MEMBERSHIP of a Bury-based sailing club could increase at a rate of knots thanks to a successful series of open days.

Elton Sailing Club threw open its clubhouse doors and its 56 acres of water to adults, teenagers and children to give them an insight into the sport.

Over the years, Elton has built up a fine reputation and is now regarded as one of the UK's top dinghy sailing clubs.

The four open days allowed interested members of the public, young and old, to visit the club, enjoy its unrivalled facilities and, more importantly, to have a go at dinghy sailing.

Elton's experienced dinghy sailing members, including qualified Royal Yachting Association instructors, were on hand to take visitors out on to the water in various sizes and class of sailing dinghies. All budding sailors were asked to bring a change of clothing and a pair of flat soled shoes . . . and a smile.

The open days were free and gave a taste of this exciting and often exhilarating sport.

There was plenty of friendly advice available and visitors were able to enjoy the Elton experience, whether as a spectator watching from the club house with its own licensed bar or as a novice sailor out on the water. The club holds the sport's coveted RYA affiliation as a result of its junior sail training initiative.

Elton has groomed top yachting champions including Olympic and round the world yachtsman Lawrie Smith and World Youth Champion Andrew Brooks.

As one of the country's fastest growing water sports, dinghy sailing attracts people of all ages, particularly families, and you don't need to break the bank to get started,.

Elton Sailing Club offers new members a "Buddy" scheme to allow them to get out on to the water without having to buy their own boat immediately.

Club Commodore, Chris McClung said: "Our open days are always really popular and it is a great opportunity for us to show people how easy it is to get into sailing.

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

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