Nick Ardley, Thames estuary ditch-crawler, river, creek and coastal sailor.
Nick Ardley sails the Thames estuary from the Island Yacht Club on Canvey Island, Essex, where he has been based since around 1980. He enjoys his coastal hops immensely, but, it is the rivers and creeks themselves that causes a welling up of a magic within him: so much history abounds around the edges of those waters where much has disappeared. Often, the many waterside industries have left little trace, yet, although some rest in living memory they are now largely forgotten, by most. Nick picks up on some of this and other more distant snippets of historical and topographical interest, weaving them into the web of his tales of sailing the magical ditches around the estuary, with his mate at his side listening...
News
Finesse Yacht Rally nears fruition...
The first ever Finesse yacht rally nears fruition and I am working with the powers to be to give us good weather... The mate and I are getting rather excited about this: it has been a slog to get it all off the ground. It is an event that is long overdue too.
We currently have thirteen Finesse class vessels coming along: a few have had to drop out for personal reasons, but there is space for several more boats to join us. I know you're out there ... if anyone knows of a Finesse owner who doesn't know, drop a hint, please!
Whimbrel beating up towards Pin Mill on a breezy day- picture: David Whitby
During the week I had an email for Ian Downing, once a shipwright with A F Platt Ltd. Ian worked alongside Alan building many of the boats constructed during the 1960s. Ian moved to Hong Kong some years ago and has operated his own business out there. He is currently in the process of moving back to the UK and had intended to be home for the rally; however, sadly he can't make it...
Ian sent me a copy of a local news magazine from Sai Kung, Clearwater Bay, in China's Hong Kong province. (www.saikunk.com) Within is told the story of Hebe Haven YC which is 50 years old this year ... it was formed a year after Alan's first Finesse 21 was launched (hull design by Laurie Harbottel), so, this is rather a coincidence for Ian with his Finesse connections. The yacht club can be visited at their web site: www.hhyc.org.hk
The yacht club might be across the other side of the world, but it seems to operate on familiar lines - although it employs many staff which is the norm for many UK yachting clubs. Great stuff!
At the moment we're awaiting delivery of a bundle of nautical bunting (code flags) to dress ship with...
We currently have thirteen Finesse class vessels coming along: a few have had to drop out for personal reasons, but there is space for several more boats to join us. I know you're out there ... if anyone knows of a Finesse owner who doesn't know, drop a hint, please!
Whimbrel beating up towards Pin Mill on a breezy day- picture: David Whitby
During the week I had an email for Ian Downing, once a shipwright with A F Platt Ltd. Ian worked alongside Alan building many of the boats constructed during the 1960s. Ian moved to Hong Kong some years ago and has operated his own business out there. He is currently in the process of moving back to the UK and had intended to be home for the rally; however, sadly he can't make it...
Ian sent me a copy of a local news magazine from Sai Kung, Clearwater Bay, in China's Hong Kong province. (www.saikunk.com) Within is told the story of Hebe Haven YC which is 50 years old this year ... it was formed a year after Alan's first Finesse 21 was launched (hull design by Laurie Harbottel), so, this is rather a coincidence for Ian with his Finesse connections. The yacht club can be visited at their web site: www.hhyc.org.hk
The yacht club might be across the other side of the world, but it seems to operate on familiar lines - although it employs many staff which is the norm for many UK yachting clubs. Great stuff!
At the moment we're awaiting delivery of a bundle of nautical bunting (code flags) to dress ship with...
Posted on 16 May 2013 by admin
The Mayflower - pilgrim ship, and more
Recently I was in touch with a reporter on the Patriot Ledger, a news paper in Quincy, Mass, USA. He'd not heard of the new Mayflower under construction at the old rail yard in Harwich, Essex - the town where many of the ships' crew hailed, and of course her master, Christopher Jones. The Patriot Ledger had run an article about the c1958 built Mayflower currently under reconstruction at a yard nearby.
The wonders of the web eh!
Amazingly, there then followed a bit on BBC East last Monday evening and a spot on the BBC Essex Ray Clarke breakfast show the following morning, when the project director gave a run down on where the project is and what it was all about.
I wrote a little of this last (late) summer/autumn, wondering why all these organisations didn't have a joint set of rules of engagement or action plans. However, most projects tend to be unique, yet, surely, the ethos of teaching skills to people for either maritime or general work is something that crosses boundaries... Hey ho!
We were supposed to be off afloat this weekend - the early spring BH - but my mate is unwell, so we're shore-bound. We did get out for a sail last Sunday though - the boat was spick and span having had 5 days out of the water to do the bottom, check centre plate wire bond, do pivot bolt and paint the sides ... oh, and finish the decks...
The mate inserting herself beneath Whimbrel's buttocks ... I was hard at it doing the topside preparations!
People kept saying, 'you've not been out long...' as we were about to go back in... Oone of the joys of semi retirement or retirement, I suppose, is time to 'hit' a job and get it done.
The mate, hard at it, applying anti-fouling...
The mate, from beneath Whimbrel's bottom, remarked at the number of craft in our club's yard where little or nothing seemed to have been done since they were lifted out last autumn ... three weeks of good weather and little has changed around the area Whimbrel briefly sat!
We're both looking forward to the planned Finesse Rally on the River Medway in a few weeks time ... it is getting rapidly closer. 18 boats have 'booked' berths for the Chatham part of the meet and I'm hoping all or most of those make it.
Other Finesse owners may join in too ... contact me, however, we may have reached our peak on numbers for the group facility pontoon, but you can book berths in the marina and join us ... move over if space too!
The wonders of the web eh!
Amazingly, there then followed a bit on BBC East last Monday evening and a spot on the BBC Essex Ray Clarke breakfast show the following morning, when the project director gave a run down on where the project is and what it was all about.
I wrote a little of this last (late) summer/autumn, wondering why all these organisations didn't have a joint set of rules of engagement or action plans. However, most projects tend to be unique, yet, surely, the ethos of teaching skills to people for either maritime or general work is something that crosses boundaries... Hey ho!
We were supposed to be off afloat this weekend - the early spring BH - but my mate is unwell, so we're shore-bound. We did get out for a sail last Sunday though - the boat was spick and span having had 5 days out of the water to do the bottom, check centre plate wire bond, do pivot bolt and paint the sides ... oh, and finish the decks...
The mate inserting herself beneath Whimbrel's buttocks ... I was hard at it doing the topside preparations!
People kept saying, 'you've not been out long...' as we were about to go back in... Oone of the joys of semi retirement or retirement, I suppose, is time to 'hit' a job and get it done.
The mate, hard at it, applying anti-fouling...
The mate, from beneath Whimbrel's bottom, remarked at the number of craft in our club's yard where little or nothing seemed to have been done since they were lifted out last autumn ... three weeks of good weather and little has changed around the area Whimbrel briefly sat!
We're both looking forward to the planned Finesse Rally on the River Medway in a few weeks time ... it is getting rapidly closer. 18 boats have 'booked' berths for the Chatham part of the meet and I'm hoping all or most of those make it.
Other Finesse owners may join in too ... contact me, however, we may have reached our peak on numbers for the group facility pontoon, but you can book berths in the marina and join us ... move over if space too!
Posted on 05 May 2013 by admin
The Sea-Change Sailing Trust
The Sea-Change Sailing Trust held an event aboard the sailing barge Lady Daphne at her berth in St Katharine Docks last Monday (15th April) in aid of making a dash for the line in their quest for funding a new Thames sailing barge and the means to operate her for three whole years.
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The trust chartered barge Reminder tacking up towards Maldon's Hythe.
The Sea-Change Sailing Trust is an organisation that uses a barge to change the lives of young adult for the better. Their ethos is for the barge and client to achieve something positive together. Shore-side mentors continue working with the young adults, as needed. And return trips are made to embed changes. See: http://www.seachangesailingtrust.org.uk/
The Reminder coming alongside ... engine use for one week was about 5 minutes...
The trust now has within its employ a young man who first stepped aboard a barge a couple of seasons ago ... he had a hard time getting used to a structured life: afloat there are some rules, which a landsman would jibe at, but are there for very good reason. However, that lad, a very pleasant and unassuming young man has made his journey. He grew to love life afloat, went on to train for RYA certification and has since gained his third hand bargeman’s 'ticket' and is sailing as third hand on trust chartered barges... Wow, what a positive story...
Anyway, the evening last week was opened by the alderman of the Aldgate ward of the City of London, Peter Hewitt. He is a sailor, well a motor boater with a modest craft based on the Solent (we can forgive him that, surely - we did at the event!) Peter introduced the guest speaker, Tom Cunliff who wowed the audience with his wit and repartee as he approached the crunch - money: that is what is desperately needed. The trust is so close to achieving their target to fund a new build and three years of running costs, including bursaries...
Alderman Peter Hewitt opening last week’s event...
There were many amazing people at the event: a marathon runner; the lad who turned his life around; an executive of Dubai Ports; a Danish brother and sister, I think the brother was 'in' shipping, and was at sea once, like myself; the High Sherriff of Essex, Julia Abel Smith; and many important people from the city...
It was both convivial and exciting: reflecting as I wandered along the Thames-side road to the Captain Kidd for some supper with my mate, I could hear the snap, crackle and fizz as flame cutters fashioned the first plates of the trust's new barge, the Blue Mermaid...
The original Blue Mermaid ... built 1930 ... sunk 9th July 1941 near the West Hook Middle when sailing up the Swin... Soon to be sailing again, built from original plans.
Can any of you out there help; know of anyone who can ... please contact Don at the Sea-Change Sailing Trust. Thank you.
The Trust, in its own blog, thanked Elizabeth & Michael Minelli, the owners of the Lady Daphne, for the use of their barge. I was particularly impressed with their daughter, who worked like a Trojan ... ensuring glasses were filled ... truly in the spirit of the occasion.
<
The trust chartered barge Reminder tacking up towards Maldon's Hythe.
The Sea-Change Sailing Trust is an organisation that uses a barge to change the lives of young adult for the better. Their ethos is for the barge and client to achieve something positive together. Shore-side mentors continue working with the young adults, as needed. And return trips are made to embed changes. See: http://www.seachangesailingtrust.org.uk/
The Reminder coming alongside ... engine use for one week was about 5 minutes...
The trust now has within its employ a young man who first stepped aboard a barge a couple of seasons ago ... he had a hard time getting used to a structured life: afloat there are some rules, which a landsman would jibe at, but are there for very good reason. However, that lad, a very pleasant and unassuming young man has made his journey. He grew to love life afloat, went on to train for RYA certification and has since gained his third hand bargeman’s 'ticket' and is sailing as third hand on trust chartered barges... Wow, what a positive story...
Anyway, the evening last week was opened by the alderman of the Aldgate ward of the City of London, Peter Hewitt. He is a sailor, well a motor boater with a modest craft based on the Solent (we can forgive him that, surely - we did at the event!) Peter introduced the guest speaker, Tom Cunliff who wowed the audience with his wit and repartee as he approached the crunch - money: that is what is desperately needed. The trust is so close to achieving their target to fund a new build and three years of running costs, including bursaries...
Alderman Peter Hewitt opening last week’s event...
There were many amazing people at the event: a marathon runner; the lad who turned his life around; an executive of Dubai Ports; a Danish brother and sister, I think the brother was 'in' shipping, and was at sea once, like myself; the High Sherriff of Essex, Julia Abel Smith; and many important people from the city...
It was both convivial and exciting: reflecting as I wandered along the Thames-side road to the Captain Kidd for some supper with my mate, I could hear the snap, crackle and fizz as flame cutters fashioned the first plates of the trust's new barge, the Blue Mermaid...
The original Blue Mermaid ... built 1930 ... sunk 9th July 1941 near the West Hook Middle when sailing up the Swin... Soon to be sailing again, built from original plans.
Can any of you out there help; know of anyone who can ... please contact Don at the Sea-Change Sailing Trust. Thank you.
The Trust, in its own blog, thanked Elizabeth & Michael Minelli, the owners of the Lady Daphne, for the use of their barge. I was particularly impressed with their daughter, who worked like a Trojan ... ensuring glasses were filled ... truly in the spirit of the occasion.
Posted on 21 Apr 2013 by admin
Ditch-crawler being thoughtful...
Easter this spring hasn't been of the best, weather wise, being largely very cold with a bitingly strong easterly in the Thames estuary areas. It has been relatively dry though!
My mother was collected from her new home down in Devizes to stay for several days over the Easter period by me and the mate. She was desperate to be taken afloat ... but the thought of getting my 82 year old mum aboard and looking after her in a force 4-5 easterly was out of the question, however, we took her 'back' to Maldon: she wanted to walk the Hythe and look at barges.
I spotted this cat ... now people that know me know that I am definitely not a cat or dog man, but this tickled me... It seemed completely oblivious of the cold in its sun drenched niche - actually a starboard light board. While my mother was taking a photograph looking back past the old steam tug, rotting at her berth by the old boating lake, her walking sticks fell in the mud. Muggings then had to wade along a muddy shoreline to retrieve them, to much amusement from above...
Ditch-crawler's cat...
While in the town a luncheon stop had to be enjoyed at one of the local hosteleries, of course. Afterwards we spotted some very brave Essex Belles trying to work cold stiffened joints into some kind of dance. They didn't stay long!
Brave ladies!
Mother enjoyed her reminiscing revisiting her old Essex haunts: she went back to Leigh old town too, for some local grub at a cockle shed, as well as getting a 'taste' of salt down at my sailing club.
When out visiting with my sister down in Devizes we went to Dereham House - I was surprised to find out that the house and deer park were purchased by the National trust for the Nation after the end of WW2. It is dedicated to all who fell during that conflict... They should make a bigger 'thing' of it: it is doubtful if many actually know!
During this week I was reading about the sailing ship Mayflower II over in the USA (Visit: patriotledger.com). She is undergoing a $400, 000 refit to renew most of her hull planking. The ship was built around 55 years ago.
It led me to think of our 'own' Mayflower project. The project is based in the Port of Harwich, Essex, at the old rail yard. The wood for the ship's keel, two large oaks I saw last year outside awaiting sawing, is due to be fashioned this year, as construction work begins. It may even have started.
The project, like the recent Cambria rebuild, aims to train youngsters in the art of wooden ship construction and boat building. The project can be visited at: www.harwichmayflower.com
Ah well, did I get out sailing over Easter? I suppose I did: Saturday, the day before Low Sunday, was a really nice day. It is still within the Easter period. The day was forecasted to be good. I woke early. It was sunny with a decent N-NE sailing breeze. I was soon off... The mate didn't come along ... I left her 'asleep' but she called me up (B- mobiles!) as I was sailing out of our creek a little after 8 a.m.
It was sparkly out on the water and I had a cracking sail up to the 'Benfleet' and back out, a mile or so beyond 'home' enjoying a run in over the young ebb, back onto my mooring. Bliss!
My mother was collected from her new home down in Devizes to stay for several days over the Easter period by me and the mate. She was desperate to be taken afloat ... but the thought of getting my 82 year old mum aboard and looking after her in a force 4-5 easterly was out of the question, however, we took her 'back' to Maldon: she wanted to walk the Hythe and look at barges.
I spotted this cat ... now people that know me know that I am definitely not a cat or dog man, but this tickled me... It seemed completely oblivious of the cold in its sun drenched niche - actually a starboard light board. While my mother was taking a photograph looking back past the old steam tug, rotting at her berth by the old boating lake, her walking sticks fell in the mud. Muggings then had to wade along a muddy shoreline to retrieve them, to much amusement from above...
Ditch-crawler's cat...
While in the town a luncheon stop had to be enjoyed at one of the local hosteleries, of course. Afterwards we spotted some very brave Essex Belles trying to work cold stiffened joints into some kind of dance. They didn't stay long!
Brave ladies!
