Upgrade of the grounds of a Greenock boat club proved plain sailing thanks to the help of hard-working members

The Royal West of Scotland Amateur Boat Club on The Esplanade have been working tirelessly over summer to improve the space around their clubhouse, to turn it into a more welcoming social area.

Before Covid-19, the clubhouse served as a base for members to come together, however it is now only able to open a few hours a week.

Club members have enjoyed mucking in to retain a sense of togetherness during the pandemic.

By coming together under the leadership of the first female vice president, Heather Scott, the volunteer task force transformed the club's grounds.

A donation from Greenock's The Paint Shed was put to use to whitewash the walls behind the clubhouse.

Brand new benches and picnic tables have been installed as an attractive place for members and their families to congregate.

The outdoor space can accommodate 30 people while socially distanced and there are also plans to install a barbecue.

Secretary Joe Heffernan said: "We have been working hard to improve the outdoor space around our clubhouse.

"In these Covid times it is important to get outside and it is expected that the improvements being made will encourage our members and their families to do this.

"These improvements are also providing a space for families to get together outside when they may not have adequate space at home.

"Passers-by along the Esplanade have commented on how good this area is beginning to look."

The project has also had a positive spin-off effect.

Joe said: "There have even been a few people who have taken out membership when they have seen how nice the area is and met some of our friendly current club members."

The next stage of the club’s plans will see work carried out on the beach area on the waterside of the clubhouse, near the boathouse.

This will become another area at the Royal West where people can gather outside to enjoy the stunning scenery and good company.

Joe said: "It is expected that the work will be completed by the end of September."

"We are very grateful for the voluntary efforts of our members in doing this work and in particular wish to acknowledge Derek MacFeate who put us in contact with The Paint Shed who then kindly donated paint and supplies."