My Passion with Dave Fletcher: How I set sail for years of fun on the open water

I first caught the sailing bug from my parents but didn't really start my own proper sailing career until I started work.

Back in 1968, I was a first-year apprentice at Forgemasters and the company gave me the chance to attend sea school for a month, which I jumped at.

Since then, my interest has grown and you can find me out on the water most weekends. I've been a member of a few clubs in Sheffield but now belong to Viking Sailing Club and sail at the 120-acre Damflask Reservoir, Hillsborough.

Until 1995, I was part of Ulley Sailing Club and there I met Paul Goodison – the Olympic champion in the Laser Class. Paul's a fantastic sailor and it was great to see him in action. I'm not quite at that level but it's certainly something to work towards.

I like to take an active role in the organisation of the club and am insurance secretary. This means I am responsible for managing insurance policies and similar matters for all the members. It's not as fun as being out on the water but I'm happy to help out in any way I can.

As well as this, I'm the Enterprise Fleet Captain at the club, so I help the other members maintain boat specification, organise open events and generally assist in all club issues.

I also used to be a sailing instructor and still occasionally help out with safety training classes. It's important that everyone who wants to sail is thoroughly briefed in safety because obviously there is an element of danger.

You don't need your own boat because there are plenty of club boats but I have two racing boats – a "Solo" and a larger "Enterprise". Some may say that's extravagant but I get plenty of use out of them and they are two of the best purchases I've ever made.

When not sailing in Sheffield, I like to explore other areas afloat. For example, I spent time sailing down the Humber in a 27-foot UFO which had just competed in the Azores race. I have also sailed out of Bridlington, Filey and Weymouth in Enterprises.

I also count myself very lucky because my other love, my wife, Julie, puts up with me going off sailing every weekend, and even sails herself sometimes.

Sailing is really great fun and a fantastic way of exercising. There are obviously a lot of sports out there, but we are always looking for new members and I would encourage anyone to come along and have a go.