A new sailing boat has arrived in the Blue Toon to help people with mobility issues enjoy the sport.
The Aberdeenshire Sailing Trust secured funding to purchase a green, two sail Hansa 303 boat designed for those with limited or restricted mobility.
It is believed to be the first accessible boat of its kind in the north-east.
The main difference from standard two-seater sailing boats is the heavier plate designed to stay balanced and stable regardless of movement, which makes it easier for people to get in and out of the boat.
It was launched yesterday to the delight of the Dillon family.
Jennifer Dillon’s 12-year-old son Craig has cerebal palsy, but loved his only sailing experience last year.
She said: “He’s a sporty boy at heart, but accessing sports used to be really hard.
“However, with these guys and Grampian Mobility Sports, he’s getting full advantage from what they do.
“Last year Craig tried sailing for the first time with Active Schools. He loved it and the people here are great so I’m glad they’ve got this.”
The principal of Aberdeenshire Sailing Trust, Angie Fraser, was equally as excited.
She said: “This is the only boat of this type in the north of Scotland. It’s designed for people in wheelchairs or with restricted mobility who want to start sailing.
“We secured various funding for it and for its transportation, so now anyone with a disability in any way can go sailing.
“We’ve been planning it for a while and are really excited about it – I can only imagine the feeling for those people to be free when they’re out sailing as they can now go alone or with a friend.
“To celebrate we even have a cake shaped like a Hansa boat.”
Sports officer for disability and inclusion for Aberdeenshire Council Lisa Logie brought her two boys to the launch, one of whom, Harry, has autism.
She said: “It’s fantastic – what a great opportunity for people with disabilities in Aberdeenshire to get to come out and do some sailing.
“What a difference it will make for the community to be inclusive for those who sail.”
