Somehow we managed not to get rained on at SUP Club last night! An understandably small group showing various levels of optimism kept the faith and battled out through the hailshowers, wrapped up suitably warm and dry. And we’re still shocked and stunned to have dodged the bullets for what turned out to be an incredibly pleasant paddle up to Stonham’s Lock from Paper Mill – with an added bit of backcountry exploration at Mill House. Huge thanks again to the Willow Set for hosting us, and the SIx Bells for dinner and drinks after.

Venue: Paper Mill Lock (CM3 4BS / w3w.co/encoded.narrating.switched)
Arrive: by c.6pm (gates close at 6.15pm!)
Launch: after 6.20pm briefing
Finish: c.8.10pm
Level: robust river paddlers

Despite some heavy rainshowers and strong westerly wind on the forecasts today, we’re heading back ‘home’ to the Willow Set at Paper Mill tonight, with huge thanks to the twins for their continued support… Only robust, waterproof paddlers need apply as it might be tough going given the weather – please wrap up warm and dry enough to stay happy!

We’re just planning to go two locks upstream: upwind (and it is looking pretty windy!) to Stonham’s via Mill House and back. The Willow Set are kindly allowing us in out of hours, charging £3 from 5.30pm onwards when you use the password ‘SUPsect’ or flash our logo at the gate. Please get there by c.6pm – don’t be too early and please don’t be late, as the gates are going to lock at 6.15pm then we’re briefing at 6.20, so do make sure you have time to pump up before that…

So, setting up by 6pm at Paper Mill Lock to gather at our ‘training zone’ by the entrance for a 6.20pm briefing ahead of a c.6.25pm launch. We’ll probably be going two locks upstream to Stonham’s and back tonight.

As always, please ensure you are licensed to paddle the river (renewals via www.waterways.org.uk). Everyone licensed, with their own kit (including leash!) who can stand-up paddle confidently is very welcome… But please, if you’re not yet competently steering, stopping and turning, a busy group at SUP Club isn’t the place to learn these essential skills – we offer lessons for that!

After, we’ll be going for dinner and drinks as usual – numbers via a show of hands at the briefing.