Westaway Sails, a Devon-based sailmaker specialising in racing, traditional and cruising sails, is celebrating its 55th anniversary.
For all these years the company has proudly produced British-made sails in-house, blending craftsmanship with innovation to serve sailors across the UK and beyond. Since 1971, Westaway has built a reputation for durable, high-performing sails trusted by cruising families, racing sailors and some of Britain’s most iconic sailors.
From their early days Westaway earned respect as a loft dedicated to quality and reliability. Their sails have crossed oceans and circumnavigated the globe carried by sailors such as Dame Ellen MacArthur, Sir Robin Knox-Johnston, Sir Chay Blyth and Lisa Clayton. Known for longevity – many lasting over 15 years – Westaway sails have become synonymous with endurance and performance.
Leading this legacy is Royal Torbay Yacht Club’s sailor John Pollard, who took the reins in 2001: “Celebrating 55 years is a remarkable milestone for Westaway Sails. I’m proud to be leading the team these days, working with people who share my passion for quality, innovation and helping sailors get the very best from their sails.”
This sailmaker offers a wide range of sails valued for their robustness, simplicity and long service life qualities that reflect Westaway’s commitment to performance and durability. For over 55 years the loft has been providing not only new sails, but offered full repair, service, washing, removal and refitting of sails, covers and canvas – making their offer to a customer a 360-degree approach.
Beyond technology Westaway values close connections with sailors, having supported fleets, classes and clubs for decades. A dedicated sailor himself, John is a multi-World and European champion in various classes. His SB20 proudly carries the Westaway Sails logo across Europe, Asia and Australia. Sailing has taught John patience, resilience, teamwork and the ability to read changing conditions – lessons that have, perhaps, guided him in leading Westaway Sails to make quick decisions under pressure and balance risk with strategy to keep the company thriving.
“We value quality and service,” he says. “Quick turnaround times and attentive support are what we aim for. From new sails to urgent repairs, we want to keep sailors on the water with minimal disruption.”
The 55th anniversary celebrates not only past achievements, but also the people behind the sails – skilled loft staff, loyal sailors and the wider community. Among them are team members whose dedication spans generations: one of the Westaway’s machinists has been with the company for more than 40 years, while the loft manager began as an apprentice and has proudly served for over 22 years.
In recognition of their contribution to British manufacturing, Westaway Sails have been nominated for the prestigious King’s Award for Enterprise in Manufacturing. The award honours companies that demonstrate exceptional standards in such areas as innovation, sustainability, international trade and the promotion of opportunity.
“To see our work trusted across the UK and around the world is hugely rewarding,” concludes John. “I am excited for the next chapter in our story.”
