SUMMER, such as it has been, is on its last legs and on Windermere dinghy sailors, except the hardy few, are beginning to think about the autumn lay-up, but that does not mean an end to sailing on the lake.

For it is in the harder winter conditions that cruisers, with their drier ride and welcoming cabin for a break from the worst weather, come into their own.

Last month the bigger boats were given a chance of a shakedown event for the Windermere Cruising Association's winter series at the Maiden Marine Beneteau Regatta, held on Windermere's north lake.

A total of 35 boats took part, which augurs well for the size of fleets over the coming months as they contest 11 rounds, seven to count, in the series starting on November 3.