Our model boat club has about 60 members who sail their boats regularly, three times a week, at Saltwell Park, Gateshead.
A grant was obtained eight or nine years ago, and was used to purchase a portocabin. This is situated next to the lake in Saltwell Park, and houses basic furniture to accommodate the modellers.
Only able bodied people are able to use the cabin, since wheelchair and disabled scooter access is impossible.
The club has recently been granted planning permission for the erection of a 7 x 5 metre timber cabin. This will be located within the small wooded area next to the lake and feature an enlarged paved area for moddelers and the public to mingle. This area will provide easy access for wheelchairs etc, and will allow disabled access into the new cabin.
The club needs this new, enlarged clubhouse to provide improved facilities for existing and new members.
With better facilities, the club can expand its membership, encouraging younger children to experience the hobby, and gain knowledge by interacting with older, experienced and talented model makers.
The club has very limited means of fundraising, and has no chance of raising the estimated £18,000 that would be needed to provide the new facilities. This sum has been pared down to as low as possible, a lot of the labour and work needed will hopefully be provided by the club members.
This is not entirely practical since most members are elderly or infirm. However, we think the project is possible, and the sum required does include for some outside assistance.
With a new clubhouse, we can put on model shows and invite the public to visit and partake in modelling activities. This may generate additional income to help finance the running of the club and thereby to provide an extra feature in Saltwell Park for the benefit of local residents and visitors alike.
We intend to seek additional grant aid for the project but would be grateful for any finance raised to pursue the clubs expansion.