Mother enjoyed her reminiscing revisiting her old Essex haunts: she went back to Leigh old town too, for some local grub at a cockle shed, as well as getting a 'taste' of salt down at my sailing club.
When out visiting with my sister down in Devizes we went to Dereham House - I was surprised to find out that the house and deer park were purchased by the National trust for the Nation after the end of WW2. It is dedicated to all who fell during that conflict... They should make a bigger 'thing' of it: it is doubtful if many actually know!
During this week I was reading about the sailing ship Mayflower II over in the USA (Visit: patriotledger.com). She is undergoing a $400, 000 refit to renew most of her hull planking. The ship was built around 55 years ago.
It led me to think of our 'own' Mayflower project. The project is based in the Port of Harwich, Essex, at the old rail yard. The wood for the ship's keel, two large oaks I saw last year outside awaiting sawing, is due to be fashioned this year, as construction work begins. It may even have started.
The project, like the recent Cambria rebuild, aims to train youngsters in the art of wooden ship construction and boat building. The project can be visited at: www.harwichmayflower.com
Ah well, did I get out sailing over Easter? I suppose I did: Saturday, the day before Low Sunday, was a really nice day. It is still within the Easter period. The day was forecasted to be good. I woke early. It was sunny with a decent N-NE sailing breeze. I was soon off... The mate didn't come along ... I left her 'asleep' but she called me up (B- mobiles!) as I was sailing out of our creek a little after 8 a.m.
It was sparkly out on the water and I had a cracking sail up to the 'Benfleet' and back out, a mile or so beyond 'home' enjoying a run in over the young ebb, back onto my mooring. Bliss!
Posted on 09 Apr 2013 by admin
East Coast Rivers
Some very sad and unexpected news came my way today ... eastcoastrivers.com has closed down. It is due; it's said on the web site, for personal reasons.
I know many coastal sailors like me would want to wish Chris Woods all the very best and many thanks and good wishes for hosting the information service the site provided.
The site had all sorts of information charts about river entrances and provided, for the sister publication East Coast Rivers Cruising Companion, an avenue for Janet Harber's regular navigational and information updates - fed from her 'army' of volunteers and herself, of course.
Entering the Deben as a mist rolled in from the sea ... it had been a sunny passage up from Pin Mill...
What about those useful charts then? Well, I am trying to find out. Will the East Coast Pilot team take them up? The two 'organisations' have provided so much for the modern sailor; it seems hard to believe it won't continue.
Leaving Orford at 0400 for passage out of river and down to West Mersea...
Chris Woods, the web site's owner, says that the entrances to the Ore and Deben will continue to be surveyed by Trinity House in the spring, and buoys moved as required. His advice is to use your pilotage knowledge, follow the buoyed passages allowing for cross currents and wind. Common sense really ... but those chartlets often differed greatly from one year to the next. I'm sure most of us looked at them, avidly, before entering... maybe they'll still be available.
Anyway, less of the above ... it’ll pan out, surely.
The mate and I went sailing yesterday afternoon/evening. Well we grabbed an opportunity when the forecast had said rain showers ... overcast it was, yes, but the sun was always there. So, with a gentle breeze, we went for it ... sailing back into the creek, under sail, to berth with the sun setting low ... I can't keep up with her demands!
Today, a reader in Hong Kong sent me a couple of pictures of sailing in that great harbour (I went there on a ship in 1975...) on what was a race day. The picture supplier was once one of Alan Platt’s team of Finesse builders at the yard in Hadleigh Woods. I gave the sailing cluster a miss in favour of this below...
Apparently, some of the crew sailing this beast were part of the BMW Oracle Team... Picture: Ian Downing
I know many coastal sailors like me would want to wish Chris Woods all the very best and many thanks and good wishes for hosting the information service the site provided.
The site had all sorts of information charts about river entrances and provided, for the sister publication East Coast Rivers Cruising Companion, an avenue for Janet Harber's regular navigational and information updates - fed from her 'army' of volunteers and herself, of course.
Entering the Deben as a mist rolled in from the sea ... it had been a sunny passage up from Pin Mill...
What about those useful charts then? Well, I am trying to find out. Will the East Coast Pilot team take them up? The two 'organisations' have provided so much for the modern sailor; it seems hard to believe it won't continue.
Leaving Orford at 0400 for passage out of river and down to West Mersea...
Chris Woods, the web site's owner, says that the entrances to the Ore and Deben will continue to be surveyed by Trinity House in the spring, and buoys moved as required. His advice is to use your pilotage knowledge, follow the buoyed passages allowing for cross currents and wind. Common sense really ... but those chartlets often differed greatly from one year to the next. I'm sure most of us looked at them, avidly, before entering... maybe they'll still be available.
Anyway, less of the above ... it’ll pan out, surely.
The mate and I went sailing yesterday afternoon/evening. Well we grabbed an opportunity when the forecast had said rain showers ... overcast it was, yes, but the sun was always there. So, with a gentle breeze, we went for it ... sailing back into the creek, under sail, to berth with the sun setting low ... I can't keep up with her demands!
Today, a reader in Hong Kong sent me a couple of pictures of sailing in that great harbour (I went there on a ship in 1975...) on what was a race day. The picture supplier was once one of Alan Platt’s team of Finesse builders at the yard in Hadleigh Woods. I gave the sailing cluster a miss in favour of this below...
Apparently, some of the crew sailing this beast were part of the BMW Oracle Team... Picture: Ian Downing
Posted on 19 Mar 2013 by admin
An alternative to sailing...
I'd had thoughts of a sail the day this picture was taken: the wind was due to be less than it had been, however we had a dump of the glistening white stuff. So, undaunted, the mate and me went off for a wintery walk along the top of Hadleigh Downs. Boy it was bracing!
View over the Thames estuary on a blustery day with snow showers.
Pausing by Hadleigh Castle we gazed 'down' at our sloop, in the far distance, tucked up Smallgains Creek with me wondering when she'll carry us out again: the tides will be at either end of the day this coming week... I'm sure the long-ish walk did us both good, physically, if not mentally - well it was enjoyable too!
My honorary research assistant out in New Zealand contacted this last week with news from a web blog 'Visions of a Creek' all about Faversham Creek. It was on In The Boatshed web site: http://intheboatshed.net owned by Gavin Atkin. Since then I have been trying to find out who 'runs' the visions site, both for me and Gavin.
The Visions blog appears to be a 'sister' web site to the official site of the Faversham Creek trust. And it is, I understand, run by Mike Maloney, maker of the films, 'Red Sails' and 'Sideways Launch' a history of Pollock's Shipyard.
I love Faversham and follow keenly what is going on. It is such a lovely place to sit in during summer sailing for two or three nights.
Gavin has also placed a piece about the forthcoming Finesse Rally at the end of May. The link detail is:
http://intheboatshed.net/2013/03/15/2013-finesse-meet-scheduled-for-stangate-creek-24th-may/#comment-333100
Anyway, currently there seems little chance of a sail ... my youngest brother was 'booked' to do an overnight trip this weekend, but, alas I have cancelled it, wisely I think!
View over the Thames estuary on a blustery day with snow showers.
Pausing by Hadleigh Castle we gazed 'down' at our sloop, in the far distance, tucked up Smallgains Creek with me wondering when she'll carry us out again: the tides will be at either end of the day this coming week... I'm sure the long-ish walk did us both good, physically, if not mentally - well it was enjoyable too!
My honorary research assistant out in New Zealand contacted this last week with news from a web blog 'Visions of a Creek' all about Faversham Creek. It was on In The Boatshed web site: http://intheboatshed.net owned by Gavin Atkin. Since then I have been trying to find out who 'runs' the visions site, both for me and Gavin.
The Visions blog appears to be a 'sister' web site to the official site of the Faversham Creek trust. And it is, I understand, run by Mike Maloney, maker of the films, 'Red Sails' and 'Sideways Launch' a history of Pollock's Shipyard.
I love Faversham and follow keenly what is going on. It is such a lovely place to sit in during summer sailing for two or three nights.
Gavin has also placed a piece about the forthcoming Finesse Rally at the end of May. The link detail is:
http://intheboatshed.net/2013/03/15/2013-finesse-meet-scheduled-for-stangate-creek-24th-may/#comment-333100
Anyway, currently there seems little chance of a sail ... my youngest brother was 'booked' to do an overnight trip this weekend, but, alas I have cancelled it, wisely I think!
Posted on 15 Mar 2013 by admin
Essex Book Festival 2013
Last Friday, I went off to Chelmsford with the mate to attend the opening of the 2013 Essex Book Festival. The tide for the day was great too, as was the weather, hey ho, the things a sailor has to do!
I thought the opening, hosted live on radio by Dave Monk from BBC Essex, was a little quieter than the last time I attended in 2011 (I couldn't get off from work last year) ... that said there were some interesting things going on around the lower floor of the main library in Chelmsford where it all took place.
The Story Tree...
Apart from the usual interviews of authors, publisher's and reading groups there were stalls dealing with; The story Tree, a real life little tree which gradually sprouted tags with the endings, in a couple of short sentences, for a story ... these were to be taken into a school somewhere in Essex during the month long festival; there was a table where people filled out a card with the author, title and what you thought of a book that moved you; and there were many more places to stop, chat, do something, plus of course enjoy a coffee.
Writing about a favourite book...
One of the little niggles was catching part of an interview with a writer who, pointedly said, 'you can't get published without an agent...'
‘Tosh!’ my mate muttered.
A live interview with two guests...
Another person talked about how she churned out the 'book' and then sat back to begin livening it up, 'dressing' - another called it. Yes, true, to a certain extent, but what appeared to be missing from that particular interview was PASHION. There was no feeling emanating from across the floor about what they were writing about ... it left me a little cold.
I had a discussion with someone near the top of the organising tree about the lack of venues being used in the southern half of the county: the uniqueness of the Essex Book Festival has always been its diversity of authors and venues. It has always, until this year, covered the North, South, East and West of our essentially box shaped county. With that in mind I have opened a live conversation with a group in Hadleigh (Essex) to consider doing something next year ... and even something through the year...
The maritime world has not been represented either ... the mate was cross: they hadn't asked me ... silly girl!
Apart from those 'small' points, we both enjoyed the occasion and went away stimulated by the event...
There are many fantastic events that one can still get tickets for - see Essex Book Festival web site or pop into local library for a booklet... There are some child friendly events too: if you hook a child into books it'll translate, hopefully, into more book worms when they move onto become adults...
I thought the opening, hosted live on radio by Dave Monk from BBC Essex, was a little quieter than the last time I attended in 2011 (I couldn't get off from work last year) ... that said there were some interesting things going on around the lower floor of the main library in Chelmsford where it all took place.
The Story Tree...
Apart from the usual interviews of authors, publisher's and reading groups there were stalls dealing with; The story Tree, a real life little tree which gradually sprouted tags with the endings, in a couple of short sentences, for a story ... these were to be taken into a school somewhere in Essex during the month long festival; there was a table where people filled out a card with the author, title and what you thought of a book that moved you; and there were many more places to stop, chat, do something, plus of course enjoy a coffee.
Writing about a favourite book...
One of the little niggles was catching part of an interview with a writer who, pointedly said, 'you can't get published without an agent...'
‘Tosh!’ my mate muttered.
A live interview with two guests...
Another person talked about how she churned out the 'book' and then sat back to begin livening it up, 'dressing' - another called it. Yes, true, to a certain extent, but what appeared to be missing from that particular interview was PASHION. There was no feeling emanating from across the floor about what they were writing about ... it left me a little cold.
I had a discussion with someone near the top of the organising tree about the lack of venues being used in the southern half of the county: the uniqueness of the Essex Book Festival has always been its diversity of authors and venues. It has always, until this year, covered the North, South, East and West of our essentially box shaped county. With that in mind I have opened a live conversation with a group in Hadleigh (Essex) to consider doing something next year ... and even something through the year...
The maritime world has not been represented either ... the mate was cross: they hadn't asked me ... silly girl!
Apart from those 'small' points, we both enjoyed the occasion and went away stimulated by the event...
There are many fantastic events that one can still get tickets for - see Essex Book Festival web site or pop into local library for a booklet... There are some child friendly events too: if you hook a child into books it'll translate, hopefully, into more book worms when they move onto become adults...
Posted on 05 Mar 2013 by admin
Whimbrel goes filming ... Hot Wings Films
I've known for some while that Whimbrel was going to be the platform for some filming for a movie ... but for obvious reasons not mentioned it.
The film is being produced by Hot Wings Films. The director, Mitch Panayis, is a PhD student (and lecturer) at Kingston University. The director had a preliminary sail a couple of weeks ago to familiarise himself with the beauty of the terrain bordering Benfleet Creek under Hadleigh downs and the marshes of Canvey Island - he was gobsmacked...
I’d been watching the weather very closely for a week ... peering at various online sites... Anyway, yesterday it all happened. The forecast was about as high as I would have liked with a crowd of novices aboard - with the extra ballast the boat hardly heeled! A reef was put in the mainsail before everyone had arrived... It was overcast with a thin cloud layer. A cold NE blew.
Two actors and three 'crew' with cameras and booms (Ah yes I was careful with my nautical language while they were all aboard: a boom is the microphone dressed in fluffy tassel) bags and paraphernalia. Two other camera people stayed ashore to 'get' the boat leaving the creek, under sail, in 'charge' of the actors - really she was: I was below looking astern...
Whimbrel sailing out of Smallgains Creek with the two actors in control...
We did some stuff out in the wide open while sailing towards Southend Pier with several takes (and requests to slow the boat in a NE 4 gusting 5 at times... Then we turned inland, eventually sailing up to the other island yacht club, the 'Benfleet'. On the way up we did take 1, 2, 3, 4 of various bits and then take 1, 2, 3, of another, etc...
After kind of holding the tiller with the actors also holding I soon got them to get a feel for it and they were completely oblivious to the fact that they were actually sailing... None of this cheating stuff!
Director and camera man...
The key actor said, '...the boat sailed herself ... I could feel her come up in the blows ... and pushed it over...' The 'it' was the tiller of course.
Two of the 'crew' had a go too. And the key actor took the boat back into the creek, helming until I dropped the sail off the mooring, nipping back to take over ... to glide into our berth. Engine only used to stop the boat: she felt heavy!
Under jib, the two sailed, serenely, like pros, back to their mooring...
The mate, bless her, had looked after the shore crew and all came aboard for a late basket of sandwiches, cake and something hot.
There will be shots of the boat at the beginning and end of the film. When it is released I will give all details...
'Mick' said, '...apart from getting cold ... I really enjoyed that...'
Ah yes, a convert, perhaps!
The film is being produced by Hot Wings Films. The director, Mitch Panayis, is a PhD student (and lecturer) at Kingston University. The director had a preliminary sail a couple of weeks ago to familiarise himself with the beauty of the terrain bordering Benfleet Creek under Hadleigh downs and the marshes of Canvey Island - he was gobsmacked...
I’d been watching the weather very closely for a week ... peering at various online sites... Anyway, yesterday it all happened. The forecast was about as high as I would have liked with a crowd of novices aboard - with the extra ballast the boat hardly heeled! A reef was put in the mainsail before everyone had arrived... It was overcast with a thin cloud layer. A cold NE blew.
Two actors and three 'crew' with cameras and booms (Ah yes I was careful with my nautical language while they were all aboard: a boom is the microphone dressed in fluffy tassel) bags and paraphernalia. Two other camera people stayed ashore to 'get' the boat leaving the creek, under sail, in 'charge' of the actors - really she was: I was below looking astern...
Whimbrel sailing out of Smallgains Creek with the two actors in control...
We did some stuff out in the wide open while sailing towards Southend Pier with several takes (and requests to slow the boat in a NE 4 gusting 5 at times... Then we turned inland, eventually sailing up to the other island yacht club, the 'Benfleet'. On the way up we did take 1, 2, 3, 4 of various bits and then take 1, 2, 3, of another, etc...
