Sutton-in-Ashfield Sailing Club is vowing to put its “lost” 2014 behind it by making 2015 its most memorable year yet after an outbreak of blue-green algae left local sailors on the shore for three months last summer.

The King’s Mill Reservoir-based club is re-launching with a bumper calendar to get the community back on the water as it bids to make up for lost time.

On Saturday, 9th May, local people can try sailing free at the club’s annual have-a-go open day as part of the national Royal Yachting Association’s (RYA) Push The Boat Out.

The nine-day nationwide festival of sailing and windsurfing introduces newcomers of all ages, abilities and backgrounds to the sport.

The club is also running two RYA Start Sailing courses, the first from 18th May with another in September.

Last year, owners Ashfield District Council suspended all water-based activities on the reservoir because of the outbreak of blue-green algae.

But Phil Dyne, Sutton-in-Ashfield SC commodore, insisted the club was ready to bounce back.

“Everyone is looking forward to getting back on the water this summer,” he said. “The algae had a huge impact on the club. We had to cancel a large part of our summer racing series, a public course, our open event and our participation in Barts Bash.

“However, the most disappointing part was the students that took part in our summer sailing course couldn’t use the new skills they developed or further their development because the water was closed the week after the course concluded.

“But this is now a perfect time to come and try sailing. We have our open day event and we are happy to offer a taster session to anyone, who may be interested in sailing, on any sailing day throughout the year. All they have to do is contact the club.”

The open day runs from 10am to 4pm. People would need warm clothes, soft-soled shoes and a waterproof. There will be fun joyrides for all the family, a dinghy hiking competition and a demonstration of match racing.

Sutton-in-Ashfield SC is a recognised RYA Training Centre meaning it conforms to the highest standards of safety and quality. Phil added: “Many people still have this misconception that sailing is an expensive sport to get into, but a family of four can be members here for just £10.25 a month. If you do one of our courses this qualifies you for membership for the remainder of that year.

“You also don’t need to own your own boat to be a sailor as members can borrow our club boats for as little as £5 for four hours. If you come along to any of our events you will no doubt be pleasantly surprised at what you find sailing clubs to really be like.”

In total, no fewer than six sailing and windsurfing clubs and watersports centres in Nottinghamshire are offering locals free and low cost opportunities to get out on the water and to try a new sport as part RYA Push The Boat Out between 9-17 May.

For full details on how you can get involved at Sutton-in-Ashfield SC this year visit www.suttoninashfieldsailingclub.co.uk or for more information about RYA Push The Boat Out visit www.rya.org.uk/go/ptbo