A year or so back I realised that I was wearing the boat’s sails out. She had a new set from W-Sails of Leigh-on-Sea when she was 21. That was 12-13 year ago. So, I cast about and mused on where to get these done. W-Sails was closing down and not into ‘big’ stuff. Our dinghy sails were made by Wilkinson’s of Conyer and I had been into the loft which some years ago moved to Faversham up opposite Front Brents.

So, it was arranged that we would sail up to Faversham and stay alongside the wharf there whilst the sails were measured and other checks made by the sail maker. We then spent a further few days alongside, soaking up the atmosphere of Faversham and enjoying its offerings.

Whimbel up by Wilkinson’s sail loft, Faversham in early August.

During our summer cruising the quote winged its way via the internet with a 10% autumn offer. We were in Limehouse Basin by then. After a couple of questions, the deal was done and the deposit paid – ah the wonders of internet banking!

Well time travelled on. I wasn’t expecting the sails until the New Year, but Alan, the sail maker and his machinist found ‘time on their hands’ I was told – bad sign or good sign! They were ready for collection some two weeks ago, so off we jolly went enjoying a pootle around town and along the waterfront to Iron Wharf and coffee. We enjoyed a trip to the Edith May on way back for lunch and a chat with her owners, Geoff and Jane Gransden (busy) too.

Alan showed me the sails and demonstrated the batten pocket design and fitting procedure!

They were soon aboard Whimbrel ready for changing the mainsail, but after an unusually dry autumn it had become autumnal and damp! Eventually the day came and I was able to get the mainsails changed … the day started damp and drizzly, but as the tide slipped away the sun came out, a little!

New mainsail with colour coordinated reef lines to match down hauls.

Tuesday this week just ending, I was able to beetle down to Smallgains Creek and get away. There was no ‘messing about’ setting the mainsail in the creek, not the first time. But the jib was run up and I ghosted out feeling elated!

Whimbrels’ third ever owned jib pulling her out of Smallgains Creek…

The main, when pulling, looks a treat. I’ve some fiddling about to do and await the Mate’s boarding for a run to allow this.I sailed back into the creek on a hard reach to see how the main ‘felt’ and looked hardened in tight. With the jib backing a little on occasions, the main was not flustered…

Sailing past two sisters, Calluna of Dorset and Gypsy – my mooring neighbours.

Next job, test the Genoa…