ELTON Sailing Club is giving people the chance to try their hand at a new leisure pursuit.

The club, based at Elton Reservoir in Bury, is inviting people of all ages to take to the water for a taste of dinghy sailing at two open days this month.

The first is this Sunday followed by a similar open day on Sunday, May 21. The day is completely free of charge and visitors will be taken for a trial sail on the 56-acre water by qualified sailing instructors in various classes and sizes of dinghy.

Visitors will need to bring a change of clothing and a pair of flat soled shoes.

The club, which is Royal Yachting Association affiliated, has helped develop talent including Olympic and Round The World yachtsman Lawrie Smith and former World Youth Champion Andrew Brooks.

Adrian Brooks, vice-commodore of the club, said: "Our open days are always really popular and it is a great opportunity for us to show people exactly how easy it is to get into sailing.

"It is a wonderful hobby, a sport that's open to everyone, regardless of age or status."

For further information and directions, contact the steward at Elton Sailing Club on (0161) 764 2858.