That this House congratulates Babbacombe Corinthian Sailing Club of Torquay on its remarkable 90th anniversary, founded on 22 June 1935 at a meeting on Oddicombe Beach; recognises the vision of its founding officers, including President Mr H Thomas and Commodore Mr W Terry, known fondly as The Admiral; notes the club’s roots in an old fisherman’s hut, whose stone walls still form part of today’s clubhouse; celebrates the club’s continuation of the historic Babbacombe Regatta, first recorded in 1820 and still going strong, with the 2025 event scheduled for 28 and 29 June; pays tribute to the club’s outstanding contribution to UK sailing, nurturing members who have competed at Olympic trials and international championships while maintaining a welcoming space for community sailors; commends the leadership of trustees John Lawton, Neil Spacagna and Dave Homer, and the financial stewardship of Stuart Moon during difficult times; applauds the commitment of current Commodore Adrian Mark in delivering a long-awaited clubhouse redevelopment; further celebrates the tireless dedication of Guy Hester, Principal Instructor, for training hundreds of sailors; further recognises the inspirational work of Josie Coward with the club’s cadets, acknowledged by the Royal Yachting Association and marked by a visit from HRH Princess Anne in 2008; and thanks all past and present officers and volunteers whose devotion has ensured the club’s enduring legacy and bright future at the heart of the Babbacombe community.
