Tim Cox won Newhaven and Seaford Sailing Club's annual Wine race on handicapped corrected time.

Alan Simmons, from Lancing Sailing Club, was first across the line but Cox took the honours in his Topper in this New Year's Day contest.

The event had been in doubt as the club's inland lake at Piddinghoe was covered with a layer of ice the previous day and it looked likely that this popular race would not take place.

Fortunately, by the time members arrived on the next day the thaw had arrived and the lake was quite sailable, albeit the wind was a little keen.

Race organiser Kay Young had no problem in setting another friendly but interesting course, giving all sailors something to think about.

Eleven boats went to the start line and the force three wind was welcomed despite it adding to the cold conditions. Bill Giles in his Laser was doing really well until he capsized which took away any thoughts of taking the honours.

Simmons was first home but Cox took victory by 30 seconds on handicapped corrected time.

The three Mirrors in the fleet took on their own private battle with an added interest of a small wager. They all sailed single handed which was fairly new to two of them. The third member, Steve Duncan, almost always sails single handed and he took the spoils without too much trouble, completing eight laps to the others six.

Tomorrow the club's next eight race series, the Numbum Series, begins and the winner will receive The Elford Trophy at the end of February. There are six races to count if all eight are completed and the event is open to all local club sailors.

Details can be obtained from Kay Young on 01323 490798 or competitors are welcome just to turn up at Piddinghoe in time to sign on and be ready to start at 11am.

-Peter Phipps