News - 2017

14:14 Sunday 30 Jul 2017 Sue Pelling/LCWSun shines on families enjoying the thrills of Family Day

Theodore and Cassias Ansell in pirate heaven – photo Tom Gruitt/LCW

While families enjoy the fresh winds on the Solent today, back on shore families are making the most of the activities running throughout town.

One of the most popular events is the TNG Swiss Watches ‘dress up as pirate’ instagram competition for youngsters along Cowes Parade. While threading our way through the crowds making the most of the sparkling sunshine, we caught up with the Ansell family – Michelle, PJ, and sons Theodore (7) and Cassius (3). On the TNG stand, team Ansell (the kiddies anyway) were aboard the black, TNG-themed Optimist having their photo taken in pirate outfits. The idea is to post the photo on TNG’s instagram account and hope to win one of daily prizes on offer, including a stylish watch.

Chatting to young Theo, it was apparent who was in charge: “It is good to be a pirate but the best fun of all was trying to push Cassius, my brother, off the boat. Actually, I do sail already. I was on my own Optimist yesterday.

“I really enjoy family day because it is fun and there are lots of things for children to do. We are now looking forward to the treasure hunt. So far, we’ve not found any clues because we’ve been having too much fun dressing up.”

Michelle Ansell (mum) said it is a great opportunity for families:  “We are here trying to engage the kids in what we do and love. We already sail but it is nice to have the opportunity to wander around with the kids and have fun.”

Families are also enjoying learning about the RNLI and making the most of the ‘open house’ guided tours of the centre. Danny Mazlun , who is a member of the face to face team at the RNLI said the open event has been really worthwhile. “We have been giving out educational advice on how to keep safe on our beaches. Family Day is a great opportunity to showcase everything we do, here at the RNLI.”

Ian and Amy Yeates and their two children, Amelia, and Alistair, are on the Isle of Wight on holiday and visited Cowes today especially for Family Day.

“We are not a sailing family but we’re on holiday at St Helens and thought as it was Family Day, this was the best day to come.

“We are hoping one day the children will want to take up sailing but in the meantime they are enjoying the shore-based side of sailing.”