There cannot be too many people who know Norfolk's waterways better than John Redding.

The 92-year-old has been sailing the rivers, broads and coastline of East Anglia longer than many people have been alive, and he still enjoys getting out on the water.

And now the Northern Rivers Sailing Club (NRSC) have honoured Mr Redding, who lives in Wroxham, by making him a life member in thanks for the 34 years he has been a club member.

Mark Collins, the club's commodore, said: "John is an inspiration to our club. We believe he is the oldest sailor still racing in Norfolk, regularly taking the helm in our summer programme. 

"For many years he led our two-week cruise around the East Anglian coast. John is known as the best navigator in the club."

The NRSC also presented Mr Redding with the Bavaria Cup for exceptional service, and named a VIP mooring space at its clubhouse for him. 

Mr Redding said: “I was surprised and delighted by the presentation. The Northern Rivers Sailing Club and its members continue to be a very important part of my life.”

Mr Redding is just as at home in the air as on the waves. He is a former RAF squadron leader, and piloted a Vickers VC10 airliner for passengers including the Royal Family and prime ministers. 

Eastern Daily Press: John Redding on a sailing boatJohn Redding on a sailing boat (Image: Northern Rivers Sailing Club)

Mr Redding flew Queen Elizabeth II on a state visit to the USA in 1976, during the 200th anniversary of American independence.

 

Eastern Daily Press: NRSC commodore, Dr Mark CollinsNRSC commodore, Dr Mark Collins (Image: Michael Sparrow)

Mr Collins said that while he used to command the skies, he now commands the waves. 

He said: "Certainly, his RAF days helped him do that. In the pre-GPS times, when it was chart work and finger in the air to check the weather, John was always the leader dodging sandbanks down the east coast.

“He is looked at as one of the grandfathers of the club, he is the go-to person for racing tactics and the weather - he even helps at work parties too.”

Mr Redding said he had once tried to 'slow down' and brought a motor-powered boat - but he was soon bored and returned to his love of sailing craft.

Eastern Daily Press: John Redding being presented with a wooden sign for his own personal mooring at the NRSC clubhouse, (from left) Jeff Harteveldt, John Redding, Dr Mark Collins (Commodore), David ReeveJohn Redding being presented with a wooden sign for his own personal mooring at the NRSC clubhouse, (from left) Jeff Harteveldt, John Redding, Dr Mark Collins (Commodore), David Reeve (Image: Northern Rivers Sailing Club)

Mr Redding is also known for his warm nature, helping his neighbours in Wroxham by picking up shopping and taking on other tasks he is asked to do.