Open Day 2018 – An unexpected success!

Despite that fact that this year’s Open Day plans were blown apart by the weather and hindered by red boards declaring it too dangerous to take beginners out on the water, members rallied and delivered one of the most successful events we have ever staged as volunteers secured 15 course bookings and took memberships on the day.

Adventure Dolphin, Open Day Organiser, Ed Edwards said: “The odds were against us. The weather forecast for the week predicted yet more rain and we were faced with the prospect of cancelling. Our marketing had attracted over 200 bookings (a first!) and while we didn’t want to lose those people’s support, we felt that it would be unfair to encourage them to come along, only to be disappointed.

“Discussions amongst the operations team (Seneschal) resulted in a compromise, so we emailed all visitors to inform them that we were unable to facilitate water-based activities, but that we still had plenty to see and do. Much to our delight 90 people joined us and a very productive and enjoyable day was had by all.

“So, I would like to thank all the volunteers who helped on the day and made our visitors feel so welcome. A range of activities including climbing, conversations about different boats, paddling machines, play boating and moving water skills demos, videos, books, backwoods fire lighting, use of Kelly kettles (with marshmallows and hot chocolate) were provided and our catering team did a brilliant job at keeping everyone going.”

Ed added: “There were lots of highlights on the day, but the way our volunteers interacted with visitors and the booking-in system really stood out, and the best picture goes to the children in the open canoe in the puddle just outside the building – it created the biggest smiles! Thank you to everyone involved.”