COVE Sailing Club is getting ready to host their biggest fundraiser to date, to help raise money towards a new clubhouse.

Organisers are hoping that their Casino Royale Gala Evening tomorrow will raise over £5,000 which they can put towards a new clubhouse.

The current clubhouse consists of portacabins which were put together over 30 years ago as a temporary measure but due to the deterioration of the structure, a replacement clubhouse is needed.

Members of the club and volunteers are now actively raising funds to build a new on which is expected to cost around £250,000.

The clubhouse is an important feature of the club and is not only used by members but by other group in the community and further afield.

Sailors from Aldeburgh make their way to the club for a weeks racing with their Loch Longs along Cove Loch Longs. The club is also used by Brownies, the Photography Club and the youth Cafe, who use the facilities. The RNLI hold functions and bookings are taken for private functions, parties and weddings.

The current club membership stands at around 213 people including a cadet section. The cadet section involves 38 youngsters being introduced to basic seamanship and sailing skills.

The club is also used for a variety of events including the Burns Supper, which is open to the community and Push the Boat Out, which is now an annual event, sees the club open its doors to the public for taster sessions in sports.

Arlene McNeilage, senior instructor at the club, said: "Our new building would accommodate our sailors and cadets better with proper changing facilities and showers.

"It would bring more usage over the winter months also. Another asset for the wider community to use. Our fundraising is ongoing and there are exciting times ahead."

The Casino Royale black tie Gala, will be held in the Rosslea Hall in Rhu tomorrow, Friday, March 17 and will feature a red carpet with fizz on arrival followed by a tree course dinner and a glass of wine.

There will be a live auction by Roo Irving, a silent auction, a raffle, a casino, a disco by a celebrity DJ and a photo booth for people to remember the night.

Marianne McNeilage, who is on the fundraising committee, said: "Your

attendance will help accelerate the construction to get the doors open as soon as possible

for use by our members and the broader Community.

"You may have family or Sailing connections in the area, or be an outdoor enthusiast, or

what ever your reason, may we offer you a very warm welcome."

Tickets for the event are priced at £60 per person. People can also get involved by donating a raffle item or an auction prize.