PBO reader Richard Perks is celebrating after winning a year’s free berthing in the first competition he’s ever entered.

Richard now has the choice of keeping his 6.8m (22ft) powerboat at Conwy or Deganwy marinas and is delighted that the marina staff are being so helpful in aiding his decision.

Area manager for Quay Marinas, Jon Roberts, presented Richard with his prize last Saturday at the All Wales Boat Show.

Richard, who has a Beneteau Antares 68, said his berthing at Port Dinorwic Marina is due to run out in September and he will be taking up his new berth from then.

He said: ‘It’s the first time I’ve ever entered a competition. I’m dead chuffed, really pleased to have won it.

‘I would like to thank Jon Roberts the area manager for Quay Marinas.

‘After PBO informed me I called Jon to make contact and find out about the prize.

‘I was delighted by his response, he was very helpful and suggested that I bring my boat around for a week so I could try out both marinas and decide which one I would like to use.

‘I did just that and found the whole team friendly and helpful from the initial channel 80 call on arrival through to departure a few days later.

‘I was presented with the prize last Saturday, 27 July, during the All Wales Boat Show and although Jon was clearly busy with everything that was happening, he found time for a chat and to make the presentation.

‘All in all a thoroughly enjoyable experience. My thanks to Jon, his team and Quay Marinas!’

Top prize

Jon said: ‘We offered the year’s berthing prize through PBO to coincide with the All Wales Boat Show.

‘Richard was absolutely delighted to win it and we also gave 10 runners up short-stay free berthing as well – we had three or four of those guys come during the show.’

He added: ‘The new All Wales Boat Show went well for a first year event.

‘We were really pleased with the weather, the forecast threatened rain but it held off and every day we had fantastic blue skies.

‘The show coincided with the River Festival so it was really a busy event.’

Picture: Jon Roberts the area manager for Quay Marinas presents PBO competition winner Richard Perks with his year’s free berthing prize. Credit: Mike Dean (Eye Imagery)