Greenock Telegraph | News | Big Yin at special launch

Sunday, 27th July, 2008

Published: Tuesday, 20th May, 2008 16:30

Big Yin at special launch

By Claire Amber Young

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KIP VISIT: Comedian Billy Connolly visited Inverkip Marina to launch able2sail yesterday.

Pic by: Kris Cairns

THE Big Yin turned into the RIG Yin yesterday when Billy Connolly visited Inverkip Marina to officially name a yacht in honour of a sailing charity.

Comic Connolly sailed into Inverclyde to name a Bavaria 46 on behalf of the boating organisation, able2sail.

He told the Tele: “I’m absolutely delighted to be involved.

“Getting children involved in sailing is a great idea.

“It always amazes me how much disabled people can do — something like this just proves what kids are capable of.

“I’ve been involved with other projects where disabled kids get into riding — it’s really nice to see them develop and see how it helps

them.

“There are great advances to be made with kids in this area. It’s a very good idea.”

The yacht arrived in Inverkip Harbour on 7 March this year. Volunteers have been undertaking training sessions onboard in preparation for taking disabled children out on voyages in June.

The comic is getting ready to embark on a Irish tour and will be heading off to Limerick tomorrow before travelling to Cork.

But, before he jetted off, he took time to talk about his Inverclyde connections. He said: “I’m very fond of Greenock — I’ve always felt very close to it.

“I worked with Peter MacDougall on Just Another Saturday and have great memories of filming here. I met lots of guys from Greenock when I worked on the Clyde.”

Gerry Campbell, chairperson of able2sail, said: “This has been a great day. The level of involvement from everyone in the community has been wonderful. Everyone has helped make it a great success.

“It’s been wonderful having Billy here — we’re delighted he could make it.”

Invited guests were treated to a lavish champagne reception in the Chartroom after the ceremony and witnessed an amazing flyover by HMS Gannett.

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