After kind of holding the tiller with the actors also holding I soon got them to get a feel for it and they were completely oblivious to the fact that they were actually sailing... None of this cheating stuff!
Director and camera man...
The key actor said, '...the boat sailed herself ... I could feel her come up in the blows ... and pushed it over...' The 'it' was the tiller of course.
Two of the 'crew' had a go too. And the key actor took the boat back into the creek, helming until I dropped the sail off the mooring, nipping back to take over ... to glide into our berth. Engine only used to stop the boat: she felt heavy!
Under jib, the two sailed, serenely, like pros, back to their mooring...
The mate, bless her, had looked after the shore crew and all came aboard for a late basket of sandwiches, cake and something hot.
There will be shots of the boat at the beginning and end of the film. When it is released I will give all details...
'Mick' said, '...apart from getting cold ... I really enjoyed that...'
Ah yes, a convert, perhaps!
Posted on 28 Feb 2013 by admin
Essex Book Festival
The Essex Book Festival opens at Chelmsford library on Friday 1st March. Doors will open around 0900. BBC Essex will be inside carrying out interviews with various authors. See festival web site for details.
One of my gripes with the changes that have taken place is what I, and others feel, is a move away from 'local' authors. Yes, we need the big names too, but... The other thing of note is that the majority of the events are taking place 'up-country' above the finest part of the county. The part with (me) and the muddy silt laden waters of the Thames, Crouch and Roach with their marshy tributaries...
However, I shall be there at the opening...
Here is a bit more on my previous missive about 'grabbing' the chances...
Me and the mate were out walking this morning, a trek through our local woodland, crunching through deeply crusted semi-frozen slosh. Nearing the end we popped into St Michael's Church community room where we knew a piping hot coffee and some delicious cake could be had. While munching the mate had asked me if I was still planning to go out in the afternoon...
By 'going out' she meant, of course, for a sail. She'd expected to be elsewhere so on my nodding she asked if she could come too ... no need to ask, surely. I was delighted. It is part of the pleasure of the mate not being ensconced within a classroom now...
We had a grand thrash across to the Crowstone off Westcliff in a breeze that was beginning to rise as the tide headed towards its zenith. We had a flask of homemade pea & Ham soup ... cor it was needed: my thumbs buried within thick thermal gloves froze a little. No tacking see ... tacking helps the body and its extremities to stay warm. The mate was well wrapped, but upon taking over for a trick, realised how cold she was getting. we were on the way back by then...
Reaching the mooring she said, 'Who's idea was that then...' I thought it was hers ... but she'd enjoyed it. Her fourth sail of the year. Ah!
The mate well wrapped up ... it was about 2 degrees C with a SSE 3-4 cutting across Sea Reach from Kent.
On the way home, in the comfort of a warm car, the mate said that her nose wasn't as cold as her eye balls...!
One of my gripes with the changes that have taken place is what I, and others feel, is a move away from 'local' authors. Yes, we need the big names too, but... The other thing of note is that the majority of the events are taking place 'up-country' above the finest part of the county. The part with (me) and the muddy silt laden waters of the Thames, Crouch and Roach with their marshy tributaries...
However, I shall be there at the opening...
Here is a bit more on my previous missive about 'grabbing' the chances...
Me and the mate were out walking this morning, a trek through our local woodland, crunching through deeply crusted semi-frozen slosh. Nearing the end we popped into St Michael's Church community room where we knew a piping hot coffee and some delicious cake could be had. While munching the mate had asked me if I was still planning to go out in the afternoon...
By 'going out' she meant, of course, for a sail. She'd expected to be elsewhere so on my nodding she asked if she could come too ... no need to ask, surely. I was delighted. It is part of the pleasure of the mate not being ensconced within a classroom now...
We had a grand thrash across to the Crowstone off Westcliff in a breeze that was beginning to rise as the tide headed towards its zenith. We had a flask of homemade pea & Ham soup ... cor it was needed: my thumbs buried within thick thermal gloves froze a little. No tacking see ... tacking helps the body and its extremities to stay warm. The mate was well wrapped, but upon taking over for a trick, realised how cold she was getting. we were on the way back by then...
Reaching the mooring she said, 'Who's idea was that then...' I thought it was hers ... but she'd enjoyed it. Her fourth sail of the year. Ah!
The mate well wrapped up ... it was about 2 degrees C with a SSE 3-4 cutting across Sea Reach from Kent.
On the way home, in the comfort of a warm car, the mate said that her nose wasn't as cold as her eye balls...!
Posted on 13 Feb 2013 by admin
It's what you make of it...
Having a boat is often what you make of it and the opportunity to grab those magic moments - stolen sails - when it wasn't expected. Work party at the club the Saturday before this last had been cancelled due to ‘bad’ weather ... so, in beautiful sunshine and a gentle breeze, I enjoyed a potter out across to Leigh–on-Sea. It was grand. This was followed on Friday ... listening to the forecast I made up my mind that, whatever, I was going for a sail. I did too. It was glorious after a week of wind.
Rain has been a little sparse this last week, thankfully, around my parts, but the varnish work has suffered in places this past six months - still I have a willing mate who hasn't a school to loiter in now, so she is preparing her hands and arm muscles for sanding work ... it won't be long.
I was reading an article about boat names (RNLI Offshore) recently and I was reminded of when I was doing my VHF course at a college locally (at which I was then and still working at). The tutor asked who had their own boat - only three of us out of a class of around twenty - and when he got to me, he guffawed at the boat's name ... Whimbrel. 'Wouldn't want to be saying that over the radio,' he said, laughing...
I was mortified. I was even angrier: it's not a 'silly' name, and as a tutor the number one rule is you don't take the mickey out of your students... I reported him through the end of course bumf. I've never done a RYA course since...
It's funny really; my experience at the hands of RYA tutors hasn't ever been a good one. I had a bust up once about ropes ... the tutor tried impressing the class that natural and man-made alternatives had no place afloat... Living on the east coast and being of sailing barge stock I disagreed: lots of 'yotties' use these ... I was in a class up in Rosyth on the Firth of Forth. Ah well...
Anyway, the only boat name that I have ever seen in a list of top ten names was Pegasus. The rest are just darn right daft, mostly... These were Second Wind, Seas the Day, Lazy Daze, Jolly Roger, Bail Out, On the Rocks, Pegasus, Serenity Now, Namaste and Comfortably Numb.
(The source was apparently forum.woodenboat.com)
Saying 'Whimbrel...' over the radio, hasn't, as my course tutor joked about, been a problem. Spelling the bird's name has been for many marina operatives though. Hey Ho!
Rain has been a little sparse this last week, thankfully, around my parts, but the varnish work has suffered in places this past six months - still I have a willing mate who hasn't a school to loiter in now, so she is preparing her hands and arm muscles for sanding work ... it won't be long.
I was reading an article about boat names (RNLI Offshore) recently and I was reminded of when I was doing my VHF course at a college locally (at which I was then and still working at). The tutor asked who had their own boat - only three of us out of a class of around twenty - and when he got to me, he guffawed at the boat's name ... Whimbrel. 'Wouldn't want to be saying that over the radio,' he said, laughing...
I was mortified. I was even angrier: it's not a 'silly' name, and as a tutor the number one rule is you don't take the mickey out of your students... I reported him through the end of course bumf. I've never done a RYA course since...
It's funny really; my experience at the hands of RYA tutors hasn't ever been a good one. I had a bust up once about ropes ... the tutor tried impressing the class that natural and man-made alternatives had no place afloat... Living on the east coast and being of sailing barge stock I disagreed: lots of 'yotties' use these ... I was in a class up in Rosyth on the Firth of Forth. Ah well...
Anyway, the only boat name that I have ever seen in a list of top ten names was Pegasus. The rest are just darn right daft, mostly... These were Second Wind, Seas the Day, Lazy Daze, Jolly Roger, Bail Out, On the Rocks, Pegasus, Serenity Now, Namaste and Comfortably Numb.
(The source was apparently forum.woodenboat.com)
Saying 'Whimbrel...' over the radio, hasn't, as my course tutor joked about, been a problem. Spelling the bird's name has been for many marina operatives though. Hey Ho!
Posted on 03 Feb 2013 by admin
Sailing is fun...
One of my delights, and that of the mate, is to spend a couple of days loitering around the Mersea Quarters. It is restful and once the day is done a quiet solitude descends over the waterways. Often it is not unusual to see only a few other lit cabins as dark descends.
By day the scene is often a colourful jumble of dancing sails as groups of cadets skitter here and there shepherded by orange and black ribs crewed by brightly clad adults directing their fleets.
Sometimes, at the end of a training or race period a couple of youngsters, with far more ability in a dinghy than I'll ever have, will whoosh by on a skimming dish a something 'niner' to cavort out in the deeper water.
Sometimes something goes 'wrong' through the moorings and a capsize occurs. Often I've asked if all is well ... beaming faces look up and signify a 'we're alright...' but I continue to monitor until they're away again...
What is important is that they were out there, doing it, enjoying themselves and making good use of their time. They'll be out there next season, the one coming, it is hoped, spurred on by success by local sailors from their patch in last year's Olympics.
Wouldn't it be nice if more of those moored craft had owners as keen as those youngsters ... remember that one with a gull family nesting around its decks. See blog from around August...
By day the scene is often a colourful jumble of dancing sails as groups of cadets skitter here and there shepherded by orange and black ribs crewed by brightly clad adults directing their fleets.
Sometimes, at the end of a training or race period a couple of youngsters, with far more ability in a dinghy than I'll ever have, will whoosh by on a skimming dish a something 'niner' to cavort out in the deeper water.
Sometimes something goes 'wrong' through the moorings and a capsize occurs. Often I've asked if all is well ... beaming faces look up and signify a 'we're alright...' but I continue to monitor until they're away again...
What is important is that they were out there, doing it, enjoying themselves and making good use of their time. They'll be out there next season, the one coming, it is hoped, spurred on by success by local sailors from their patch in last year's Olympics.
Wouldn't it be nice if more of those moored craft had owners as keen as those youngsters ... remember that one with a gull family nesting around its decks. See blog from around August...
Posted on 20 Jan 2013 by admin
Finesse Meet - Late May Bank Holiday
Two magazines have recently put out an 'advert' for the Finesse Class Meet planned for the late May Bank Holiday Weekend this year. These are additional to the slot given by East Coast Sailing News (web based news magazine) in the early autumn - with my thanks to Colin Jarman.
The latest are attached here:
Section from Classic Boat Magazine, November 2012, courtesy of Classic Boat.
Anglia Afloat's 'Porthole News' section, courtesy of Anglia Afloat.
There are still pontoon spaces at Chatham for more Finesse Yachts to join with those already booked... Contact me through this web site, or see the Finesse Google site.
The latest are attached here:
Section from Classic Boat Magazine, November 2012, courtesy of Classic Boat.
Anglia Afloat's 'Porthole News' section, courtesy of Anglia Afloat.
There are still pontoon spaces at Chatham for more Finesse Yachts to join with those already booked... Contact me through this web site, or see the Finesse Google site.
Posted on 05 Jan 2013 by admin
Ditch-crawler's Boxing Day sail...
The day dawned bright and sunny along the shores of the Thames estuary and I didn't need any prompting from the mate to get off. She, bless her, stayed at home to clear up our breakfast things and be a good host to my mother... My mother would have loved a sail, but I wasn't too happy about the thought of taking her along a long and slippery length of boarded walkway round to the boat.
I reached the boat in good time to get everything ready before she lifted from the mud that cocoons her while the tide is out. The forecast had said south-westerly, and it was. The morning period was supposed to be a four, rising to six in the afternoon ... later listening to Thames CG there were warnings of gale 8's on the way.
Sails were set after rounding into the light breeze inside the creek, watched by a bystander on the walkway, and tacking round I was away, gently over the neap flood.
Creeping over the flood...
Quietly creeping past the outer end of my club's moorings I was met by a string of Brents crossing the creek where they would forage along the marsh edges for food.
Silly birds!
Above the eastern point a swirl of birds swooped and swayed across the sky. After some days of damp and overcast conditions it was bliss. I silently spoke to the mate, telepathically - I'm sure she heard me!
A curlew crosses the clear sky in salute...
Choosing to sail west, up Benfleet Creek, I passed many walkers seeking the solace of the open and, perhaps, a spot of 'walking off that turkey...' It was a gloriously quiet sail, almost a drift by the time I reached the island's other yacht club where I turned with the assistance of the iron tops'l: the wind had all but died. Within 12 minutes the throbbing helper was silenced as the breeze began to pick up as a line of cloud crept ever closer from the southwest... By the time I had reached past Two Tree Island, the boat had definitely picked up her skirts and was leaving a lacy wash astern.
Coming up to the place I was intending to round up I spotted a couple of Little Grebes diving along the shallows close to where brown tinged stalks of cord grass poked from the water along the edge of the saltings ... I chuckled as I mouthed, 'They're enjoying this too...'
I reached the boat in good time to get everything ready before she lifted from the mud that cocoons her while the tide is out. The forecast had said south-westerly, and it was. The morning period was supposed to be a four, rising to six in the afternoon ... later listening to Thames CG there were warnings of gale 8's on the way.
Sails were set after rounding into the light breeze inside the creek, watched by a bystander on the walkway, and tacking round I was away, gently over the neap flood.
Creeping over the flood...
Quietly creeping past the outer end of my club's moorings I was met by a string of Brents crossing the creek where they would forage along the marsh edges for food.
Silly birds!
Above the eastern point a swirl of birds swooped and swayed across the sky. After some days of damp and overcast conditions it was bliss. I silently spoke to the mate, telepathically - I'm sure she heard me!
A curlew crosses the clear sky in salute...
Choosing to sail west, up Benfleet Creek, I passed many walkers seeking the solace of the open and, perhaps, a spot of 'walking off that turkey...' It was a gloriously quiet sail, almost a drift by the time I reached the island's other yacht club where I turned with the assistance of the iron tops'l: the wind had all but died. Within 12 minutes the throbbing helper was silenced as the breeze began to pick up as a line of cloud crept ever closer from the southwest... By the time I had reached past Two Tree Island, the boat had definitely picked up her skirts and was leaving a lacy wash astern.
Coming up to the place I was intending to round up I spotted a couple of Little Grebes diving along the shallows close to where brown tinged stalks of cord grass poked from the water along the edge of the saltings ... I chuckled as I mouthed, 'They're enjoying this too...'
Posted on 26 Dec 2012 by admin
Ditch-crawler wishes all sailors' a Happy Christmas...
I would like to wish all sailors and visitors to this site, very special greetings of the season...
Whimbrel sailing in Benfleet Creek with her usual seasonal topping... Picture: Dick Smith of the Benfleet YC.
I am listening to the forecasts intently for I am becoming 'desperate' for a sail! It has been such a poor autumn and early winter, however, ever hopeful, I am confident in getting out over the festive period at some point. The mate is keen too - even my mother who is with us for part of the period.
For all of you who are 'beached' until the boat goes in during next spring, it isn't so long to wait ... there are those memories to savour and enjoy and even recount to those that will listen...
For most it is a time to pick up that special book, settle back in a chair, with perhaps a glass of something to hand, and enjoy a good yarn.
Happy Christmas.
Whimbrel sailing in Benfleet Creek with her usual seasonal topping... Picture: Dick Smith of the Benfleet YC.
I am listening to the forecasts intently for I am becoming 'desperate' for a sail! It has been such a poor autumn and early winter, however, ever hopeful, I am confident in getting out over the festive period at some point. The mate is keen too - even my mother who is with us for part of the period.
For all of you who are 'beached' until the boat goes in during next spring, it isn't so long to wait ... there are those memories to savour and enjoy and even recount to those that will listen...
