GUSTY winds made for challenging racing at Arden’s Defford base.

The annual Icicle Race was followed by a social gathering to celebrate the new year.

Only two keen helms out of five sailors took to the water in unfamiliar Comets with an average wind speed of 19mph going up to around 27mph.

Over four laps, David Stephen beat Stuart Stephen, who did a dry capsize in front of the starter’s box but recovered quickly.

For more details about the club, visit ardensc.org.uk.