Harbour Groups, Clubs
and Committees

Harbour Users Advisory Committee

Representatives of the various harbour user groups form a committee which meets to advise and discuss relevant matters with the Commissioners and to provide feedback and information to the various groups. If you have any queries or matters you would like addressed, please approach the appropriate representative who will raise the matter at the next meeting.

Committee Members

Coastal Harbours Forum

For a number of years now the harbours along this coast have been plagued by theft, theft of boat gear, navigational equipment, trailers... but above all it has been the theft of ourboard motors that has most caused concern. A number of measures have been tried at different places with varying amounts of success.

It was felt by The Commissioners that the time has come for a more united and determined approach to tackle this problem. To that end a meeting was called in November and a selection of harbour users and interest groups from along the coast were invited. Thirteen members were invited and twelve came, only one could not attend because he had a Parish Council meeting.

The group, most of whom already knew one another, quickly came together and thorough discussion ensued as to just what role the group might have. It was quickly realised that it could have an important role in many other areas of harbour activity and that while theft was felt to be the most immediate priority, public safety, both afloat and within estuaries, public access, and sea flooding were all thought to be well within such a group's remit.

It was decided, after some debate, that the group should be called the Coastal Harbours Forum and could operate in two ways. Firstly and most importantly as a forum where members or others could bring to the table concerns they felt might benefit from a collective approach and response. Secondly where there were concerns in relation to issues that fell within the province of other authorities or agencies, this group, under the auspices of Wells Harbour Commissioners could approach them with a view to bringing them into any future discussions.

The composition of the CHF is as follows:

Holme	Geoff Needham
Thornham	Robert Howell
Brancaster	Cyril Southerland & John Snelling
Burnham Overy	Peter Beck & Peter Conner
Wells	Robert Smith & Allen Frary
Stiffkey	Laurance Jordan
Morston	Jim Temple & Charlie Ward
Blakeney	Perry Long & Godfrey Sayers (Chair)
National Trust	John Sizer

NCI Coastwatch Wells
Station Manager Dennis Woods, (01328) 711877
Lookout (01328) 710587

A quantum leap in the readiness of the NCI Coastwatch volunteers who operate the lookout above Wells beach has been widely commented on in recent months.

An elected management committee is now responsible for the running of the station and has formalised training and standardised procedures to ensure front-line readiness to assist with emergencies which could occur within sight or sound of the watch position.

Now all recruits and existing volunteers - from all walks of life - recognise and have responded to the need to be properly trained to deal with potential life or death situations.

The 180 degree elevated view from the post enables them to monitor boats entering or leaving Wells Harbour, keep a watchful eye on the scores who enjoy waterborne activities such as windsurfing, and the hundreds of people who use the beach.

Many of the visitors of course may be unaware of the dangers posed by being on places like Bob Hall Sands when the tide turns, or how easily lightweight inflatables can be blown away from shore.

But any of the beach or sea users could suddenly be at risk for wide-ranging reasons.

To support the training the committee have also been improving the appearance of the lookout and upgrading its equipment - which includes radar, VHF radio, a computer-based automatic identification system (AIS) for large shipping, a weather station and a landline phone (01328 710587) - to achieve more efficient working.

The 'sharper' team spirit and attitude have been praised by chairman of the trustees of the National Coastwatch Institution John Gifford - and recognised by much closer liaison, both at work and socially, with other Harbour organisations.

Regular meetings have been introduced for all watchkeepers to attend, which have provided the opportunity for interesting and valuable talks from people whose work and role we need to understand, such as Harbour Master Bob Smith and Lifeboat Coxswain Allen Frary.

With a new recruiting drive producing excellent volunteers Coastwatch Wells is now hoping to extend its on-watch period during the summer months.
      - Dennis Woods, Chairman of the Management Committee

Wells Cruising Association

In the past, Wells Cruising Association has arranged informal local cruises for Wells boaters, the aim being social and to give inexperienced crews the confidence to go further afield in the company of others. Brancaster boats have often joined in and taken part in the competitive 'Golden Cockle Race' which is staged in September. Events such as beach barbecues and supper evenings have also been arranged and members often meet up on Friday evenings at the Sailing Club to discuss and plan trips over the odd beer or two.

Recently, however, interest has diminished and cruises have not been arranged. These events are well worth reviving and if you are interested in joining in or helping to arrange cruises, please contact us. The cruising association representative, Martin Nicholls, can be contacted on (01366) 347831.

Wells Sailing Club
Commodore - Campbell MacCallum

The clubhouse is situated at the East End of the town on the waterfront. Members are pleased to welcome crews of visiting yachts to use the showers and facilities at the clubhouse when open. New members are always welcome... if you'd like to join, please contact the membership secretary John Gibbs on (01603) 419272 or Campbell MacCallum on (01328) 711653.

Wells and District Ski Club
Commodore - Mr J Turrell (02476) 610784
Safety Officer - Mr J Betteridge 07770 900251
Club Secretary - Beverley Gibson 07776 253368

Organises regular water ski-ing and watersports activities off Wells beach.

Windsurfing at Wells

There is presently no windsurfing club at Wells but there is close communication with the beach manager and ski club to ensure mutual and safe co-operation. Ray Page, (01362) 687267, represents windsurfers on the Harbour's Leisure Users Advisory Committee.

Windsurfing permits for the year cost £25 and can be purchased at the Harbour Office.