New Lieutenant Governor jumps on board Wetwheels Jersey

Friday 14 April 2017

An initiative that helps disabled and disadvantaged Islanders to experience the joy of being out at sea says it is “honoured” to receive the patronage of the new Lieutenant Governor.

Air Chief Marshal Sir Stephen Dalton has agreed to become a Patron of Wetwheels Jersey, a 9-metre specialist power catamaran.

Built after a nine-month fundraising campaign in 2013, Wetwheels Jersey allows locals who would not otherwise have the opportunity to explore local waters through activities ranging from fishing trips to photography courses – and all for free.

Operated entirely by volunteer skippers, the catamaran takes its name from the original Wetwheels based in Solent and owned by disabled sailor Geoff Holt, a Trustee of the Jersey project.

Pictured: A passenger in a wheelchair takes the helm.

Commenting on the news, Allan Watts, Director of Wetwheels, said that the team were “delighted that His Excellency Air Chief Marshal Sir Stephen Dalton has agreed to become the new patron of Wetwheels Jersey”.

While taking to the waves is top of the agenda, Wetwheels’ key aim is to promote inclusivity – something supported by Sir Stephen Dalton’s predecessor Sir John McColl, who also acted as patron.

“His predecessor Sir John McColl has been extremely supportive of our mission from the very beginning and it is immensely valuable to us to have this continuation in the relationship we have enjoyed with Government House for the past four years,” Mr Watts added. 

Pictured: Former Lieutenant Governor and Patron of Wetwheels Jersey Sir John McColl meets Geoff Holt.

Last year, Wetwheels carried more than 1,000 passengers and hosted more than 40 different groups representing people with disabilities. The team are now hoping that with a new year – and a new patron on deck – they will be able to help even more.

Mr Watts told Express: “2017 promises to be one of our busiest seasons yet, with more trips planned, more passengers enjoying the Wetwheels experience and a new education programme rolling out during the year. We look forward to welcoming Sir Stephen on board soon.”