For most it is a time to pick up that special book, settle back in a chair, with perhaps a glass of something to hand, and enjoy a good yarn.
Happy Christmas.
Posted on 24 Dec 2012 by admin
The Olympic Legacy
The Olympic 2012 year is rapidly drawing to a close and the hyperbole about The Legacy has been trundling along every week since the jamboree finished. The legacy means much to many people in so many different ways: it will either be a personal one or one that affects all sorts of clubs and sports providers across the breadth of the United Kingdom of GB & NI.
For me, narrowing it down to my chosen 'sport' of sailing, or yachting, it means one thing, hope.
Never mind what the doom and gloom media hype has been since this past summer, we on the east coast (Suffolk, Essex and North Kent) have done rather well. Yes it wasn't pleasant in some parts, being wetter than usual, but it comes to what one makes of it... (The autumn hasn't risen to my expectations and I'm rather glum for the lack of sailing, however...) What struck me most this year, and this has been a growing feeling based upon what can be seen, is that so many sailing (yachting too) clubs are stuffed full of disused or underused dinghies. Too many cruisers sit, patiently, swinging round a mooring or propping up a marina pontoon from one end of the season to another. Surely, I'm not the only one to have noticed this...?
So, what is my hope? It is this: that all or most of those craft that are currently neglected or little used regain the love they clearly once had and get used again.
Maybe it will take a new owner to do this, but my hope is that it will happen.
The boat show season is upon us too, soon. Slickly dressed men and women will be doing there damndest to persuade people to part with bucket loads of cash to buy some new fantasticly polished machine. Yet, out there, around the marinas and boat parks there are hundreds, thousands possibly, vessels of sizes to suit most people, waiting for that love to be lavished upon them...
Why does 'the first boat' have to be a thirty-four foot, one hundred and twenty thousand pound hi-tech floating marvel when so many possibilities can be bought for a fraction of that: an older craft with a little effort can be brought up to scratch, why?
A reader of mine from New Zeeland sent me a picture of his little craft. He has traded down in size and uses what is essentially a weekender to nip around the coastal areas, bays and creeks in the Auckland area. He told me it was a Swift - he can trail it to parts further afield too. It is a type of sailing enjoyed by some sailors in our countries and across Europe too. I bet most of them get more use out of their relatively cheap craft than most owners of the highly polished piece of GRP. (I have nothing against GRP, by the way...)
My 'little' brother moved to Cambridge a year or so ago and took up rowing. Now to me and my other siblings, when we think of rowing we think of our childhood efforts with the barge boat (belonging to a Thames Barge), or mine, now, being the 'engine' for my 9'6" dinghy.
Rowing on the Cam. My 'little' brother is at the front - bow man(?). I'm told 'they' were negotiating a sharp bend! Picture: C. Meyer
The boy has however come along. He's learnt the art of rowing 'hand above hand' - he explained it to me - and taken part in 'Bumps' races, where if bumped you drop out... he even sails his 1950s cold moulded dinghy on the Cam, darting amongst punters and rowers alike. But he's out there, doing it, making the most of his opportunities. He enjoys a week with me too, during the summer, and has already booked himself for a weekend in March ... for a jaunt around the Medway.
My hope is that all current boat owners make the most of what they've got too. That would be a real legacy for British sailing.
For me, narrowing it down to my chosen 'sport' of sailing, or yachting, it means one thing, hope.
Never mind what the doom and gloom media hype has been since this past summer, we on the east coast (Suffolk, Essex and North Kent) have done rather well. Yes it wasn't pleasant in some parts, being wetter than usual, but it comes to what one makes of it... (The autumn hasn't risen to my expectations and I'm rather glum for the lack of sailing, however...) What struck me most this year, and this has been a growing feeling based upon what can be seen, is that so many sailing (yachting too) clubs are stuffed full of disused or underused dinghies. Too many cruisers sit, patiently, swinging round a mooring or propping up a marina pontoon from one end of the season to another. Surely, I'm not the only one to have noticed this...?
So, what is my hope? It is this: that all or most of those craft that are currently neglected or little used regain the love they clearly once had and get used again.
Maybe it will take a new owner to do this, but my hope is that it will happen.
The boat show season is upon us too, soon. Slickly dressed men and women will be doing there damndest to persuade people to part with bucket loads of cash to buy some new fantasticly polished machine. Yet, out there, around the marinas and boat parks there are hundreds, thousands possibly, vessels of sizes to suit most people, waiting for that love to be lavished upon them...
Why does 'the first boat' have to be a thirty-four foot, one hundred and twenty thousand pound hi-tech floating marvel when so many possibilities can be bought for a fraction of that: an older craft with a little effort can be brought up to scratch, why?
A reader of mine from New Zeeland sent me a picture of his little craft. He has traded down in size and uses what is essentially a weekender to nip around the coastal areas, bays and creeks in the Auckland area. He told me it was a Swift - he can trail it to parts further afield too. It is a type of sailing enjoyed by some sailors in our countries and across Europe too. I bet most of them get more use out of their relatively cheap craft than most owners of the highly polished piece of GRP. (I have nothing against GRP, by the way...)
My 'little' brother moved to Cambridge a year or so ago and took up rowing. Now to me and my other siblings, when we think of rowing we think of our childhood efforts with the barge boat (belonging to a Thames Barge), or mine, now, being the 'engine' for my 9'6" dinghy.
Rowing on the Cam. My 'little' brother is at the front - bow man(?). I'm told 'they' were negotiating a sharp bend! Picture: C. Meyer
The boy has however come along. He's learnt the art of rowing 'hand above hand' - he explained it to me - and taken part in 'Bumps' races, where if bumped you drop out... he even sails his 1950s cold moulded dinghy on the Cam, darting amongst punters and rowers alike. But he's out there, doing it, making the most of his opportunities. He enjoys a week with me too, during the summer, and has already booked himself for a weekend in March ... for a jaunt around the Medway.
My hope is that all current boat owners make the most of what they've got too. That would be a real legacy for British sailing.
Posted on 09 Dec 2012 by admin
Ditch-crawler meets a sailing Bishop...
The mate and I attend our 'village' church on a fairly regular basis being good (?) Christians... Over the past three years the mate has been on a committee overseeing fund raising for a new building: the old, a WW1 army hut, erected around 1920 had reached the end of its life.
The new building was built over the summer and autumn and was consecrated by the Bishop of Bradwell yesterday (Sat 1st Dec). The new building sits at the edge of a field surrounded by the wonderful woodland in Daws Heath, which incidentally, is just a few steps from where all Finesse yachts were built... It is rather apt: the building is wood, made in Lapland and shipped over. Yesterday, its golden colour was mirrored in the last of the leaves clinging to the many mature oaks surrounding the field...
Talking to a gentle lady after the service, during a reception, I discovered I had been having a very amiable conversation with Mrs 'Bradwell'! The discussion fell into sailing: my mate happened to mention the glorious sail we'd enjoyed the previous day ... and I'd said we sail past the beautiful chapel of St Peter's-on-the-wall, regularly, during our sailing season. Then I said, feeling I was on holy ground, does the Bishop sail...?'
The answer, as the lady tugged at the Bishop's sleeve as he came up, was, 'This chap wants to know if you sail dear...'
Well, he does! It turns out the Bishop of Bradwell loves sailing but other things fill his life ... he'd had a sail down on the Solent recently (I said, 'I can forgive you that...!') and he has been out with the Apostleship of the Sea based at Tollesbury off the River Blackwater.
In for a penny, in for a pound, I gave a rapid fire advertising spiel on the east coast and its wonderful rivers. Answering a question about how long we'd had our boat ... both were flabbergasted and intrigued by the fact that our fine vessel was built a little way up the road from this inland church ... let alone it being thirty years ago. I was the more so: for meeting a sailing Bishop is not an everyday occurrence although we have taken several of our past vicars afloat when we lived on Canvey Island.
Back at sea though - on the sail enjoyed during idyllic conditions - the day before meeting the Sailing Bishop, we were followed by a young seal across the Leigh flats. It swam along in our wake, sometimes below and sometimes above the surface. All the time it had a smile on its face ... as we had on ours too. Wonderful...
A friend indeed...
Then there were the knot, swirling, swooping, and dancing above the marshes on the eastern end of Canvey Island. They were supreme masters of their art, ballerinas of the sky. It was beautiful.
Swirling knot, ballerinas of the sky...
The new building was built over the summer and autumn and was consecrated by the Bishop of Bradwell yesterday (Sat 1st Dec). The new building sits at the edge of a field surrounded by the wonderful woodland in Daws Heath, which incidentally, is just a few steps from where all Finesse yachts were built... It is rather apt: the building is wood, made in Lapland and shipped over. Yesterday, its golden colour was mirrored in the last of the leaves clinging to the many mature oaks surrounding the field...
Talking to a gentle lady after the service, during a reception, I discovered I had been having a very amiable conversation with Mrs 'Bradwell'! The discussion fell into sailing: my mate happened to mention the glorious sail we'd enjoyed the previous day ... and I'd said we sail past the beautiful chapel of St Peter's-on-the-wall, regularly, during our sailing season. Then I said, feeling I was on holy ground, does the Bishop sail...?'
The answer, as the lady tugged at the Bishop's sleeve as he came up, was, 'This chap wants to know if you sail dear...'
Well, he does! It turns out the Bishop of Bradwell loves sailing but other things fill his life ... he'd had a sail down on the Solent recently (I said, 'I can forgive you that...!') and he has been out with the Apostleship of the Sea based at Tollesbury off the River Blackwater.
In for a penny, in for a pound, I gave a rapid fire advertising spiel on the east coast and its wonderful rivers. Answering a question about how long we'd had our boat ... both were flabbergasted and intrigued by the fact that our fine vessel was built a little way up the road from this inland church ... let alone it being thirty years ago. I was the more so: for meeting a sailing Bishop is not an everyday occurrence although we have taken several of our past vicars afloat when we lived on Canvey Island.
Back at sea though - on the sail enjoyed during idyllic conditions - the day before meeting the Sailing Bishop, we were followed by a young seal across the Leigh flats. It swam along in our wake, sometimes below and sometimes above the surface. All the time it had a smile on its face ... as we had on ours too. Wonderful...
A friend indeed...
Then there were the knot, swirling, swooping, and dancing above the marshes on the eastern end of Canvey Island. They were supreme masters of their art, ballerinas of the sky. It was beautiful.
Swirling knot, ballerinas of the sky...
Posted on 02 Dec 2012 by admin
Ditch-crawler's Mum swallows the anchor...
My old mum, a doughty Essex Girl (long before the phrase was coined) spent 30 years on a Thames barge, keeping her in sailing condition for 25 of those, with her brood of children ... under my father's direction! They came ashore after the brood had all done runners...
Mother, as a bride on honeymoon, helming the May Flower in 1951.
During the past couple of decades of my own sailing life my Mother has often enjoyed time out on the water, either along the Medway or from my mooring in Smallgains Creek. She has often asked, '...I will get a sail, won't I...' in an almost pleading voice. The weather as always has been the final arbiter: taking a lady of around 80 afloat (or a man) with doddery legs is not something to take on lightly.
Her last sail was on Whimbrel back during the last few days of August. She has also enjoyed a sail on the Edith May, that lovely spritsail barge living in Lower Halstow's old barge dock.
During the spring of this year she made the decision to move closer to one of her off-spring ... initially she had looked at places near me in Hadleigh ... her final choice surprised all her family and others connected. The family announcement had come while I was enjoying a jar of Adnams at the Butt & Oyster at the top of Pin Mill's hard (we had a few further ales to toast her...) while enjoying a siblings' sail.
Last Thursday, the removal men arrived and packed her belongings up. My youngest brother was 'doing' that day, me the next. He and his partner took our Mother to the Edith May for lunch. It was a fitting thing to do.
The family grouped around Edith May's skipper's cabin table with a replica of May Flower's bob...
The tide was full, a spring one too, and the barge sat reflected in the glassy surface basking in glorious sunshine next to the old stone and flint church which seems always to float alongside the old dock. They all enjoyed a bargeman's stew and some of the barge's famous cakes. It was the next best thing to a sail...
Our Graham, now resident in New Foundland, 'captain' of a barge again ... mother's 80th bash aboard the Edith May. She had a trip to Southend Pier and around the Upchurch marshes that day...
I've been made to promise a sail next time she is close to the shores of the Thames. I don't think it will be at Christmas, but she did enjoy a sail on a Boxing Day two years ago... It'll be sometime next season, perhaps... Bless her!
Mother enjoying a Boxing Day sail in 2010...
Mother, as a bride on honeymoon, helming the May Flower in 1951.
During the past couple of decades of my own sailing life my Mother has often enjoyed time out on the water, either along the Medway or from my mooring in Smallgains Creek. She has often asked, '...I will get a sail, won't I...' in an almost pleading voice. The weather as always has been the final arbiter: taking a lady of around 80 afloat (or a man) with doddery legs is not something to take on lightly.
Her last sail was on Whimbrel back during the last few days of August. She has also enjoyed a sail on the Edith May, that lovely spritsail barge living in Lower Halstow's old barge dock.
During the spring of this year she made the decision to move closer to one of her off-spring ... initially she had looked at places near me in Hadleigh ... her final choice surprised all her family and others connected. The family announcement had come while I was enjoying a jar of Adnams at the Butt & Oyster at the top of Pin Mill's hard (we had a few further ales to toast her...) while enjoying a siblings' sail.
Last Thursday, the removal men arrived and packed her belongings up. My youngest brother was 'doing' that day, me the next. He and his partner took our Mother to the Edith May for lunch. It was a fitting thing to do.
The family grouped around Edith May's skipper's cabin table with a replica of May Flower's bob...
The tide was full, a spring one too, and the barge sat reflected in the glassy surface basking in glorious sunshine next to the old stone and flint church which seems always to float alongside the old dock. They all enjoyed a bargeman's stew and some of the barge's famous cakes. It was the next best thing to a sail...
Our Graham, now resident in New Foundland, 'captain' of a barge again ... mother's 80th bash aboard the Edith May. She had a trip to Southend Pier and around the Upchurch marshes that day...
I've been made to promise a sail next time she is close to the shores of the Thames. I don't think it will be at Christmas, but she did enjoy a sail on a Boxing Day two years ago... It'll be sometime next season, perhaps... Bless her!
Mother enjoying a Boxing Day sail in 2010...
Posted on 21 Nov 2012 by admin
Ditch-crawler in the sunset...
Last Monday I met a fellow Finesse man sailing down Benfleet Creek. His boat, as previously said, is Mariette, and we both took pictures of each other's craft as we slowly butted the still incoming tide on the way eastwards.
Two ladies meet off the Benfleet Yacht Club...
Josie, the other Finesse 24 new to the area, is still out of the water at the Dauntless Yard and is staying for the winter. Her new owners have stripped the hull and are busy getting her repainted, or varnished, before getting on with a few other jobs.
Anyway, Mariette and Whimbrel parted off the end of Canvey Island outside my creek. Dick had snapped away as the sun went down catching Whimbrel in silhouette as he wandered down the Ray to an anchorage for the night...
Whimbrel in silhouette creeping into Smallgains Creek...
There is another Finesse 24 at the Bridge Boatyard ... she awaits a keen new owner who can pull her back into condition again. She looks sound: surely her hull will be, but above water she looks a little tired – all that is needed is a will and to make an offer. I believe £4000 was mentioned to me by the yard, but go for it...
Both pictures by Dick Smith, Benfleet YC.
Two ladies meet off the Benfleet Yacht Club...
Josie, the other Finesse 24 new to the area, is still out of the water at the Dauntless Yard and is staying for the winter. Her new owners have stripped the hull and are busy getting her repainted, or varnished, before getting on with a few other jobs.
