I am in the early stages of organising what we are calling the "Great Birthday Paddle" and I would like to invite you to join us.

Essentially, several of us have identified that we are having what might be called "Milestone Birthdays" this year or next, you know 60, 50, 40, 30, 21st. and we want to celebrate in a suitable fashion. The idea is to
paddle from Letchlade near the source of the Thames to the Club. We are planning for this to be an enjoyable trip open to paddlers of any ability level (as long as they can stay upright for say five days of paddling). We are in the early stages of planning and the trip is open to anyone who wants to join in.

We are currently working out the logistics but are likely to have a support narrow boat to carry gear, provide the cooking facilities, some sleeping berths and transport for the lame, tired and injured. Others can camp and the real lightweights can B&B.

The dates have not been set but May or September in 2007 seem favourite in terms of the weather. Advice from those that have done it before suggest a four night run is about right for maximum enjoyment and minimal punishment

We hope that lots of people join in even if you do not have a milestone birthday. To announce the event now may seem early but it gives us opportunity to time it right for our return to the newly finished clubhouse (once we know when that is likely to be.

If you are interested please sign up on the sheet that will apear soon on the Clubhouse Noticeboard. I am particularly keen to put together a small working group to organise the trip and also engage in drinking etc.

Best wishes

Gary Coulton