Explorers News

The Martin Oates Memorial Fund

This was set up in about 1995 in memory of Martin Oates. Martin was an unusual character. He eschewed the professional life, or rat race, and lived on a boat in Suffolk. He worked in a boatyard, until that ceased, and then worked as a chef in a local restaurant.

When coming back on his bike one night, in a storm, he hit the back of a lorry and tragically died at the age of 25.

One of his greatest pleasures in life was coming on Explorers.

The fund is there for people with means to contribute to, so that people without or on reduced means can have some or all of their fee paid. This must be the only internet site actually offering money!

Since the fund was started, the amount coming in has exceeded the demand, and the fund therefore built up a substantial surplus. Also, due to good stewardship, Nicki's phenomenal ability to victual a boat at minimum cost and maximum quantity and quality, and a few 'good' years with no breakages or major expenditure, the sailing account too has found itself with an 'embarassment de richesse'. As money sitting in an account with no forseeable use is completely pointless, £2000 has been donated to 'Fellowship Afloat'. This is a Christian sailing organisation based in Essex which encourages disadvantaged and disabled people into development through sailing. So far I have received a most grateful acknowledgement. I have asked that, if they could, that in some way Martin's name is commemorated, and the indication is that they will try to find a way of doing that.

If you wish to contribute, please do so on the booking form.

If you wish to apply for help with your Explorers fee, please apply to me, Henry Ruddock, Commodore, Explorers, 7 Herbert Road, Sheffield S7 1RL, UK.