Allan’s 70 years on the waves celebrated

The 83-year-old sailor met with HRH Princess Anne to be presented with the Royal Yachting Association’s Lifetime Award for 70 years’ commitment to the sport.

Mr Williams had been nominated for the award by members of Lytham-based Ribble Sailing Club and received it at a ceremony in London.

He first went out in a sailing dinghy aged 13, but was restricted to sailing lakes for fear of being shot at if he ventured into the sea during war time.

Four years later he became Commodore of Fairhaven Sailing Club and was involved with the RNLI and the local Sea Cadets, helping the cadets grow and build their own headquarters.

He also joined the Ribble Cruising Club and has continued to contribute to all three organisations. In the 1980s he became chairman of the management committee of three local sea cadet units.

Sarah Treseder, RYA Chief Executive says “The RYA is delighted to make this award in recognition of Allan’s enthusiasm, promotion of our sport and many years’ contribution to the North West region’s boating scene.

“RYA winners are an inspiration to us all.”

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