There are clear signs that we at last emerging from the wholesale disruption brought on by the pandemic and can now look forward to life returning to something like normal. The bars, pubs and clubs that have survived the onslaught of enforced closure are now opening their doors again, albeit with strict social distancing measure in place.

Organised activities though have been heavily curtailed and one casualty has been the popular Royal Gourock Yacht Club Raft Race which always provides happy pictures for readers. Here we take a look back to previous aquatic fun at the yacht club and hope to see the event return next year.

Pic1:

Teams from across Inverclyde helped bring about a cash boost of more than £4,000 for local charities when they took part in the Royal Gourock Yacht Club 2010 raft race.

In addition to the action on the water, twins Imogen and Daisey made a lovely picture inside the clubhouse as they giggled at each other's painted faces.

Pic2:

Working hard to paddle their robustly constructed craft in a desperate bid for victory didn't stop this salty duo from making a fashion statement as they went. Floppy hats, floral prints and life jackets were the chosen attire for the challenge. This was the first foray into the watery depths for the ladies and they clearly made an impressive sight as they showed the guys how it's done.

Pic3:

Onlookers could have been forgiven for thinking Ursula Andress had returned to re-create her famous beach scene the in the Bond movie Dr No, but the striking beauty emerging form the waves was, in fact, captain of the Ladies and Vicars team Dougie Campbell after they were first over the finish line.

Pic4:

Looking the worse for wear, hopes of reaching the finish were diminishing by the minute for these brave youngsters as their oil drums began to float apart during the rigours of the race.

Wetsuits and life jackets would have come in handy as it looked unlikely the trio would make dry land in one piece!

Pic5;

Flushed with success, the victorious Ladies and Vicars team took time to pose up for this picture as they celebrated their win.

Afterwards, everyone involved enjoyed a warming barbecue under the evening sunshine and went home knowing their comedy antics resulted in a windfall for charities across Inverclyde.