Anyway, Mariette and Whimbrel parted off the end of Canvey Island outside my creek. Dick had snapped away as the sun went down catching Whimbrel in silhouette as he wandered down the Ray to an anchorage for the night...
Whimbrel in silhouette creeping into Smallgains Creek...
There is another Finesse 24 at the Bridge Boatyard ... she awaits a keen new owner who can pull her back into condition again. She looks sound: surely her hull will be, but above water she looks a little tired – all that is needed is a will and to make an offer. I believe £4000 was mentioned to me by the yard, but go for it...
Both pictures by Dick Smith, Benfleet YC.
Posted on 09 Nov 2012 by admin
Whimbrel and Mariette meet...
Ah, my first sail for nearly three weeks, or was it more, a day or two anyway... It was sublime. There was a northerly, cold, crisp and purposeful. Going up Benfleet Creek I watched feeding Brent geese, noisily gabbling on a receding patch of mud - 'Bird Horse' I’m now calling it: as far as I'm aware it hasn't a name yet...
Brent geese lifting off from 'Bird Horse' next to Marks Marsh Island, Benfleet Creek.
The wind, as usual here, took on its own direction becoming more north-westerly because of the Hadleigh Downs, so I had to put in several tacks to make westwards.
It was beautiful - there were some clouds - the blue in the sky was intense. Across it, early wintering knot shimmied and skittered, sluicing the tops of the gently waving marsh plants in their aerial dances... I marvelled and thought, deeply, of my mate serving out the last few weeks in her 'gaol' of full time work...
Coming up towards the other island yacht club, The Benfleet, I spotted a red sail. 'Wow, its Dick...' I mouthed, grinning: it is always good to meet another Finesse on the water. Dick's boat is Mariette, a Finesse 24. She is number 5 too, an old lady in comparison to my (and the mate's) Whimbrel.
Approaching another lady...
After passing, I turned, on a sixpence, off the Benfleet's club house and ran/reached back to my moorings. On the way Dick and I had various conversations ... this was his first proper sail in the boat - he was loving it. Maybe, his large shiny glass fibre creation will spend more time at rest... Maybe!
Mariette, possibly the Benfleet's most beautiful vessel ... slipping along beneath Hadleigh Downs...
Brent geese lifting off from 'Bird Horse' next to Marks Marsh Island, Benfleet Creek.
The wind, as usual here, took on its own direction becoming more north-westerly because of the Hadleigh Downs, so I had to put in several tacks to make westwards.
It was beautiful - there were some clouds - the blue in the sky was intense. Across it, early wintering knot shimmied and skittered, sluicing the tops of the gently waving marsh plants in their aerial dances... I marvelled and thought, deeply, of my mate serving out the last few weeks in her 'gaol' of full time work...
Coming up towards the other island yacht club, The Benfleet, I spotted a red sail. 'Wow, its Dick...' I mouthed, grinning: it is always good to meet another Finesse on the water. Dick's boat is Mariette, a Finesse 24. She is number 5 too, an old lady in comparison to my (and the mate's) Whimbrel.
Approaching another lady...
After passing, I turned, on a sixpence, off the Benfleet's club house and ran/reached back to my moorings. On the way Dick and I had various conversations ... this was his first proper sail in the boat - he was loving it. Maybe, his large shiny glass fibre creation will spend more time at rest... Maybe!
Mariette, possibly the Benfleet's most beautiful vessel ... slipping along beneath Hadleigh Downs...
Posted on 06 Nov 2012 by admin
Ditch-crawler's chance meeting...
Me and the mate had gone to Chelmsford because the mate wanted to 'pop' into a particular shoe shop. It actually took us longer to have our coffee at one of those 'brand' places, unfortunately, than find the right shoes. Marvellous! Anyway, we then drove on to the Walton Backwaters area for a walk around parts we normally sail past...
Walking towards Landermere Quay we had seen a man some distance ahead of us going at around the same speed. Eventually he'd gone out of sight upon reaching the little settlement. I was stopping to take pictures too.
Upon reaching the quay we came up with the man and I commented on the way of the footpath: it wasn't clear. The man said, 'I'm a foreigner...' Well, although I thought he was a Sri Lankan - first thoughts can be deceptive!
'So are we...' we chorused together - strange how couples do that!
'No, really foreign ... from Sri Lanka...' the chap said, smiling broadly. He added, 'Do you know where I can get a drink?' I then told him about there having once been a pub by the quay ... but that the nearest pub or cafe was back on the road to Walton ... some distance away.
Landermere Quay where the chance meeting took place...
It turned out that he was on holiday in the UK and staying with friends. His pal, an accountant, was doing an audit at a firm locally ... going along for the ride the chap had gone for a stroll. We talked about the area and sailing. Well that was it: the chap pulled a card from his wallet and said, ' I own a marina and am building up a fleet of yachts for holiday hire ... the war is over now and we can go to the sea... Sailing is getting big back home...'
I passed him my card ... Anyway, the chap walked with us for around another hour or so and we finally left him to meet up with his pal who was ready to head off. The chap also knew the man that sent me some pictures a couple of years ago of GP14s and other dinghies sailing on Lake Bolgoda.
Amazingly, the chap's marina is on Lake Bolgoda, the lake I wrote about sailing on in a chapter in my last book. It was when I was at sea, professionally, with the Royal Fleet Auxiliary. Now, what are the chances of meeting someone residing in a place from so far off, with joint interests, and a place you've been to, on a damp sea wall round the Walton Backwaters.
I suppose on this tiny, tiny globe we live, with the means of mass travel at our disposal, the chances have clearly lessened...
We had our lunch sitting on a bench overlooking the rotting remains of Rose of Maldon ... marvelling at it all ... screened by shrubs...
Walking towards Landermere Quay we had seen a man some distance ahead of us going at around the same speed. Eventually he'd gone out of sight upon reaching the little settlement. I was stopping to take pictures too.
Upon reaching the quay we came up with the man and I commented on the way of the footpath: it wasn't clear. The man said, 'I'm a foreigner...' Well, although I thought he was a Sri Lankan - first thoughts can be deceptive!
'So are we...' we chorused together - strange how couples do that!
'No, really foreign ... from Sri Lanka...' the chap said, smiling broadly. He added, 'Do you know where I can get a drink?' I then told him about there having once been a pub by the quay ... but that the nearest pub or cafe was back on the road to Walton ... some distance away.
Landermere Quay where the chance meeting took place...
It turned out that he was on holiday in the UK and staying with friends. His pal, an accountant, was doing an audit at a firm locally ... going along for the ride the chap had gone for a stroll. We talked about the area and sailing. Well that was it: the chap pulled a card from his wallet and said, ' I own a marina and am building up a fleet of yachts for holiday hire ... the war is over now and we can go to the sea... Sailing is getting big back home...'
I passed him my card ... Anyway, the chap walked with us for around another hour or so and we finally left him to meet up with his pal who was ready to head off. The chap also knew the man that sent me some pictures a couple of years ago of GP14s and other dinghies sailing on Lake Bolgoda.
Amazingly, the chap's marina is on Lake Bolgoda, the lake I wrote about sailing on in a chapter in my last book. It was when I was at sea, professionally, with the Royal Fleet Auxiliary. Now, what are the chances of meeting someone residing in a place from so far off, with joint interests, and a place you've been to, on a damp sea wall round the Walton Backwaters.
I suppose on this tiny, tiny globe we live, with the means of mass travel at our disposal, the chances have clearly lessened...
We had our lunch sitting on a bench overlooking the rotting remains of Rose of Maldon ... marvelling at it all ... screened by shrubs...
Posted on 26 Oct 2012 by admin
Southend Book & Arts Fair
Well, I didn't really know what to expect from this event, however, it was superb. It was well managed in the concourse area of The Victoria Shopping Centre.
The event was opened by David Amess the local MP who then went round all the stalls for a chat with each participant.
Nick 'making' an MP listen...
The event was well attended by the public right from the beginning. The ambiance was good - though some live music was a little too loud at times... As a 'arts' mix it went well.
The enthusiasm of people to talk about books was great, even if none were purchased directly. I had a good day though and my time was not wasted. 'Wasted' is a loose word: time spent with prospective readers is always worthwhile. (I wonder if I have persuaded David Amess to look at my May Flower book...)
I was aware of a chap standing across the table from me as another person moved away - the chap had driven over from somewhere near Ashford (Kent) to see me ... he'd the previous day finished reading Mudlarking and was ecstatic with it. He went away with two further books...
What was even more fascinating was that he was the owner of a Finesse 24. The boat is sail number 2, dating from 1970 - he plans to join the proposed meet of Finesse class yachts on the Medway next year too.
I'm a big fan of the Essex Book Festival and hope to be at it in some capacity next year - even it is just for the opening of the event. This Southend-on-Sea Fair adds to the 'Essex' portfolio, complimenting the County package. I thoroughly enjoyed it ...
I had the pleasure of meeting many differing authors and had long natters with; Sylvia Kent - a well respected author and jounalist; Dee Gordon of many 'Essex' books fame; and Ian Yearsley, many differing books, but the one I treasure of his and keep on the boat is his, Islands of Essex.
My stall ... taken by the mate before the start... Ian Yearsley and Dee Gordon are talking beyond.
I was supported by the mate who even managed to talk a lady into buying a book ... while I took a break to get a sandwich and a spot of fresh air...
If you live in the Essex area, then this event should be on your list of things to look out for in 2013 ... I'll see you there!
See: www.sylviakent.blogspot.com for more info too...
The event was opened by David Amess the local MP who then went round all the stalls for a chat with each participant.
Nick 'making' an MP listen...
The event was well attended by the public right from the beginning. The ambiance was good - though some live music was a little too loud at times... As a 'arts' mix it went well.
The enthusiasm of people to talk about books was great, even if none were purchased directly. I had a good day though and my time was not wasted. 'Wasted' is a loose word: time spent with prospective readers is always worthwhile. (I wonder if I have persuaded David Amess to look at my May Flower book...)
I was aware of a chap standing across the table from me as another person moved away - the chap had driven over from somewhere near Ashford (Kent) to see me ... he'd the previous day finished reading Mudlarking and was ecstatic with it. He went away with two further books...
What was even more fascinating was that he was the owner of a Finesse 24. The boat is sail number 2, dating from 1970 - he plans to join the proposed meet of Finesse class yachts on the Medway next year too.
I'm a big fan of the Essex Book Festival and hope to be at it in some capacity next year - even it is just for the opening of the event. This Southend-on-Sea Fair adds to the 'Essex' portfolio, complimenting the County package. I thoroughly enjoyed it ...
I had the pleasure of meeting many differing authors and had long natters with; Sylvia Kent - a well respected author and jounalist; Dee Gordon of many 'Essex' books fame; and Ian Yearsley, many differing books, but the one I treasure of his and keep on the boat is his, Islands of Essex.
My stall ... taken by the mate before the start... Ian Yearsley and Dee Gordon are talking beyond.
I was supported by the mate who even managed to talk a lady into buying a book ... while I took a break to get a sandwich and a spot of fresh air...
If you live in the Essex area, then this event should be on your list of things to look out for in 2013 ... I'll see you there!
See: www.sylviakent.blogspot.com for more info too...
Posted on 21 Oct 2012 by admin
Smallgains Creek Buoys
Creek buoys are anchored in many of the small creeks around the east coast, and others further away, surely. They are often placed at some expense by a local sailing/boating club or small yard with the sole intention to make the passage into out of the way places, especially for visitors, far simpler and trouble free.
I have used many a buoyed creek system to enter places that most boaters sail past - fascinating scenes can often be experienced ... creeping up past wooded slopes, banks of mud, and marsh deeply scented ... a quaint boat yard, as at Martlesham for instance...
Like most creeks, my local creek, Smallgains, was once fitted with a trail of withies which got broken and sat, nastily, beneath the surface awaiting an unsuspecting propeller - it happened to me and I last a chunk of a blade. Then an indomitable sailor from the creek fitted a run of red cans, marking the turns on one side. I took over from that chap some ten years ago now ... the old boy is still sailing at around ninety, bless him. And he walks out to the end of my club's mooring jetties to inspect them ... often passing a sage like comment.
After the creek was dredged and profiled a new set of red and green lit buoys was instituted. Very useful they have become too... The buoys take a reasonable amount of time in their care and maintenance ... strangely, in out part of the world, few offers of help ever made!
In the past month someone, an Island YC member, a boat owner from Smallgains Marina or a visitor has done their best to demolish two of the buoys.
One of the buoys is a home-made affair, but an effective lit unit none-the-less. It had its top carved away.
'Oh dear, I've lost my hat...'
The other, a foam-filled (luckily) unit has had a chunk carved out of its side and is gradually soaking fluids... It'll have to be replaced at up to £400 including VAT. Not cheap eh!
If left, this buoy will eventually sink... Note the 'deliberate' mistake ... numbering was done by an old club sage, now deceased. His ashes laugh at us from the Thames!
Pity the owner(s) didn't report the incident(s).
I have used many a buoyed creek system to enter places that most boaters sail past - fascinating scenes can often be experienced ... creeping up past wooded slopes, banks of mud, and marsh deeply scented ... a quaint boat yard, as at Martlesham for instance...
Like most creeks, my local creek, Smallgains, was once fitted with a trail of withies which got broken and sat, nastily, beneath the surface awaiting an unsuspecting propeller - it happened to me and I last a chunk of a blade. Then an indomitable sailor from the creek fitted a run of red cans, marking the turns on one side. I took over from that chap some ten years ago now ... the old boy is still sailing at around ninety, bless him. And he walks out to the end of my club's mooring jetties to inspect them ... often passing a sage like comment.
After the creek was dredged and profiled a new set of red and green lit buoys was instituted. Very useful they have become too... The buoys take a reasonable amount of time in their care and maintenance ... strangely, in out part of the world, few offers of help ever made!
In the past month someone, an Island YC member, a boat owner from Smallgains Marina or a visitor has done their best to demolish two of the buoys.
One of the buoys is a home-made affair, but an effective lit unit none-the-less. It had its top carved away.
'Oh dear, I've lost my hat...'
The other, a foam-filled (luckily) unit has had a chunk carved out of its side and is gradually soaking fluids... It'll have to be replaced at up to £400 including VAT. Not cheap eh!
If left, this buoy will eventually sink... Note the 'deliberate' mistake ... numbering was done by an old club sage, now deceased. His ashes laugh at us from the Thames!
Pity the owner(s) didn't report the incident(s).
Posted on 16 Oct 2012 by admin
Autumn Sailing...
What a gorgeous autumn afternoon it has been today. A perfect blue sky, sunshine and a breeze to sail in with little effort - though he mate, on the Genoa sheets, had a little work to do!
The previous week had had some lovely days too; however the tides and daylight hours didn't suit. I lost an opportunity the week before that, so it had been two whole weeks without a sail. During that time I had checked our creek's buoy anchor chains and proved all light operative. I'd also dragged the mate out over the marsh and mud to 'bash' down an old steel water tank while I cut down a pole sticking out of the surface - which had once been part of a beacon on the Canvey Marsh Point some years ago. Due to erosion it had 'moved away' from the point...
Scouring is taking place around that position and deeper water, by a few centimetres, has crept towards what had been marshes a few seasons ago. The pole bothered me: it was often just seen when crossing the shallow swatch after leaving the creek as early was possible... The mate saw it and had said, 'I'll help clear that...' during a sail in September - bless her!
The point used to have a small ship breaking concern around its northern side - that was up to sometime in the late 1950s or thereabout. Debris left around the site now largely sits out in the open and much of it to the east of the marsh point. A buoy, an east cardinal, has been placed off the point to take vessels through good water.
