IT was all aboard for a major celebration recently when Len Baker, one of the founder members of Redditch Sailing Club, marked his 100th birthday.
The Headless Cross resident celebrated the momentous occasion with his wife Margaret, family and friends and via a video link to club members at RSC’s clubhouse at the Arrow Valley Lake.
Club spokesman Greg Croydon said: “Does sailing help to keep you young? – it certainly does in Len’s case and we all wanted to join him in celebrating this wonderful milestone, to wish him all the best and to thank him for his enormous contribution to not just Redditch Sailing Club but to sailing in general.”
Len’s interest in dinghy sailing developed in the late 1940s during his National Service.
Whilst stationed in Greece Len put his spare time to good use, designing and building a small dinghy.
After doing his bit for King and Country he became involved in the establishment of the Wagtail Sailing Club in 1960 which eventually became the Redditch Sailing Club, which opening at Arrow Valley Lake in 1972.
Such was his contribution to the sport of sailing that in 2005 he was honoured with a Royal Yachting Association Community Award which was presented to him by the Princess Royal, Princess Anne.
He continued sailing up until his early 80s and only gave up his post on the club’s management committee five years ago.
Greg added: “Len firmly believes that the inspiration and magic of sailing has helped him to reach this remarkable milestone.”
Redditch Sailing Club continues to thrive and runs regular courses to inspire the next generation of dinghy sailors.
