The Courier & Advertiser (Perth and Perthshire Edition)
Skiff fans prepare to launch rowing vessel at Loch Tay.
VOLUNTEERS: Loch Tay locals have pulled together to build own boat
Loch Tay volunteers are putting the finishing touches to the first inland “coastal rowing” skiff in Perthshire.
More than 40 members of the Loch Tay Skiff Club have been sanding, gluing and shaping the boat in a local garage since autumn last year.
Club convener Linda Cracknell said working on the boat had brought people living around the loch together.
She said: “Not to be outdone by living inland, local people formed the Loch Tay skiff club a year ago in order to join the rapidly growing community of coastal rowers in Scotland.
“Even without its own boat, the club has already brought together more than 40 people with an interest in boatbuilding and open-water rowing.
“The club purchased a kit and began building its first 19 foot ‘St Ayles’ skiff last year. Members come together, learn new skills and make new friends.
“We will make a bridge in Loch Tay’s history by bringing human-propelled boats to cross local waters again as well as participating in Scottish Coastal Rowing Association events on the coast.”
Club members recently hosted local MSP and deputy first minister John Swinney, who has been following the club’s progress since work began.
He said: “This is a commendable local project that has taken a considerable amount of dedication, skill and community spirit to bring to fruition.
“I was struck by the intricate design of the skiff, and the long hours of work.
“I was excited to hear of the group’s plans for the future, and I look forward to meeting with the members once more upon completion of the skiff.”
The club will hold its second AGM on Saturday April 13 at the Kenmore Pavilion at 5pm.
“This will be a great opportunity for anyone interested to have a go at rowing in the skiff of a visiting club from midday onwards, meeting at the Kenmore Club jetty,” Linda added.
Coastal rowing – using the distinctive St Ayles skiff – began in Fife and is increasingly popular in towns and villages, such as Anstruther, Broughty Ferry and Wormit.
The Loch Tay Skiff Club are the first to bring the sport inland in central Scotland to join boats on Loch Awe in Argyll and in Strathpeffer.
“This project has taken a considerable amount of dedication, skill and community spirit to bring to fruition. I was excited to hear of the group’s plans for the future.
DEPUTY FIRST MINISTER JOHN SWINNEY