ALISON Wheeler has received a Royal Yachting Association community award for her impressive contribution to sailing at grass roots level.

A dinghy enthusiast who cut her teeth in Poole Harbour in her formative years, Wheeler started the East Dorset Sailing Club Pirates in 2008 with the aim of introducing youngsters to the sport.

For the past 10 years, Pirates flags have flown every other weekend at the club during the sailing season, as youngsters learn the basics from Wheeler in a variety of dinghies, including toppers, picos and optimists.

Wheeler ensures the children learn how to tack, gybe and right a capsized dinghy and one of her early Pirates is now a Team GB youth international.

Not content with setting up a Pirates section at the club, the retired physiotherapist added novices and improvers classes for adults and teenagers.

She will be presented with her award at a special RYA luncheon in London next month.

In the meantime, Wheeler will be on hand to welcome potential new members to East Dorset Sailing Club at their Bart’s Bash charity event on Sunday.

Those who attend will sail for fun and raise money for the Andrew Simpson Sailing Foundation. Further details can be obtained by visiting eastdorsetsailingclub.co.uk.