Doncaster club in disciplinary action against boozing boaters spotted having 'jolly old time' in lockdown

Strawberry Island Boat Club – which is currently shut during the coronavirus pandemic – has blasted two boaters who gained access to their vessels and then sailed down the River Don to Sprotbrough where they were seen drinking and mixing together, despite strict rules on social distancing.

But the club has taken a dim view of the unauthorised trip and his hit out at the pair who were pictured moored up near Sprotbrough Lock.

One person who witnessed the pair said: “They were having a jolly old time sat on the grass banking with their beers.”

It is understood police visited the boats on Saturday to warn the owners about their behaviour – but the vessels were still there on Sunday.

He added: “While everyone is trying to do the right thing these guys don’t seem to want to.”

Paul Mellors, commodore of the club, which is based in Wheatley, said that the matter was now being dealt with by the club.

He said: Strawberry Island Boat Club is 100% committed to comply with Government directives in relation to coronavirus.

“We have been closed to our members since March 23 with only our steward remaining on site.

“The allotment holders at Strawberry Island – who have special dispensation – gain access across our premises so we cannot physically prevent our members accessing the site.

“Quite right, the Canal and River Trust have instructed that leisure boating should not be taking place during this time and our members are fully aware of this.”

“On Saturday morning I was made aware of four boats moored at Sprotbrough, two of which were from SIBC. By 1pm, we had held a special management meeting via Zoom and disciplinary action has been taken.

“SIBC is in its 50th anniversary year and is very proud of its heritage. Myself and the management committe are fully committed to maintain our exemplary reputation.”