The Eagle Wing emigrant ship is reputed to have sailed from Groomsport on the south. shore of Belfast Lough in 1636 with 140 passengers and was the first attempt by Ulster-Scots folks to emigrate to America. At 140 tons, it was larger than any of the boats moored in the harbour now, most of which belong to Cockle Island Boat Club. The harbour at one time also was home to 20 fishing boats and 80 fishermen and the RNLI stationed a lifeboat there from 1857 until 1920. The lifeboat house is now rented by the Cockle Island Boat Club, which is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year, the CIBC 50th anniversary burgee is below.
Mayor of Ards and North Down Council, Councillor Jennifer Gilmore, along with Councillor James Cochran, hosted a Civic Reception in the City Hall to mark the Anniversary. During the reception, Commodore Harry Patterson had the privilege of presenting three of the founding members, Jim Gibb, Willie Wickens, and Jim Howell, with Honorary lifetime memberships of CIBC. Their invaluable contributions and steadfast dedication have been instrumental in keeping the rich legacy alive.
Mayor Jennifer Gilmore with right Commodore Harry Patterson and founding members Jim Gibb, Willie Wickens and Jim Howell Photo: Co Down Spectator
Posting on Facebook Councillor Cochran said “Great to attend the reception held in Bangor City Hall tonight in honour of the 50th Anniversary of Cockle Island Boat Club. My late father was a member of the Club and I have many fond childhood memories sailing back and forth to Portpatrick from Groomsport so it was particularly nice to see the Club recognised”.
Groomsport Harbour is located on the northeast coast of Ireland and immediately inside and on the southern shoreline of Belfast Lough Photo: Amanda McWhinney
CIBC is a relatively small club but certainly pulls its weight with sailing activities. Over 50 races, including offshore races and a regatta, are held from May to September, and club nights are held weekly from October to March. It also claims to be the first boat club to elect a female Commodore when Pat Kerr took the post in 1993.
Councillor James Cochrane who proposed the reception for Cockle Island Boat Club and the Mayor Jennifer Gilmour here with Pat McAllister Photo: Co Down Spectator
Commodore Harry Patterson remarked, “To be honoured at Bangor City Hall by the Mayor in recognition of our 50 years of existence was a significant milestone for the Cockle Island Boat Club. Recognising the three founding members added a fitting touch to the occasion, marking their contribution to the club's legacy”.
CIBC sail measuring in the Cockle Island Boathouse
