Work has started on the first of eight compounds for the sorting and recycling of yacht waste. There will also be four compounds for the disposal of more hazardous waste.

A new waste compactor, which is the key to reducing not only the volume of waste that goes from SYH to landfill, but also the costs of dealing with the problem, is already on site.

Jonathan hopes the whole system should be up and running in early May.

Eight waste compounds are stratigicially located around the Marina, there will be bins for paper, plastics, mixed glass, food and drink cans and cardboard, as well as a general waste bin for non-recyclables (eg galley waste).

Four other waste compounds, in the West Harbour area, at F jetty, in the workshops area and in the main yard (behind Rig Magic, Parker and Kay etc) will have receptacles for paint, batteries and used engine oil as well as non-recyclables.

The whole scheme will have the double benefit of being more environmentally friendly as well as reducing costs, and so helping to keep charges to berth-holders as low as possible.

To gain maximum benefit, the new waste regime will require berth-holders to sort out their waste, so that as much as possible is recycled and as little as possible goes to the compactor, and ultimately to landfill.

Most people are now used to sorting out recyclables for waste disposal at home, and keen to look after the environment, so it is anticipated that SYH residents and visitors alike will have little problem adapting to the new regime!

A magnificent display of daffodils at the entrance to the harbour is a sure sign that spring is well and truly here and the sailing season is getting started - and so far even the weather has been hinting at a great summer ahead.

The credit crunch may be having an impact on the South Coast, where some of the most expensive marinas are finding they have a few empty spaces to fill this season, but at SYH "everything is let," said managing director Jonathan Dyke.

"We are going into the season with the berths all let, and a waiting list, and continuing to receive applications."

In fact he said applications were coming in from people who have previously kept their boats on the South Coast.

"They are looking to get better value for money, as well as to explore a new, exciting and more challenging cruising ground!"

Everything is set for a great sailing season, said Jonathan. Dredging work finished on Sunday April 5, ahead of schedule, and all the pontoons are back in place. Now the focus is on launching "an extensive list" of boats, booked to be in the water over the next few weeks.

The current economic climate may have affected new boat sales, but it seems to be encouraging people to think about refits and improvements for craft already owned - instead of trading up.

"We have got three or four repair projects booked in for next winter already," said Jonathan. He urged anyone considering work after the season to "come and talk to us now."

"Whether you are looking at long term work, or want advice on a DIY project or to consider a joint venture - where we do some of the more skilled work, and the owners do what they feel confident with ­- come and have a coffee and a chat!" he invited.

Chandlery news

Don't forget to use the discount voucher - which qualifies berth holders to a 15 per cent reduction on chandlery items purchased in a single order over the value of £175. It is valid until May 31.