Anyway, back to the sail... The colours along the base of the sea wall and in the marshes were stupendous. Away over the hills, so recently filmed by the World's media during the Olympic Cycling Jamboree, the trees and scrub are taking on a definite seasonal hue. Tacking up past Two Tree Island a spread of white sails were spotted clearing the moorings at the eastern end of the Benfleet club's trots. They were budding Laser champions. It soon became obvious that two of the craft were well ahead of the fleet's body.
Coming up astern of us was a string of BYC craft returning from a weekend night away. I was jealous; however, yesterday we were in London to see, The Taming of the Shrew, at the Globe ... brilliant it was too! A few deft tacks ensured the motoring BYC boats didn't have to deviate or move into water that was less than, 'a several fold margin' ... I've had a comment in the past ... and often sail in the plentiful water clear of motoring craft, tacking even...
Towards high water we turned as we reached the mooring trots and ran effortlessly eastwards, towards home. The Lasers came slowly past us too, on their second circuit, some, strangely, under the sea wall where the wind was even less! Others had set a course down the shallows and came inside us even further out of the main tidal stream, slowly catching the boats on the 'wrong' side of creek. But, they kept it, as far as was seen, as they all tacked on the last of the flood homewards. The stragglers would have been sailing against the ebb, surely.
Sailing on a blissful day surrounded by budding Laser class Olympians...
Dropping the mainsail off the eastern end of Two Tree Island we jogged slowly back and into the creek ... until I finally started the diesel to take us up the final leg and into the mooring ... the wind not being conducive to sailing in! While out swarms of Brent geese flew from their feeding grounds around the mudflats to the rills around Canvey's marshes. The terns have gone now too ... but the knot haven’t arrived yet. It'll not be long.
At the end the mate felt happy for a sail, loving seeing the water into the saltings. I was grinning: I'd missed my weekly fix!
The previous week had had some lovely days too; however the tides and daylight hours didn't suit. I lost an opportunity the week before that, so it had been two whole weeks without a sail. During that time I had checked our creek's buoy anchor chains and proved all light operative. I'd also dragged the mate out over the marsh and mud to 'bash' down an old steel water tank while I cut down a pole sticking out of the surface - which had once been part of a beacon on the Canvey Marsh Point some years ago. Due to erosion it had 'moved away' from the point...
Scouring is taking place around that position and deeper water, by a few centimetres, has crept towards what had been marshes a few seasons ago. The pole bothered me: it was often just seen when crossing the shallow swatch after leaving the creek as early was possible... The mate saw it and had said, 'I'll help clear that...' during a sail in September - bless her!
The point used to have a small ship breaking concern around its northern side - that was up to sometime in the late 1950s or thereabout. Debris left around the site now largely sits out in the open and much of it to the east of the marsh point. A buoy, an east cardinal, has been placed off the point to take vessels through good water.
Anyway, back to the sail... The colours along the base of the sea wall and in the marshes were stupendous. Away over the hills, so recently filmed by the World's media during the Olympic Cycling Jamboree, the trees and scrub are taking on a definite seasonal hue. Tacking up past Two Tree Island a spread of white sails were spotted clearing the moorings at the eastern end of the Benfleet club's trots. They were budding Laser champions. It soon became obvious that two of the craft were well ahead of the fleet's body.
Coming up astern of us was a string of BYC craft returning from a weekend night away. I was jealous; however, yesterday we were in London to see, The Taming of the Shrew, at the Globe ... brilliant it was too! A few deft tacks ensured the motoring BYC boats didn't have to deviate or move into water that was less than, 'a several fold margin' ... I've had a comment in the past ... and often sail in the plentiful water clear of motoring craft, tacking even...
Towards high water we turned as we reached the mooring trots and ran effortlessly eastwards, towards home. The Lasers came slowly past us too, on their second circuit, some, strangely, under the sea wall where the wind was even less! Others had set a course down the shallows and came inside us even further out of the main tidal stream, slowly catching the boats on the 'wrong' side of creek. But, they kept it, as far as was seen, as they all tacked on the last of the flood homewards. The stragglers would have been sailing against the ebb, surely.
Sailing on a blissful day surrounded by budding Laser class Olympians...
Dropping the mainsail off the eastern end of Two Tree Island we jogged slowly back and into the creek ... until I finally started the diesel to take us up the final leg and into the mooring ... the wind not being conducive to sailing in! While out swarms of Brent geese flew from their feeding grounds around the mudflats to the rills around Canvey's marshes. The terns have gone now too ... but the knot haven’t arrived yet. It'll not be long.
At the end the mate felt happy for a sail, loving seeing the water into the saltings. I was grinning: I'd missed my weekly fix!
Posted on 14 Oct 2012 by admin
Finesse class yacht meet proposal - 2013 on R. Medway.
This 'blog' is aimed at Finesse class yacht owners and is a repeat of an item on the class web site.
Hi All Finesse Owners,
I have for sometime been thinking about a class meet in the Lower Thames region. Other owners have also mentioned it to me in discussion, so an attempt is being made. I have accepted the task of co-ordinating this...
There are around ten boat owners who have so far given me the thumbs up.
It is proposed to meet on the River Medway over the late May Bank Holiday in 2013.
A typical River Medway summer scene - the VIC 56 Puffer and spritsail barge Whippet off Upnor.
The venue still has to be decided. I have made contact with two of the river's larger clubs and will talk to a number of people before a decision is made. These are the Medway YC and the Hoo Ness YC. There is a silled marina at Hoo - this would be a good place. Access is plus 3 hours either side for our vessel types. It has been suggested as a good place: access to and from boats and meeting would be so much easier and convenient.
The tides for that particular weekend are around the noon span which is good. For some it would probably mean a Friday off work... They are also springs.
Tides are for Southend/Sheerness:
Friday 24 May: HW 1234 5.8m, LW 1855 0.7m
Saturday 25 May: HW 0053 5.8m, LW 0726 0.5m, HW 1320 6.0m, LW 1947 0.5m.
Sunday 26 May: HW 0141 6.0m, LW 0813 0.4m, HW 1407 6.0m, LW 2037 0.4m.
Monday 27 May: HW 0231 6.1m, LW 0857 0.4m, HW 1454 6.1m
The timings would allow a pre-meet in Queenborough or Stangate on the Friday before taking the Saturday morning tide up the Medway.
A buffet meal would be a good idea for the Saturday. I'm am talking to the two prospective hosts about this arrangement.
I would suggest a sail to Stangate for Sunday gathering in amongst the marshes - in the spirit of Alan's (& Laurie's - not forgetting MG's AP inspired 28) yachts. With the height of tides a wandering passage through the 'back' channels could be done ... far more interesting.
Of course a two night stay at the host venue is also an option. I feel that sailing/use is pre-eminent, but am open to your ideas.
What is needed first is an idea on numbers.
Whimbrel in the Wallet - down which some of you will be coming... Picture by Derek Hall, RNSA
I can be contacted through my web site (in the public domain google Nick Ardley) or by looking at email address on the Finesse google site.
I look forward to all your thoughts.
Nick
Whimbrel.
Hi All Finesse Owners,
I have for sometime been thinking about a class meet in the Lower Thames region. Other owners have also mentioned it to me in discussion, so an attempt is being made. I have accepted the task of co-ordinating this...
There are around ten boat owners who have so far given me the thumbs up.
It is proposed to meet on the River Medway over the late May Bank Holiday in 2013.
A typical River Medway summer scene - the VIC 56 Puffer and spritsail barge Whippet off Upnor.
The venue still has to be decided. I have made contact with two of the river's larger clubs and will talk to a number of people before a decision is made. These are the Medway YC and the Hoo Ness YC. There is a silled marina at Hoo - this would be a good place. Access is plus 3 hours either side for our vessel types. It has been suggested as a good place: access to and from boats and meeting would be so much easier and convenient.
The tides for that particular weekend are around the noon span which is good. For some it would probably mean a Friday off work... They are also springs.
Tides are for Southend/Sheerness:
Friday 24 May: HW 1234 5.8m, LW 1855 0.7m
Saturday 25 May: HW 0053 5.8m, LW 0726 0.5m, HW 1320 6.0m, LW 1947 0.5m.
Sunday 26 May: HW 0141 6.0m, LW 0813 0.4m, HW 1407 6.0m, LW 2037 0.4m.
Monday 27 May: HW 0231 6.1m, LW 0857 0.4m, HW 1454 6.1m
The timings would allow a pre-meet in Queenborough or Stangate on the Friday before taking the Saturday morning tide up the Medway.
A buffet meal would be a good idea for the Saturday. I'm am talking to the two prospective hosts about this arrangement.
I would suggest a sail to Stangate for Sunday gathering in amongst the marshes - in the spirit of Alan's (& Laurie's - not forgetting MG's AP inspired 28) yachts. With the height of tides a wandering passage through the 'back' channels could be done ... far more interesting.
Of course a two night stay at the host venue is also an option. I feel that sailing/use is pre-eminent, but am open to your ideas.
What is needed first is an idea on numbers.
Whimbrel in the Wallet - down which some of you will be coming... Picture by Derek Hall, RNSA
I can be contacted through my web site (in the public domain google Nick Ardley) or by looking at email address on the Finesse google site.
I look forward to all your thoughts.
Nick
Whimbrel.
Posted on 23 Sep 2012 by admin
A 'new' Finesse 24 arrives home...
Towards the end of a cracking Sunday sail we watched as Mariette, a gaff rigged Finesse 24 came motoring up past Smallgains Creek on her way up to the island's other club, the Benfleet. She has recently been purchased by a Benfleet member, Dick Smith (He won't mind being mentioned), who sails a large powerful modern sloop during the summer, but has used a Crabber for winter sailing for some years - now sold. We have often met out on the water on a crisp day...
I had spotted the boat earlier whilst coming across the Leigh sands from poking our bows into the Leigh Regatta. It had obviously - to me - been a long plug under power down the Swin for her, along the Warps and into home waters. A couple of days ago the wind was to be a north-westerly, however, west-southwest was what we got - typical.
Dick Smith's Mariette motoring up past the Island YC creek entrance on her way to the Benfleet club. Note, Dick is photographing us too!
Today was the mate's first outing on a Sunday during school term time for a very long time ... I could find out when by scouring the log books, however, there are better things to do. We had a cracking beat up towards the 'Benfleet' before turning tale and running back out. We turned much earlier than I usually do because dinghies were spotted heading down and space was becoming tighter with a continuous stream of craft heading home ... it didn't seem fair to put any frighteners on anyone. The open waters will return come Monday...
Sailing round the eastern edge of Two Tree Island a small group of early birds were seen - the mate got quite excited - they were the first of our assignment of Brent geese. Pretty early really. The last of them didn't go until the beginning of June either. Perhaps there is a hard winter on its way up in northern Russia.
The Leigh waterfront seemed not to be overly busy for the second day of the Old Leigh Regatta. There weren't any cruisers going through their paces, however, it had been the fore-shore combined clubs' race to Upnor as well - something that tends to draw a large fleet of racers and those going along for the beer. Yesterday would have been manic down at Leigh... Pity the rebuilt cockler Endeavour wasn't out sailing and showing off what the lottery funded for local people... Great shame: one hardly ever sees her out.
Anyway, after sailing east, from the Billet, down the shore a little we high tailed it out to the Ray and gilled around until Mariette came past. Alan (platt) would be proud to know the area has the largest fleet of 24s and 21s for many years.
I had spotted the boat earlier whilst coming across the Leigh sands from poking our bows into the Leigh Regatta. It had obviously - to me - been a long plug under power down the Swin for her, along the Warps and into home waters. A couple of days ago the wind was to be a north-westerly, however, west-southwest was what we got - typical.
Dick Smith's Mariette motoring up past the Island YC creek entrance on her way to the Benfleet club. Note, Dick is photographing us too!
Today was the mate's first outing on a Sunday during school term time for a very long time ... I could find out when by scouring the log books, however, there are better things to do. We had a cracking beat up towards the 'Benfleet' before turning tale and running back out. We turned much earlier than I usually do because dinghies were spotted heading down and space was becoming tighter with a continuous stream of craft heading home ... it didn't seem fair to put any frighteners on anyone. The open waters will return come Monday...
Sailing round the eastern edge of Two Tree Island a small group of early birds were seen - the mate got quite excited - they were the first of our assignment of Brent geese. Pretty early really. The last of them didn't go until the beginning of June either. Perhaps there is a hard winter on its way up in northern Russia.
The Leigh waterfront seemed not to be overly busy for the second day of the Old Leigh Regatta. There weren't any cruisers going through their paces, however, it had been the fore-shore combined clubs' race to Upnor as well - something that tends to draw a large fleet of racers and those going along for the beer. Yesterday would have been manic down at Leigh... Pity the rebuilt cockler Endeavour wasn't out sailing and showing off what the lottery funded for local people... Great shame: one hardly ever sees her out.
Anyway, after sailing east, from the Billet, down the shore a little we high tailed it out to the Ray and gilled around until Mariette came past. Alan (platt) would be proud to know the area has the largest fleet of 24s and 21s for many years.
Posted on 16 Sep 2012 by admin
Ditch-crawler renamed...
Some while ago I took a chap that originally hailed from Leigh-on-Sea who also has long family connections in Fobbing and now a resident of New Zealand for a sail. Well, during that sail, when not at the helm, he was busy with a camera which I learnt also took moving pictures...
The results can be found on youtube, titled, The Guru of the Creeks: http://youtube.be/Oce1zwINrQ8
It was a gentle sail on a late afternoon tide up Benfleet Creek beneath the Olympic mountain bike course. A thunderstorm appeared, circled and went away providing a spectacular backdrop above Canvey Island. Enjoy!
Our Storm! Courtesy of Paul Mullings - New Zealand
I'm not sure if the new 'title' fits though!
Other ramblings:
Things have hotted up on the Finesse front along my local waterfront: yet another F24 is to return home. She is Mariette - the sail number is not yet known. The boat has previously been based on the Deben and had a mooring outside the Tide Mill Marina - where I saw her in July. She is a gaff rigged version.
The new owner plans to sail down the coast over the weekend arriving at Benfleet on the afternoon tide on Sunday... The mate and I will probably be out there too, to show our respects.
There is now quite a fleet of F24s in a small area ... perhaps a Finesse meet should be planned?
Another thing came my way from an old sea dog from these parts...
The East Anglia Film Archive has a film of the 60th anniversary of Southend-on-Sea Corporation. Within the film is a lengthy run of the 1964 Southend Thames sailing barge match in which my childhood home appears ... some of the 'talk' about the match is incorrect, but never mind. The voice over refers to the May of 1888 being the oldest vessel ... when he meant to say May Flower! It is quite good though.
The film also has a section on a powerboat race off the sea front - quite exciting and wow look what the drivers were wearing.
Enjoy.
The results can be found on youtube, titled, The Guru of the Creeks: http://youtube.be/Oce1zwINrQ8
It was a gentle sail on a late afternoon tide up Benfleet Creek beneath the Olympic mountain bike course. A thunderstorm appeared, circled and went away providing a spectacular backdrop above Canvey Island. Enjoy!
Our Storm! Courtesy of Paul Mullings - New Zealand
I'm not sure if the new 'title' fits though!
Other ramblings:
Things have hotted up on the Finesse front along my local waterfront: yet another F24 is to return home. She is Mariette - the sail number is not yet known. The boat has previously been based on the Deben and had a mooring outside the Tide Mill Marina - where I saw her in July. She is a gaff rigged version.
The new owner plans to sail down the coast over the weekend arriving at Benfleet on the afternoon tide on Sunday... The mate and I will probably be out there too, to show our respects.
There is now quite a fleet of F24s in a small area ... perhaps a Finesse meet should be planned?
Another thing came my way from an old sea dog from these parts...
