Heybridge Basin (Cannibal Island)

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Heybridge Basin Sailing Association (HBSA)

The Ass'n was formed on a very casual basis around 1970 by sailing enthusiasts (mainly regular visitor sailboat owners) for the odd pursuit race during the height of the summer. It reached it's peak during the late 1970's and early 1980's when as well as the annual 'Le Mans Start' race from the 'Top Pub', and the once a month begining with the 'May Race', there were races on most week-ends throughout the summer for the kids of the village. These races specially for the kids were hotly contested and sometimes even covered long courses such as the 'Round Northey Island' race. There were many trophy's available for these events, which were often presented by the Lock Keepers wife Olga. The Ass'n had it's own burgee to be flown by it's members, many of these were hand made by one of the founder members Louise Crich.

(above) an HBSA pennant mounted on the wall of a bar in 'Jolly Sailor'. Picture taken during an evening session with the Basin Band. Ron Crich on 'Tea Chest', Keith Harman on Harmonica, Tony Collette on 'Jingle Stick'.

(above) some of the Basin Kids boats of the HBSA

(above) 1978. young Philip Polden checking on the boats before the tide.

(above) Clint Swann in his 'Mirror' dinghy.

(above) Typical 'HBSA'. Brian Ash at the bow of 'Alliand II' and Ron Crich at the helm after finishing an HBSA event. Flying the HBSA pennant above an RNLI one. Early 80's.

(above) Rob Burling with his 'Cybele'

(above) Mick Bray with his 'Mystic'.

(above) Nigel Wilmott at the helm of his 'Harnser'