It's long been a goal of Belfast Kayak Club to establish a storage location at Killyleagh Boatyard located on Strangford Lough, from which to organise sea kayak and open boat paddles in a sheltered environment. Despite numerous attempts to secure funding for this, the club has repeatedly met with delays.

At the club's recent Annual General Meeting in March there was a clear directive from members to prioritise the purchase of a 40ft container and make the most of the upcoming summer season. Killyleagh offers a more sheltered alternative to Groomsport, which is often exposed to strong winds. In addition, having a boat store at Killyleagh that can hold up to 12 sea kayaks and 6 canoes will facilitate more paddles in the stunning scenery of Strangford Lough.

Acting on the members' mandate, a 40-foot container in excellent condition was purchased and installed at Killyleagh Boatyard in early June.

We are now looking to raise £4700 to cover the purchase, delivery and outfitting of the container. Any amount you can donate will help offset the depletion of club funds, which are also required to cover the our EPs' (Experienced Paddlers') REC2 training renewal due this year.

But why stop there! For every £1500 we raise above the initial target of £4700, the club will purchase a 16ft Prospector canoes and all necessary kit.

Whether you are a beginner paddler who will benefit from access to kayaking and open boat hire on the sheltered Strangford Lough, or a seasoned paddler looking to give something back, your donation will be greatly appreciated.

Please help us by sharing this campaign and we look forward to seeing you all at a future paddle from Killyleagh!

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