The sad news that Ian McCauley passed away on the 25th August, meant that Sailing for the Disabled lost one of its longest standing members.
Ian McAuley had a relationship with SftD for more than 20 years, first as a passionate volunteer, and then latterly as an enabled member, revelling in the feel of the wind on his face, and the sea salt in his hair. Upon his retirement from work, and through applying his extensive wit, charm and insight, Ian was able to contribute to our charity by taking on a Committee position. This was almost immediately turned into a leadership position, as he supported then Chairman Rodger Clague, as vice-Chair. The following year Ian stepped up to the role of Chairman, with Rodger and then Terry (Hopkins) supporting him during the 2 years that he held the post.
It was during this time that the charity invested in our current vessel (POM III), taking the project from fledgling idea to delivered vessel. Whilst this is the stand-out legacy that Ian leaves us with, critically it is his kindness, professionalism, reason, calmness, and ability to make people ‘feel at home’ , that will be remembered by those who knew him, worked with him, and laughed with him.
“He was a real gentleman and was very diligent in his role as chairman. Sailed with him often and he was always good company even during the last few years of his illness! A good man gone” – Rodger Clague