His chandlery is the only dinghy specialist in the South West, offering everything from nuts and bolts to spars, sails and technical clothing. And he can also provide a service to small keel boat owners.

Blackmore's catchline is "The chandlery which dares to be different" and he says he carries this out in a number of ways. "I started off selling to people I knew, mostly in the Exeter area, " he said. "Now I've had enquiries from deepest Wales, to Scotland and Essex.

I'm really thrilled with the way it's going."

Blackmore - pictured here in his van - takes his van to people's houses, if they live close by, or boat parks, something that is always appreciated. He will also go to different clubs along the South Devon coast, attending their open meetings and nationals:

he already has events at Teignmouth and Sidmouth lined up and is willing to put others in his diary.

Blackmore can be contacted at SailSport on 01392 420043.