local interest and developed the momentum to establish
the Lyme Regis Gig Club,and the commissioning of a Cornish pilot gig.
The groundswell of interest in the Lyme Regis Gig Club has been astonishing and local people
of all ages have joined the project team since the official launch of the Club in February 2007. Over
the summer there have been a number of positive developments and things are really underway.
September is the start of the campaigning season where the new Lyme Gig Club need to secure
the Gig Shed, increase the membership, set up the process of running the club, buy ancillary
equipment etc.We’ve got off to a fantastic start and over the next eight months we need to maintain
the momentum and hopefully be in a position to compete in CPGA events and possibly commission
a second gig this time next year.
Special thanks must be given to the ex Mayor and Mayoress, Ken and Jo Whetlor, who have supported
the Gig Club since it's conception, and were our first official members. Don't forget to visit Ken's Gig Blog.
Renowned Gig builder Ralph Bird, discusses the build with project leader, Gail McGarva.
NEWS: June 2008.
- LAUNCH DAY LOOMING!
Our first gig, Rebel, will be launched
on Sunday the 29th of June. More info.
- HELP NEEDED!
The committee has a huge task ahead of it, including
fundraising, building of the Gig shed, and organisation for the big launch.
If you can help in any way
Click here.
- New club polo shirts now available. Click here for details.
- We are now officially a member club of the Cornish Pilot Gig Association.
C.P.G.A
- Funding secured for the first Gig. The G.F.Eyre Charitable Trust has generously
donated the total build cost.
- Membership to the club has reached over 90.
- Oar building course yields 7 new oars. Details.
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