Pop Up Tender Rally - 3
A classical ‘Mediterranean’ evening with calm seas, clear skies and not a breath of wind with temperatures at 26c or so was the setting for a fabulous Pop-Up Tender Rally to The Crate at Trafalgar Wharf.
Moose calls by Sarah of Iapetus gathered the flock in to await the lock opening. 8 tenders were signed up but 10 actually locked in at 18:10 ,together with four 40 ‘ or so yachts and motor 
yachts , to create a record 14 boat lock out for Port Solent. And very cosy it was too. Malcolm and Illona played music onboard their tender as we awaited the lock out which gave a marvellous and clubby atmosphere in the lock. Photo’s we’re taken from well wishers on the dock side and we were ,as ever , waived on our collective way.
On a near high and rising high tide we all made passage in fine order to the inner harbour at Trafalgar where we soon hopped off into the bar and settled in to fine views with great company, watching the last few boats being lifted out for the dry stack. Always an amazing sight to see the two truly giant fork lifts do their stuff over the top of the bar at The Crate.
A total of 45 members enjoyed the terrific food from the Indian Truck and the perfectly toned live music. The warm night cuddled us all into a sense of well-being and comradeship. Tales of the excellent mid week rally to Bembridge, led by newbies Richard and Carole / Thomas Hardy to rally leadership roles , with notes of new members signing up abounding.
It is marvellous to have so many of our Social Members join in the PUTR’s. Many more attended than had originally signed up. Simply great stuff.
With Luke being reluctant to close the bar as the atmosphere was just magic, finally, and with the help of more Moose calls by Sarah, the tenders were organised for our stately return back to Port Solent at 10:15. Colin, the excellent lock keeper, took great care of us all and all tenders returned to their mother ships in fine order.
Thank you at all attending - too many to mention here. You made a really great night.
If you’d like to help and become a PUTR leader just contact me on 07850 456654 or John@mylifemoments.co.uk. It is simply just the best fun and it’s always great to give something back to our wonderful club.
John Heaton / Sarah Corrigan