Having considered various cockpit tent and awning options and had prices quoted of around £250 to make one I decided that I'd try something more temporary this year to see how much use it got.

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This is the result! It is a heavy gauge (250gm/m) transparent tarpaulin from Bradshaws who advertise in PBO. Many sizes are available but 3m x 2.5m fits fine, as you can see. It is pre-fitted with eyelets and took me just 5 minutes to fit some fastening ropes and cut out a hole for the topping lift. It is re-inforced with an internal rope mesh, has a rope re-inforced hem and being transparent it allows light in and some visibility out.

Price? £16.40 plus £4.99 carriage! Bargain I reckon, even if it's a bit Heath Robinson! And if you want a solid blue or white one it costs even less - £12.70!

Stephen Godber

235/51 "Exodus"