Sue and Richard Jones,

Stromness Marina Visitors

Sue and Richard Jones sailing on Whimbrel in June 2009 recall while in Orkney. “We had a memorable trip all the way from Kent to Orkney but our VHF had given poor reception all the way. On arrival in the beautiful Stromness Marina the local radio man Stuart Walker confirmed we had “aerial problems” up the mast and went for spares.

Contemplating how we were going to deal with our aerial problem, we went off to collect bicycles from the Orkney Cycle Hire man, John Heddle, who happened to be up a ladder repainting his third floor windows.

I asked “You don’t fancy going up a mast do you?” His response surprised and delighted me! “Well, if you can’t find anyone else I’ll give it a try and tick it off my ‘must do’ list”.

With two trips up the mast the job was done with lots of smiles all round. A first for John and also for us!

Our stay in Orkney was a major highlight of a fantastic trip. We spent a week at Stromness Marina (as well as short stays at Westray and Kirkwall). We would recommend Stromness marina to one and all. The sheltered harbour, the wonderful showers (after a week without) and laundry facilities...... FANTASTIC!

We had brilliant weather to add to the friendliness of the people and the fabulous scenery. Not to mention being dive-bombed by the bonxies which added to the entertainment”.

P.S. John Heddle adds, “The side of smoked salmon was wonderful, thank-you Richard & Sue”