FRENSHAM Pond Sailability has appointed former membership secretary Mark Greenwood as its new chairman.

Mark, who has been membership secretary for four years and is also a member of Frensham Pond Sailing Club, replaces Sailability’s chairman since 2011, Kate Richardson who left earlier this year to return to her career as a physiotherapist.

On his appointment, Mark said: “It is a great privilege to be asked to be the chairman of Frensham Pond Sailability. Firstly, may I thank Kate Richardson for her exemplary term as chair and for all her achievements during her tenure. Our club is stronger and more inclusive as a result of Kate’s efforts, and as they say Kate will be a ‘tough act to follow’.”

Mark has been around boats from a very early age and grew up in Portsmouth, where his mum and dad converted an ex-Navy 16-foot boat so it could sleep his whole family.

He has subsequently repaired or completed several boats, sail and power, and enjoys working on boats as much as using them.

Mark added: “I looked for Sailability after spinal surgery in 2002 meant I became a fulltime wheelchair user. Like many members, I was happy just to get afloat, but then found the opportunity to develop sailing and then racing skills, and like many of you, Frensham Sailability is now an important part of my life.”

Mark is joined on the management team by his replacement as membership secretary, Ivor Barrett and vice-chairman Bridget Woodhouse, who retains her role co-ordinating schools and groups.

He added the four main themes of his tenure will be governance excellence, securing long-term sustainable funding, maximising potential and building key relationships.

Sailability provides opportunities for people of all ages with disabilities and illnesses to experience and enjoy sailing in a supportive and safe environment. Call 01252 628343 or visit sailfrensham.org.uk.