LYME Regis Sailing Club recognised its star performers at their annual dinner and prize-giving evening.

Retiring Commodore David Beer welcomed 80 members to the event, which was staged at Lyme Regis Golf Club.

Mayor Sally Holman, mayoress Jane Whittington, world champion sailor Chris Turner and wife Kathryn were among Beer’s guests to attend.

Turner, who grew up in Lyme, is well known to members as he returns regularly to the club.

His first boat building business was launched in Coombe Street and he now runs a successful, innovative enterprise from Newcastle in a highly-competitive market.

Turner is the current Flying 15 world champion and he will be vying for a third title next year.

His brother, Jim, has moved to New Zealand and sails in the Americas Cup team.

Holman commended Beer for his commitment to the club and spoke of her 50 years as a member, including watching today’s keen youth members follow in the footsteps of the Turners, Allan Tyler and Tim Parsons.

Awards were presented by Jerry Rook, the incoming commodore, and Allan and Chrissey Tyler once again collected several trophies, as did Tony Fastnedge, with Rob and Margaret Wiscombe winning the majority of cruiser cups.

Beer awarded the coveted Sports-man’s Trophy to Hilton Davis for liaison and corporate membership administration as well as reorganising the bar management.

It was a very popular evening with sailors commenting that it was the most enjoyable for several years.

Fern Cottis, organiser of the event, was presented with a bouquet while her husband, Alan, was the MC.