RESIDENTS took to the water for the first time at a successful open day event.

The Harlow Blackwater Sailing Club in Maylandsea hosted its annual open day on Saturday.

It was a busy day at the club as visitors enjoyed the sunshine and tried a range of watersports in the creek opposite Osea Island.

Several people took to the water trying kayaking, dinghy sailing, stand-up paddleboarding and windsurfing.

Many visitors tried watersports on the water for the first time at the event.

Lots of people enjoyed trips around the creek on a support boat.

The Blackwater’s emergency and support services were also in attendance.

HM Coastguard at South Woodham Ferrers took along its truck to talk about their work and the RNLI from Mersea pulled alongside the club’s jetty.

The RNLI also set up a souvenir stall inside the clubhouse.

They were followed by a visit from the Essex Police Marine Unit, whose officers explained their role as the “eyes and ears” of the Essex coastline.

The visitors also enjoyed burgers, homemade cakes and real ale and the club saw many new members signing up.

The club was formed more than 60 years ago in 1955 by sailors living in Harlow.

The club moved from Harlow Mill Lock to Lawling Creek in 1960, to the land used as an ammunition dump in preparation for D-Day.

It has continued on as a social club which offers a place to race, cruise and sail and explore water sports.

They hold weekly events which include a kayak, paddle board and dinghy cruise to Osea Island, training sessions, competitions and more.

The club offers mooring facilities, winter storage and has boats and equipment which can be borrowed by members.

HBSC publicity officer John Wilmott said: “It was a really enjoyable day. We signed up a number of new members, including families, couples and singles.

“It was good to see young people in particular getting out on the water and away from their screens.

“We’re always happy to show anyone who’s interested around the club and introduce them to the various watersports we offer.”