David Grainger - Elder Gaffer
On Friday 11th February 2022, David was presented with his Elder Gaffer pennant, following his appointment by the National Committee. It is a rare award, given to members who have given long and meritorious service to the OGA and it is the first such award presented to a Bristol Channel member. At a special lunch at the Ferryside Inn at Neyland, Milford Haven David and his wife Anne were special guests, although they were unaware of that until national OGA President Patrick Vyvyan-Robinson stepped forward to make the award! In the history of the Bristol Channel Area, no-one has deserved it more.
Fourteen gaffers sat down to a splendid lunch in convivial company overlooking the Haven on what was possibly the only sunny day in February to date. Simply Splendid!
A Gaffer Day Out
The Gaffers came from far and wide,
All with a common secret to hide.
A special lunch
For this friendly bunch,
In the Ferry House Inn, by the Haven side.
The occasion was a presentation,
To a sailor who’s a yachting sensation.
David Grainger
Faced many a danger
In his boat with no mechanisation.
Before the puds, the secret was out.
What a surprise for this sailor devout!
A pennant special
For his trusty vessel.
A Gaffer Elder there was no doubt.
Now David is such a soft-spoken gent,
With sailing knowledge from many years spent
On sea and river,
Where others would quiver,
Tells zoom stories of amazing content.
With pride and much appreciation,
Sad to leave this beautiful location.
The Gaffers dispersed,
Their Elder a first
For their Channel Old Gaffers ‘sociation.
