Jane Pelling

[3513SL]

It is with deep sorrow, I announce that my wife Jane passed away 5th November.

Jane will be remembered by many in the National 12 class. It was nearly forty years ago that I met her and in meeting me, she was immediately introduced to the National 12 sailing dinghy. I will always remember taking her for a first sail in my National 12, one sunny afternoon on the River Crouch. She was such a natural in a boat and for me that was the absolute icing on the cake. I could not have been happier. Happiness that stayed with us throughout our lives together.

The National 12 has been an integral part of our lives and it's important I write these few words about Jane. She took part in the open meeting circuit and importantly those wonderful Burton Weeks for many years. Jane was a highly accomplished crew and I am so proud of the fact that she won a championship race before me. Aside from achievements on the water, Jane was a popular figure in the dinghy park and at social events. In later years, Jane spent more time ashore with our three children; Hester, Guy and Freya, who themselves spent much of their growing up in and around the National 12 class.

Paul Pelling

[Steve S]

Paul,
I am sad to hear that Jane has passed away. Our thoughts are with you, Hester, Guy, Freya and the rest of the family. I have fond memories of sailing at 2 Burton weeks (1985 & 1986) with Jane and still remember her first championship race win as it was also my first race win and a special moment that I will always remember. I hoped in some way it may have made up for the scar she got the year before at Tynemouth on the 2nd infamous Tynemouth Tuesday.

Steve Sallis
N3531

[Bomber]

Paul first introduced me to Jane as his new girlfriend and it's been a great joy for me to have been her friend for all these years. I have wonderful memories of Jane, much of those wrapped up in the N12 world. Many times we sailed together and although I was never able to helm her first across the line, being in each other's company, with her sense of fun and mischief, and her gutsy approach, was always a delight. I'm so sad to bid her farewell now, and I share my sorrow and send my thoughts to all her family, and to the N12 community.