PARKSTONE Yacht Club will open its doors to the public later this month as part of the Royal Yachting Association’s (RYA) Push the Boat Out initiative.

Existing sailors and newcomers are encouraged to call into Parkstone’s Pearce Avenue headquarters on Sunday, May 18 to gain an experience life on the water as well as finding out more about the club.

It will mark the third year of the RYA’s quest to generate greater interest and participation in sailing across the country with a host of coastal and inland clubs taking part.

Visitors to Parkstone will have an opportunity to meet members, ask questions, view the club’s facilities and get afloat in either a dinghy or a cruiser.

Parkstone’s general manager Bill Lauste said: “We are very proud of our club, it is a thriving community of people who like messing about in boats.

“We have something for everyone, adults and children alike and the open day is a great opportunity for us to show potential new members what we’re all about.

“There will be a full programme of adult dinghy racing, a vibrant youth section of around 300 children and an active cruising section with a wide range of members’ boats that cruise far and wide, mostly along the south coast.”

The open day begins at 1.30pm and runs until 4.30pm. More information is available by emailing: gm@parkstoneyc.co.uk.