The East Anglia Film Archive has a film of the 60th anniversary of Southend-on-Sea Corporation. Within the film is a lengthy run of the 1964 Southend Thames sailing barge match in which my childhood home appears ... some of the 'talk' about the match is incorrect, but never mind. The voice over refers to the May of 1888 being the oldest vessel ... when he meant to say May Flower! It is quite good though.
The film also has a section on a powerboat race off the sea front - quite exciting and wow look what the drivers were wearing.
Enjoy.
Posted on 12 Sep 2012 by admin
Edith May
Readers of my pages may be interested to know that the Edith May carries, when home for the 'winter', a small selection of my books which are signed. Go to the barge's web site for details of when Lower Halstow's now famous tea rooms are open.
www.edithmaybargecharter.co.uk
The barge is lovely and pure nostalgia pervades. When below eating a tea or light luncheon, a timeless slowness soothes. It is not difficult sitting back to see the hold cleared and a cargo of bricks piling up around you... Outside, in her old brick works berth, beside the church on its river edge mound it seems as if the world has stopped...
Go, see her, and enjoy.
Edith May rests at the end of the day...
www.edithmaybargecharter.co.uk
The barge is lovely and pure nostalgia pervades. When below eating a tea or light luncheon, a timeless slowness soothes. It is not difficult sitting back to see the hold cleared and a cargo of bricks piling up around you... Outside, in her old brick works berth, beside the church on its river edge mound it seems as if the world has stopped...
Go, see her, and enjoy.
Edith May rests at the end of the day...
Posted on 11 Sep 2012 by admin
Some quiet sailing news
A couple of weeks ago now my 81 year old mother came to stay ... before coming she had asked, '...I will be able to get a sail, won't I...?’ in a pleading voice. A quick glance at the tide tables confirmed water - the rest I asked her to pray for, but the weather had been sublime (and continued for several weeks like it...)
My mother, at 81, helming below the church she was married in way back in the autumn of 1951.
Another of my dear mum's wishes was a visit to the Greenwich Maritime Museum ... we went and found ourselves mixed in with many people making the trek to a horse event at the Olympic venue - wow what a set up! We were directed by many pink clad helpers - only I knew where I was going and didn't need help ... and wasn't going where they were directing me. I smiled and muttered about escaping back to the boat. But, yes, I feel these volunteers worked wonders - probably made the summer jamboree what it was. (I don't like being told '...have a nice day now...')
At the museum we duly visited the wonderful exhibition on the Thames Pageants with other paraphernalia added in. It was good, but I expected more about the water. There are uniforms galore from the many livery 'companies' and there was a mass of stuff from the Royal Yachts of late Victorian age - the Albert’s. One exhibit was of a binnacle - difficult to see what it was unless you knew: it was set up high ... loads of glorified scroll, paintwork and such. The binnacle part - well it was beyond view... I raised it with a curator, however small the chance it would be raised.
We passed that spectacle sat close to the waterfront too. My dear old mum was flabbergasted - 'What have they done to her she asked.
'Its not a "her"...' I said, 'it’s a building, grade listed too...' she grimaced upon being asked if she wanted to visit... I'm glad! This was on the way to the river: she'd wanted to take a boat trip down to the barrier ... kids eh!
All the time this was happening, bits were chipping away from a front wheel on our hired wheelchair - the thing was a disaster, but less about that. She'll get another sail, surely...
My dear mate has now gone part time now ... wonderful. We’ll be poorer, yet richer in the time spent together in what we can do and enjoy... Leaving the creek on Friday afternoon, last week, the mate, looking at her watch suddenly laughed, loudly, - 'the kids are just coming out...' she said, tittering again! I grinned at her as I put the kettle on.
We had a lovely sail over to Stangate for the night. The evening was a peach. And it ws the more lovely when the stars appeared, then, later a perfect half moon rose from behind Queenborough over Chetney Marsh.
The quiet of an evening along the edge of the Greenborough marshes in Stangate Creek.
Leaving in the morning we slowly puttered past, motor-sailing, an old friend, once belonging to a family friend, retired ships' captain and east coast seadog... Her name is Breeze, boy I thought, remembering her name, we could do with one. It came later, much later, after we had motored back to the Ray!
Later in the Ray we met our closest sister, a Finesse 24, number 63. She has been recently purchased by a dinghy sailing family with a view to getting her back up to scratch and enjoying her obvious comforts - good on them, I say.
My mother, at 81, helming below the church she was married in way back in the autumn of 1951.
Another of my dear mum's wishes was a visit to the Greenwich Maritime Museum ... we went and found ourselves mixed in with many people making the trek to a horse event at the Olympic venue - wow what a set up! We were directed by many pink clad helpers - only I knew where I was going and didn't need help ... and wasn't going where they were directing me. I smiled and muttered about escaping back to the boat. But, yes, I feel these volunteers worked wonders - probably made the summer jamboree what it was. (I don't like being told '...have a nice day now...')
At the museum we duly visited the wonderful exhibition on the Thames Pageants with other paraphernalia added in. It was good, but I expected more about the water. There are uniforms galore from the many livery 'companies' and there was a mass of stuff from the Royal Yachts of late Victorian age - the Albert’s. One exhibit was of a binnacle - difficult to see what it was unless you knew: it was set up high ... loads of glorified scroll, paintwork and such. The binnacle part - well it was beyond view... I raised it with a curator, however small the chance it would be raised.
We passed that spectacle sat close to the waterfront too. My dear old mum was flabbergasted - 'What have they done to her she asked.
'Its not a "her"...' I said, 'it’s a building, grade listed too...' she grimaced upon being asked if she wanted to visit... I'm glad! This was on the way to the river: she'd wanted to take a boat trip down to the barrier ... kids eh!
All the time this was happening, bits were chipping away from a front wheel on our hired wheelchair - the thing was a disaster, but less about that. She'll get another sail, surely...
My dear mate has now gone part time now ... wonderful. We’ll be poorer, yet richer in the time spent together in what we can do and enjoy... Leaving the creek on Friday afternoon, last week, the mate, looking at her watch suddenly laughed, loudly, - 'the kids are just coming out...' she said, tittering again! I grinned at her as I put the kettle on.
We had a lovely sail over to Stangate for the night. The evening was a peach. And it ws the more lovely when the stars appeared, then, later a perfect half moon rose from behind Queenborough over Chetney Marsh.
The quiet of an evening along the edge of the Greenborough marshes in Stangate Creek.
Leaving in the morning we slowly puttered past, motor-sailing, an old friend, once belonging to a family friend, retired ships' captain and east coast seadog... Her name is Breeze, boy I thought, remembering her name, we could do with one. It came later, much later, after we had motored back to the Ray!
Later in the Ray we met our closest sister, a Finesse 24, number 63. She has been recently purchased by a dinghy sailing family with a view to getting her back up to scratch and enjoying her obvious comforts - good on them, I say.
Posted on 10 Sep 2012 by admin
Ditch-crawler - Where are you?
Well I'm ashore, longest spell on dry land since 20 June of this year. The question came about because my big brother called from Canada - he'd attempted to make contact a couple of weeks earlier and not getting a sensible response from the telephone ... checked my web site instead!
The mate just grinned: she'd pushed me to get with it and be modern - well within reason, any way! He'd guessed, correctly, that I was somewhere around the Swale - bang on, at the time!
We had a delightful couple of weeks pottering around the Swale and Medway delta - to us: I include my mate here, it is the finest of pottering grounds. It all seems an age ago now though.
During our time around 'home' waters we 'pulled' one boat off the mud and rescued a broken down speed boat during that time too. The first has aready been mentioned... The speed boat was a little different. The owner had no radio or chart ... not even an OS map ... which would have served them almost as well. They had mobiles though...! We were sailing round Hoo Island when we spotted them drifting amongst the old vessels hulked along the islands's eastern shore... They'd clearly a broken drive pin ... tide had turned and by the time we got back, after dropping sails, were on passage across the open water with other craft ignoring them - that I found a little troubling.
The boat was towed to Gillingham slip and we saw them reach the shore. Apart from a terminated sail round through Hoo Creek and burning a few cups of diesel, we felt as if we had been of help ... one day it might be us!
I also met the Doris and her very pleasant owner, Denis and his charming young lad Deben, in Sharfleet. I'd been poking around ashore looking at some stuff ... they came over and Denis took me off to find something else that I had had two searches for - the 'what' will have to wait until I can get published again!
One of the interesting things we did was to take the first of the flood into Milford Hope Creek up to Shorgates little gutway. Well by the time we got there after a slow tack with a gentle breeze we were able to fetch in past a line of withies. These run past the dock's entrance and out towards the wide open Upchurch flats and Half Acre Creek. We grounded for a short while a little past a withy (on the east side of the gutway) on the edge of the old 'roadway' out over Slayhills marshes.
Sailing into the entrance to Shoregate Dock creek and way across the old Slayhills Marsh roadway.
The channel is well used by the sailing barge Edith May and the withy has a top mark. To the south, beyond Milfordhope Creek's run in towards my old home May Flower's berth, there are two withies that mark the way across the old strayway that went out towards Milfordhope Marsh. The mud has reached up to the wasted road between these marks and provided you can float, then a safe passage across to Lower Halstow Creek, or out of Twinney, can be made.
Looking back towards the two withies marking the passage over the old strayway.
The mate just grinned: she'd pushed me to get with it and be modern - well within reason, any way! He'd guessed, correctly, that I was somewhere around the Swale - bang on, at the time!
We had a delightful couple of weeks pottering around the Swale and Medway delta - to us: I include my mate here, it is the finest of pottering grounds. It all seems an age ago now though.
During our time around 'home' waters we 'pulled' one boat off the mud and rescued a broken down speed boat during that time too. The first has aready been mentioned... The speed boat was a little different. The owner had no radio or chart ... not even an OS map ... which would have served them almost as well. They had mobiles though...! We were sailing round Hoo Island when we spotted them drifting amongst the old vessels hulked along the islands's eastern shore... They'd clearly a broken drive pin ... tide had turned and by the time we got back, after dropping sails, were on passage across the open water with other craft ignoring them - that I found a little troubling.
The boat was towed to Gillingham slip and we saw them reach the shore. Apart from a terminated sail round through Hoo Creek and burning a few cups of diesel, we felt as if we had been of help ... one day it might be us!
I also met the Doris and her very pleasant owner, Denis and his charming young lad Deben, in Sharfleet. I'd been poking around ashore looking at some stuff ... they came over and Denis took me off to find something else that I had had two searches for - the 'what' will have to wait until I can get published again!
One of the interesting things we did was to take the first of the flood into Milford Hope Creek up to Shorgates little gutway. Well by the time we got there after a slow tack with a gentle breeze we were able to fetch in past a line of withies. These run past the dock's entrance and out towards the wide open Upchurch flats and Half Acre Creek. We grounded for a short while a little past a withy (on the east side of the gutway) on the edge of the old 'roadway' out over Slayhills marshes.
Sailing into the entrance to Shoregate Dock creek and way across the old Slayhills Marsh roadway.
The channel is well used by the sailing barge Edith May and the withy has a top mark. To the south, beyond Milfordhope Creek's run in towards my old home May Flower's berth, there are two withies that mark the way across the old strayway that went out towards Milfordhope Marsh. The mud has reached up to the wasted road between these marks and provided you can float, then a safe passage across to Lower Halstow Creek, or out of Twinney, can be made.
Looking back towards the two withies marking the passage over the old strayway.
Posted on 30 Aug 2012 by admin
Niagara sails agin - Swale barge, smack and gaffer meet
The freshly rigged Niagara excelled at the Swale Barge match, crossing the line with the Repertor in a photo-finish. Who won wasn't clear and no winners bunting has been flown yet ... anywhere amongst the fleet. Not sure why none have been dished out. In the olden days, when boats were sculled, winning penants were flown almost as soon as the barges brought up...
Not bad eh, the Repertor now has another challenger!
The Niagara was sporting a topsail with Whitton Marine's name painted across it ... nice to see some more sponsorship. The barge has been in the yard for many years though!
There was a photo finish in the bowsprit class too: Mirosa seemed to pip the Marjorie with the strawberry jams barge, Tiptree's Decima, crossing at same time too. It looked as if the other two were running her off the road, as it were, from my vantage by the line.
Gaffers galore...
There was a fine display of smacks and gaffers at the event with keenly contested groups crossing the line one after the other. Two old coal burning VIC class cargo steamers were hooted across the line too... The picture shows VIC 56. The other around was the VIC 96.
Resonance of a bygone age...
Post script Monday 13th... The Niagara was indeed awarded first place in the staysail class - it was after a protest against the Repertor for, I understand, sailing too close and thus steeling wind on the way up to the line... It's serious stuff this barge racing.
Mirosa won the bowsprit by no more than a bowsprit from the Marjorie. The Cabby came in first in the restricted staysails, that is no other than 'normal' sails allowed.
Well done to a barge last sailing some 70 years ago ... the Niagara was flying along faster than the Repertor, even with one less staysail set. I'm sure the team on the Repertor will eventually get the measure of her though, as she did with the Melissa...
The weekend of traditional sail over on the Swale was a fantastic sight and well worth joining in with as a spectator.
Not bad eh, the Repertor now has another challenger!
The Niagara was sporting a topsail with Whitton Marine's name painted across it ... nice to see some more sponsorship. The barge has been in the yard for many years though!
There was a photo finish in the bowsprit class too: Mirosa seemed to pip the Marjorie with the strawberry jams barge, Tiptree's Decima, crossing at same time too. It looked as if the other two were running her off the road, as it were, from my vantage by the line.
Gaffers galore...
There was a fine display of smacks and gaffers at the event with keenly contested groups crossing the line one after the other. Two old coal burning VIC class cargo steamers were hooted across the line too... The picture shows VIC 56. The other around was the VIC 96.
Resonance of a bygone age...
Post script Monday 13th... The Niagara was indeed awarded first place in the staysail class - it was after a protest against the Repertor for, I understand, sailing too close and thus steeling wind on the way up to the line... It's serious stuff this barge racing.
Mirosa won the bowsprit by no more than a bowsprit from the Marjorie. The Cabby came in first in the restricted staysails, that is no other than 'normal' sails allowed.
Well done to a barge last sailing some 70 years ago ... the Niagara was flying along faster than the Repertor, even with one less staysail set. I'm sure the team on the Repertor will eventually get the measure of her though, as she did with the Melissa...
The weekend of traditional sail over on the Swale was a fantastic sight and well worth joining in with as a spectator.
Posted on 11 Aug 2012 by admin
Mud banks and barges...
Yesterday saiing round from that sleepy little place at the entrance to the West Swale, Queenborugh, we spotted a boat in place it shouldn't have been. She was perched, well resting, and looked perfectly 'safe' and pretty festooned with a bevvy of young maids sunning themselves ... there wasn't a lot else to do: she'd clearly gone aground near the top of the tide... It was going to be a long wait.
After a conversation: I knew both boat and crew, I quickly decided we would come back later after lunch and stand by... We duly assisted them off the putty. Our assistance was not exactly needed, but John, the skipper, was a contented man ... his crew rather relieved!
We left them heading towards the bridge, 12 hours late!
Today, after a visit to Whitstable, we passed a 'new' barge at anchor off Harty sitting amongst a clutch of others and a host of many traditional craft all here for the Swale Barge, smack and trad craft racing tomorrow - The Swale Olympics! It is a brilliant event for its eclectic mix and must be unique.
The barge is the Niagara. She has been refitting at Hoo for a decade or so. She's painted in the colours of the Reminder, so from a distance the two barges will be difficult to distinguish. Anyway, here she is...
The Niagara, rigged for first time in many years...
After a conversation: I knew both boat and crew, I quickly decided we would come back later after lunch and stand by... We duly assisted them off the putty. Our assistance was not exactly needed, but John, the skipper, was a contented man ... his crew rather relieved!
