Last Friday (10th June) saw the official opening of the extension to the newly refurbished Whalsay Boating and Sports Club (WBSC).

The project has recently been completed, much to the benefit of the island's community as it increases the versatility of the clubhouse allowing multiple uses of the building.  The development includes the addition of a small extension, the refurbishment of the kitchen and the provision of movable partitions which can be used to subdivide rooms allowing more community group use of the facility

The clubhouse, which is the focal point for all water based activities in Whalsay, was first established in 1982.  It provides a range of facilities for the community including a main hall, bar area, kitchen and preparation area, toilets and a storage area.

Shetland Enterprise and the Community Economic Development (CED) Programme supported the project with funding of £35,000.  Other agencies and external funders have worked in partnership with the local enterprise company on the project which is hoped will increase the confidence in an area hit by the decline in the fishing industry.  Shetland Islands Council contributed £40,001. 

The decommissioning of boats in the whitefish sector has had a significant impact on jobs and life in the island.  Katrina Wiseman, development manager with Shetland Enterprise, said: "This project has provided a morale boost for the community.  It will hopefully help retain population in the island by enhancing the community facilities, making it a better place to live and work." 

Events and activities that have taken place in the past include meetings of sports groups, fire brigade training, provision of facilities for people on visiting yachts, food nights, sporting competitions, music events, fund raising events for community groups and public meetings.

Margie Pearson, secretary of the committee who run the club, said: "The clubhouse is used by so many different people for such varied reasons that we felt we could make better use of the facility by carrying out this modernisation and refurbishment.  We are very grateful to all the funders and individuals who have assisted us along the way - the new look clubhouse is going to be a hugely important asset for the whole community and we hope the local community will support and use the facility to its full potential."