Half model of Sir Edward's yacht presented to the Royal Southern YC

by Peta Stuart-Hunt on 26 Jul 2014 The Trustees of the Sir Edward Heath Foundation today presented a half model of Sir Edward's yacht, Morning Cloud 2, to the Royal Southern Yacht Club in Hamble-le-Rice, Hampshire. It is intended as a memento of Britain's most celebrated sailing Prime Minister and of the central role the Club played in his sailing career. The Royal Southern was where Sir Edward and his crews put together their sailing strategies which led to his success in winning, inter alia, the Admiral's Cup in 1971.

The presentation was made to Commodore David Mead by Colonel Gordon MacDougall, a Trustee of the Foundation, in fulfilment of a pledge made by Sir Edward at a dinner given by the Club in his honour in 2004. The presentation was made in the presence of Deputy Lord Lieutenant Geoff Holt, MBE, Deputy Lord Lieutenant of Hampshire. Gordon MacDougall was supported by Bob Hayes, Chairman of the Friends of Arundells which works with the Foundation to ensure that Sir Edward's home, Arundells in Salisbury, is able to remain open to the public in line with the intentions of his will.

In making the presentation, Gordon MacDougall said: 'Sailing was one of the central pleasures and pastimes of Sir Edward's life. Coming late to the sport, his leadership qualities, strong competitive instincts and sense of strategy came to the fore. The Southern was central to his success and the Trustees and the Friends of Arundells are delighted to have worked together in restoring the relationship with the Club. We hope that this model of Morning Cloud 2 will stimulate many happy memories of Sir Edward's involvement and a closer relationship with Arundells where sailing is an important element of what the house has to offer to visitors.'

On behalf of the Royal Southern Yacht Club, Commodore David Mead commented: 'I am delighted to accept this wonderful half model of Morning Cloud 2 on behalf of all the Members of the Royal Southern Yacht Club. Thank you to Gordon, Bob and Giles (Ball) who have made this memorable occasion happen. Colin Hall (Commodore in 2004) was at the dinner when Sir Edward kindly promised a gift from Arundells. He shared many happy times in his company as did many others in this room. May I wish all success to Bob and Giles of the Friends of Arundells and to the Foundation and hope that the house will stay open for the enjoyment of the public for many years to come.'