The Allen team were thrilled to be exhibiting in their own right at the Dinghy Show for the first time this year. It was an opportunity for them to show that the business is thriving, and producing the same precision engineered products and performance hardware from their factory in Essex as they have done for more than 50 years.

Saturday was absolutely buzzing and the atmosphere was very upbeat, giving a welcome feeling of optimism. Displayed on the stand was Allen sponsored sailor, Peter Grey’s Scorpion which was totally fitted out with Allen performance hardware and drew much admiration. Pete was able to give much appreciated technical advice and explanation to those enquiring, as was Musto Skiff Allen sponsored sailor, Bruce Spratt.

The day flew by and at around 5.00 the lovely people at Dinghy Sailing Magazine threw a party to launch their new website. The Pusser’s Rum cocktails really packed a punch and got everyone in the mood for more, which was lucky because the equally lovely people at Yachts and Yachting were kind enough to put on a fabulous party in the Palm Court with very noisy live music and very tasty Shepherd Neame Spitfire beer. The Yachts and Yachting crew presented the GP14 with the ‘best boat in show’ trophy.

Sunday was a very much quieter affair, although still upbeat with plenty of visitors. Everyone felt that the response at the Show had been better than expected. We’re all hoping that the sun is going to shine this season and the wind is going to blow (not too much) and that everyone is going to go sailing.

Happy Sailing …