Nusrat Ghani, MP for Sussex Weald, was delighted to join the Mariners of Bewl Charity and 4-time Paralympian, Triple World Champion, Disability Advocate, and now Para World Sailing Manager Hannah Stodel in cutting the ribbon and officially launching a new purpose-built boat designed to provide unfettered access to the water with people with disabilities.
Mariners of Bewl is a registered charity dedicated to providing sailing and boating opportunities for people with and without disabilities. Based at Bewl Water reservoir, the club provides a supportive environment, specialised equipment, and a community of members passionate about recreational benefits of being on the water.
Following the successful fundraiser of over £70,000, the Mariners of Bewl were able to purchase a new special versatile and adaptable V20 Wheelyboat, which will act as the charity’s safety and support boat for their sailing activities. It will also enhance their range of water-based activities that are accessible to everyone, regardless of physical mobility.
Named “Jennie” after Jennie Humm, Mariners of Bewl Founder Member, the Wheelyboat features a step free roll-on roll-off bow ramp and a level deck, allowing wheelchair users to board safely and independently and even have the opportunity to drive the boat from their wheelchair.
The launching ceremony, which took place at Bewl Water on Saturday 25th April 2026, also included an inaugural short trip of the boat, which Nusrat was pleased to join alongside Hannah and a wheelchair user Harry.
Nusrat Ghani said: “I was delighted to join the Mariners of Bewl and 4-time Paralympian and Triple World Champion Hannah Stodel for this important occasion. The benefits of sport are endless, and it is important that we continue breaking down barriers that prevent people with disabilities from engaging with the outdoors and enable them to access the opportunities they deserve. Bewl Water reservoir is such a wonderful asset to our local communities and visitors alike and I would like to take this opportunity to say a huge thank you to everyone who contributed to the fundraiser and made it possible for the new Wheelyboat “Jennie” to be launched and to provide a safe, fun, dignity-first experience to wheelchair users for generations to come.”
Pictured above: Nusrat Ghani MP with Jennie Humm MoB Founder member, Mayor of Tunbridge Wells Cllr David Osborne and Paralympian Hannah Stone
