SAILORS braved strong winds on New Brighton marine lake during the New Year bank holiday to part in West Cheshire Sailing Club's annual 'Christmas Pudding' dinghy race.

The race was organised by West Cheshire Sailing Club (WCSC) and took place on Monday, January 2, an event postponed from Boxing Day due to bad weather.

Teams from neighbouring clubs, Wallasey Yacht Club (WYC) and Wallasey Sea Scouts (TS Astute) were invited by the club to compete in the first race of 2012 on the lake.

The New Year's strong winds made the handicap race a thrilling event as 14 different dinghies raced across the start line sailed by crews ranging from 12 to 70 years old.

But the challenging conditions caused problems for even the most experienced sailors and several crews either capsized or had to retire leaving just six boats to complete the course.

The race was eventually won by Ian Ralli (WYC) in a closely fought contest with Tom Gibbons (WCSC) both in Topper dinghies.

Anthony Roberts (WCSC) in an Enterprise followed in third place.

The race results were:

Winner: Ian Ralli ((WYC) in a Topper dinghy.

Second: Tom Gibbons (WCSC) in a Topper dinghy.

Third: Anthony Roberts (WCSC) in an Enterprise dinghy.

Winner Ian Ralli of WYC said: “It was a brilliant race.

"Tom and I were very evenly matched but I was slightly faster and just managed to stay ahead."

Craig Beaufort-Dysart, secretary of WCSC said: "This year's race has been a real success and it's been great to see so many boats willing to brave both the weather and the cold water for our family event.

"Many thanks to everyone who supported the race."

For further information about learning to sail, please email info@westcheshire.org.uk or visit www.westcheshiresailingclub.org.uk