Cowes Combined Clubs – organisers of Skandia Cowes Week regatta, has appointed a new chairman, John Grandy, replacing Peter Ralls QC who, after serving seven years in this pivotal role, has stood down.

During his chairmanship, Ralls has been instrumental in bringing about some important changes in the development of CCC and of Skandia Cowes Week. These included the development of the new Regatta Centre building in Cowes and the implementation of the new Trinity Landing. Ralls supported all manner of improvements to Skandia Cowes Week, whilst being careful to retain the best traditions of the Week.

Grandy is an RYA qualified National Race Officer and has recently completed his appointment as Rear Commodore Yachting of the Royal Yacht Squadron (RYS) during which he was the Principal Race Officer for the Squadron days in Skandia Cowes Week. Grandy, who lives in Somerset with his wife May, commented: “I am honoured to take up this new challenge and very much look forward to working with Stuart, the team at CCC, and our sponsors, to continue the evolvement of this great regatta.”

Stuart Quarrie, CEO of Cowes Combined Clubs, said: “I have thoroughly enjoyed working with Peter Ralls. I have been continually amazed at how he has managed his time, with a young family and a very full-on job as a leading barrister as well as his role as CCC chairman. He has always given me his full support. However, John is no stranger either! I have worked with him as one of the PROs for the past four years and I am looking forward immensely to working with him as my new Chairman.”