Following the conclusion of our Tay Descent appeal, we are delighted to confirm that a total of £350 was raised for Elgin Museum. Our members Charlie Quinnell, Tim Jones and Bruce Watson took on the gruelling course on the river Tay in Scotland in October, being the first coracles to take part in this Scottish Canoe Association event which is now in its fifth year.

Charlie Quinnell kicked off the Society's participation in the event and proposed that monies were raised to support Elgin Museum in restoring their Spey Currach, thought to be the oldest coracle in existence and the only historic example left of the Scottish craft. Charlie took the challenge one step further - whilst Tim and Bruce tackled the seven mile 'short' course, flowing through rapid waters, Charlie decided to do the 24 mile long full course Andy imported it in a respectable 7 hours 10 minutes. Some 350 paddlers took part in this year's Tay Descent - mostly in canoes and kayaks - with over 60% taking on the full course.

The money raised will be used to restore and preserve the Spey currach and improve its display, to protect it from future damage from the public and where possible improve the visitor information about the boat.