• There is a range of Avon yachting clothing available (see below). While extremely functional the garments are still smart, are supple for greater comfort and they can be dry cleaned. Lightweight and medium weight garments are available and colours are orange and blue. Features include flexible elasticated nylon wrist seals designed for maximum protection and comfort without chafe.

The cut of all garments allows freedom of movement while still maintaining a seamanlike appearance.

• A completely new product line from the Avon Inflatables Division is a range of lifejackets which made its debut at this year's Boat Show. Three versions of the basic design are available: air; air/foam; air/full CO.,. The jackets conform to British Standard No. 3595 and are manufactured from hardwearing, rot-resistant proofed nylon fabric, coloured safety orange to enable the wearer to be spotted easily. Picture (right) shows the air/foam jacket.

Avon yachting clothing • RNLI continues to benefit directly from the sale of Schermuly distress signals. The company is passing to the RNLI a percentage of all profits made from sales of their special yacht packs. The Schermuly waterproof packs, which contain ready-made sets of distress signals, are available in four sizes, each meeting the requirements of various types of craft—from dinghy to ocean-going cruiser. To promote the scheme every Schermuly yacht pack is labelled with a facsimile RNLI flag.

Last season the RNLI received a cheque for £700.

• Dycem Plastics, of Bristol, produce a free-hand tray which not only has a special handle, but the tray itself is also coated with a non-slip material.

These features enable a fully laden tray to be carried up and down stairs, leaving the other hand completely free. Should, however, the carrier trip, tilt or otherwise place the tray in other than the perpendicular position the plates or glasses, etc., will grip for far longer than normal gloss trays. Ideal for catering on board ship..