Islington Boat Club, the only water based activity centre in the borough, launched a fleet of 11 new sailing boats last Thursday.
The boats, costing a total of £15,000 were gifted to the club by development company Mount Anvil, the group behind ‘The Eagle’, a luxury apartment block currently under construction on City Road overlooking the basin used by the club.
Amanda Corcoran, Islington Boat Club’s Development Officer said: “Without Kevin, from Mount Anvil, who gave us the money to purchase the sailing boats this wouldn’t have been able to happen.”
The boats will add a new activity to the long list already offered by the club which includes kayaking, canoeing, power boating and bell boating.
Young people from the area can also take part in art and self-defence classes off the water.
Theresa Debono, the Mayor of Islington, cut the ribbon to officially open the event and launch the fleet.
After officially launching she said: “I’m very pleased that I’ve had the opportunity tonight to celebrate the fantastic work that is being done here and I know you are all very, very enthusiastic.
“I hope you can continue for many, many, many years to come.”
Kevin Payne, a Project Director at Mount Anvil, said: “When I’m standing up on the 36th floor of Lexicon, looking out over the City Road Basin, it’s amazing to see so many young people out sailing.”