We left them heading towards the bridge, 12 hours late!
Today, after a visit to Whitstable, we passed a 'new' barge at anchor off Harty sitting amongst a clutch of others and a host of many traditional craft all here for the Swale Barge, smack and trad craft racing tomorrow - The Swale Olympics! It is a brilliant event for its eclectic mix and must be unique.
The barge is the Niagara. She has been refitting at Hoo for a decade or so. She's painted in the colours of the Reminder, so from a distance the two barges will be difficult to distinguish. Anyway, here she is...
The Niagara, rigged for first time in many years...
Posted on 10 Aug 2012 by admin
Ditch-crawler gets some thanks!
A few weeks ago my sister and one of her pals came aboard for a week of east coast cruising. I duly received a card with thanks from the friend (not my sister!). It contained a couple of ditties. Here they are:
There once was a skipper from Hadleigh
who loved his boat deeply and madly
His work, rest and play
was sailing all day
that mudlarker seadog Nick Ardley.
There was a proud skipper called Nick
who sailed never missing a trick
He looked after his crew
by unbloking the loo
so kept his boat clean, span and spick!
Very good! The pair of them, 'the girls' were a good crew too, keeping me fed and watered...
Ditch-crawler and his mate just below Hythe bridge, Colchester, yesterday during a jaunt up the Colne.
There once was a skipper from Hadleigh
who loved his boat deeply and madly
His work, rest and play
was sailing all day
that mudlarker seadog Nick Ardley.
There was a proud skipper called Nick
who sailed never missing a trick
He looked after his crew
by unbloking the loo
so kept his boat clean, span and spick!
Very good! The pair of them, 'the girls' were a good crew too, keeping me fed and watered...
Ditch-crawler and his mate just below Hythe bridge, Colchester, yesterday during a jaunt up the Colne.
Posted on 07 Aug 2012 by admin
A barge with no name ... has one now!
JP of Tollesbury and his good lady had a new barge built last year. I wrote about meeting them shortly after it had been delivered to Bradwell marina last year.
The barge is now afloat with her main mast on deck. Boy she looks good … her hull looks balanced. There seems to be the right amount above the water - she has around a metre forward underwater and a little more aft. Last year JP told me her draft would be towards, in old measurements, four feet when rigged out and stored.
Here she is, a proud looking girl and it'll be great to see her rigged next time I pass by - sailing even. Well done JP and good mate...
The Angla & Peter of Tollesbury.
I met the new barge's owner while pottering in my little lugsail dinghy yesterday afternoon... He, 'JP' Lodge, has confirmed that his original little barge yacht, Elizabeth Anne, is seriously for sale. I believe he can be contacted through the Tollesbury Sailing Club or contact me and I will pass email on... She is ready to go - sails are not bent on though - a weekends work and the pretty little thing could be your delight out on the water...
The barge is now afloat with her main mast on deck. Boy she looks good … her hull looks balanced. There seems to be the right amount above the water - she has around a metre forward underwater and a little more aft. Last year JP told me her draft would be towards, in old measurements, four feet when rigged out and stored.
Here she is, a proud looking girl and it'll be great to see her rigged next time I pass by - sailing even. Well done JP and good mate...
The Angla & Peter of Tollesbury.
I met the new barge's owner while pottering in my little lugsail dinghy yesterday afternoon... He, 'JP' Lodge, has confirmed that his original little barge yacht, Elizabeth Anne, is seriously for sale. I believe he can be contacted through the Tollesbury Sailing Club or contact me and I will pass email on... She is ready to go - sails are not bent on though - a weekends work and the pretty little thing could be your delight out on the water...
Posted on 03 Aug 2012 by admin
The joy of the saltings
Something really tickled Whimbrel's crew as we sailed past yesterday.
We were pottering into the Mersea Quarters for a pit-stop and were met with a strange sight indeed: a floating seagull house was spotted aboard a well named vessel, the Salting!
What the owner will think when he, or she, gets out to the boat all set for a day pottering out around the glorious Blackwater, I don't know ... however, it looked as if the poor little boat hasn't seen its owner for some time...
The nest seems to have been built up in the bows, but the cockpit was full of salting grasses, feathers and guano!
Oh well, the gulls found a use for the poor old girl. Lets hope the little ship finds herself being used for what was intended, sailing...
We were pottering into the Mersea Quarters for a pit-stop and were met with a strange sight indeed: a floating seagull house was spotted aboard a well named vessel, the Salting!
What the owner will think when he, or she, gets out to the boat all set for a day pottering out around the glorious Blackwater, I don't know ... however, it looked as if the poor little boat hasn't seen its owner for some time...
The nest seems to have been built up in the bows, but the cockpit was full of salting grasses, feathers and guano!
Oh well, the gulls found a use for the poor old girl. Lets hope the little ship finds herself being used for what was intended, sailing...
Posted on 03 Aug 2012 by admin
Ditch-crawler's odds and sods
While in Woodbridge recently I met a fellow MG owner - his was red though! It turned out we also had something else in common: he was a Lloyds surveyor working in the off-shore oil industry, whilst I was a marine engineer officer... He 'downsized' to a motor boat a couple of seasons ago to enable his mate to continue boating - she's a robust Nelson type (the boat that is!).
The iconic Tide Mill at Woodbridge.
While dropping my contact details to his mooring I met a lovely couple up from Hayling Island - they both enthused profusely about the east coast, barges, smacks and its lovely quiet anchorages. One of their favourite places has been Faversham where they spent an enjoyable few days alongside the Iron Wharf.
It was fabulous they said: we went into Canterbury and Sandwich as well as touring the town. They were enamoured with the eclectic array of craft and the lived in huts... Not sanitised like the Solent!
The mate duly boarded ship and is growing accustomed to the motion and work required by her skipper - she's asleep now and unlikely to read this for some time - after a hot walk around the town poking here there and everywhere.
During our walk I wandered into the old rail sheds to talk to the 'crew' of the new Mayflower - Pilgrim Ship - the keel of which is to be laid down soon. Chatting to the few staff around was enlightening and educational too. Several people now staff came as volunteers having been out of work locally. A start has been made on training young shipwrights - some have been farmed out to yards dealing with wooden craft to gain experience under guidance. Training will go up to L3 City & Guilds. They're all very excited about the ship being afloat - planned for 2015. See recent article in Anglia Afloat - check web site.
I happened to mention that I thought that the trust should get together with the various trusts building (re-building) barges and trade/share knowledge. I mentioned the work of the Faversham Town Trust and plans for the Pent Dock. The Mayflower project trustee I spoke to said it was a good idea...
There is no Olympic buzz in the town, just people out enjoying themselves and yotties doing what they do, whilst alongside, nattering ... me amongst them!
Oh yes, Halfpenny Pier - what a friedly place. Very helpful harbour master and more besides... More waterfront places could take a leaf out of Harwich 's book and do something similar - ROCHESTER for instance!
The iconic Tide Mill at Woodbridge.
While dropping my contact details to his mooring I met a lovely couple up from Hayling Island - they both enthused profusely about the east coast, barges, smacks and its lovely quiet anchorages. One of their favourite places has been Faversham where they spent an enjoyable few days alongside the Iron Wharf.
It was fabulous they said: we went into Canterbury and Sandwich as well as touring the town. They were enamoured with the eclectic array of craft and the lived in huts... Not sanitised like the Solent!
The mate duly boarded ship and is growing accustomed to the motion and work required by her skipper - she's asleep now and unlikely to read this for some time - after a hot walk around the town poking here there and everywhere.
During our walk I wandered into the old rail sheds to talk to the 'crew' of the new Mayflower - Pilgrim Ship - the keel of which is to be laid down soon. Chatting to the few staff around was enlightening and educational too. Several people now staff came as volunteers having been out of work locally. A start has been made on training young shipwrights - some have been farmed out to yards dealing with wooden craft to gain experience under guidance. Training will go up to L3 City & Guilds. They're all very excited about the ship being afloat - planned for 2015. See recent article in Anglia Afloat - check web site.
I happened to mention that I thought that the trust should get together with the various trusts building (re-building) barges and trade/share knowledge. I mentioned the work of the Faversham Town Trust and plans for the Pent Dock. The Mayflower project trustee I spoke to said it was a good idea...
There is no Olympic buzz in the town, just people out enjoying themselves and yotties doing what they do, whilst alongside, nattering ... me amongst them!
Oh yes, Halfpenny Pier - what a friedly place. Very helpful harbour master and more besides... More waterfront places could take a leaf out of Harwich 's book and do something similar - ROCHESTER for instance!
Posted on 25 Jul 2012 by admin
Ditch-crawler says, It's now summer!
What a time ... summer!
The sun has come out with a vengeance now and those days of indifferent weather seem to have receded - well, we'll get some, for sure, but not the persistent dross we did have (though I'm not complaining).
Dear old Whimbie has done around 330 N.miles since leaving her berth last month ... now she and her skipper look forward to the arrival of the good ship's mate ... bless her: she's been missed!
With the last of my summer crews we made it back up to the head of the Deben - a special request from a 'Jolly Boy' - wrapping in Pin Mill and Walton Backwaters. Copious, well enough to slake a good thirst, quantities of Adnams has been enjoyed too.
At Pin Mill there was the delightful sight of the curvaceous undersides of the good ship Cambria. She's been scrubbed off ready for her second Thames match since her reincarnation - she's also re-enacting her last cargo run, in 1970, too.
Cambria on the blocks.
In readiness for the mate's arrival the boat has been cleaned out ... cushions and bilges hoovered ... not that the chores have been left unattended as my various crews (females too) could attest!
On the way up to the Orwell I spotted this lovely gaff cutter - a delight to the eye.
Later, off Woolverstone I passed a day boat, one of the RHYC class dinghies dressed in plastic bags. This should NOT be allowed to take place: the bags shred, break up and turn into tiny, microscopic, particles that have been found to have found their way into the lowest in the food chain ... which means, ultimately, it'll be ingested by us... Owners of boats should be more thoughtful and be aware of the likely environmental damage their actions cause.
Plastic pollution on the Orwell...
The sun has come out with a vengeance now and those days of indifferent weather seem to have receded - well, we'll get some, for sure, but not the persistent dross we did have (though I'm not complaining).
Dear old Whimbie has done around 330 N.miles since leaving her berth last month ... now she and her skipper look forward to the arrival of the good ship's mate ... bless her: she's been missed!
With the last of my summer crews we made it back up to the head of the Deben - a special request from a 'Jolly Boy' - wrapping in Pin Mill and Walton Backwaters. Copious, well enough to slake a good thirst, quantities of Adnams has been enjoyed too.
At Pin Mill there was the delightful sight of the curvaceous undersides of the good ship Cambria. She's been scrubbed off ready for her second Thames match since her reincarnation - she's also re-enacting her last cargo run, in 1970, too.
Cambria on the blocks.
In readiness for the mate's arrival the boat has been cleaned out ... cushions and bilges hoovered ... not that the chores have been left unattended as my various crews (females too) could attest!
On the way up to the Orwell I spotted this lovely gaff cutter - a delight to the eye.
Later, off Woolverstone I passed a day boat, one of the RHYC class dinghies dressed in plastic bags. This should NOT be allowed to take place: the bags shred, break up and turn into tiny, microscopic, particles that have been found to have found their way into the lowest in the food chain ... which means, ultimately, it'll be ingested by us... Owners of boats should be more thoughtful and be aware of the likely environmental damage their actions cause.
Plastic pollution on the Orwell...
Posted on 23 Jul 2012 by admin
Meeting the Northern Rivers Sailing Club
I was sailing down the Stour the week before last, well probably some two and a half weeks now, when my crew remarked about a group of similar class yachts beating towards us, and probably Wrabness. We were running down towards Harwich where we berthed on the inside of Halfpenny Pier under sail alone to drop one crew ashore - needing to be elsewhere later that day. Incidentally, while alongside, we watched the little spritsail barge Cygnet clear her outside berth by warp, sweep and sail.
Something about the burgee struck me: I'd seen it somewhere, but couldn't remember where, until diving below I pulled open the pages of the then latest edition of Anglia Afloat. There it was ... the burgee of the Northern Rivers Sailing Club emblazoned on an article about the club and its planned east coast cruise to the rivers of North Essex and South Suffolk.
The burgee, a typical triangular fly, has a golden yellow winged horse upon a deep red background. I waved heartily as two boats passed close by.
Later, with a different crew aboard, I met some of the group as they berthed in Woodbridge Marina. I nattered with a few of them and for a longer period with the club's secretary (I think) Tom. I promised them a mention ... I thought I'd got a picture of the group on the Stour. However, sadly, it was just a thought!
I'm about to depart back to the boat on Tuesday ... leaving the (now well) mate alone. Ah! She, bless her, is due to join in a week later. In the mean time I've a family friend to entertain, while being filled with good Adnams ale! During the week the mate and me went up to the boat to take a load of clean washing back and do some bits and bobs. We had a road tour back around the edges of the Backwaters, poking down various lanes - great to see the landward side for a change.
The garden has been tidied up, various shrubs clipped back to encourage new growth from the base – boy, have things grown with the current 'warm' and moist conditions. I don’t suppose they'll receive much thought from tomorrow: my mind will be on the boat...
Sunset over the Holbrook shore from Wrabness the evenin before our run down river. The boatman here was busy renewing mooring risers and indicated for us to stay on mooring borrowed ... nice chap ... friendly little anchorage.
Something about the burgee struck me: I'd seen it somewhere, but couldn't remember where, until diving below I pulled open the pages of the then latest edition of Anglia Afloat. There it was ... the burgee of the Northern Rivers Sailing Club emblazoned on an article about the club and its planned east coast cruise to the rivers of North Essex and South Suffolk.
The burgee, a typical triangular fly, has a golden yellow winged horse upon a deep red background. I waved heartily as two boats passed close by.
Later, with a different crew aboard, I met some of the group as they berthed in Woodbridge Marina. I nattered with a few of them and for a longer period with the club's secretary (I think) Tom. I promised them a mention ... I thought I'd got a picture of the group on the Stour. However, sadly, it was just a thought!
I'm about to depart back to the boat on Tuesday ... leaving the (now well) mate alone. Ah! She, bless her, is due to join in a week later. In the mean time I've a family friend to entertain, while being filled with good Adnams ale! During the week the mate and me went up to the boat to take a load of clean washing back and do some bits and bobs. We had a road tour back around the edges of the Backwaters, poking down various lanes - great to see the landward side for a change.
The garden has been tidied up, various shrubs clipped back to encourage new growth from the base – boy, have things grown with the current 'warm' and moist conditions. I don’t suppose they'll receive much thought from tomorrow: my mind will be on the boat...
Sunset over the Holbrook shore from Wrabness the evenin before our run down river. The boatman here was busy renewing mooring risers and indicated for us to stay on mooring borrowed ... nice chap ... friendly little anchorage.
Posted on 15 Jul 2012 by admin
Lashings, halyards to cricket
To get lashed is a colloquial word for having one or two too many to drink, or, in the past it may have been a punishment dispensed to local miscreants, however, it, lash and lashings are also nautical words: I mention this because a polite notice at a marina I've recently visited reminds ‘yachtsmen’ to tie back halyards so that noise is minimised - this is obviously to prevent sleeping persons from being unduly disturbed.
One of my recent crews mentioned this to me: a bunch of halyards created a resonant tattoo during one night - most tiresome. In the past I have leapt aboard a neighbouring boat and re-secured inadequately or half-hearted tie backs. My boat has two permanently fitted lashings ready for action once sails have been stowed for the day, or an anchorage has been reached. Ah well...
Being home in Hadleigh (the proper one in Essex and land of the Olympic hill biking event) I was coerced, with little effort on my son's part, to watch a match between the Lashings International Eleven and our local cricket team - Hadleigh & Thundersley. I didn't get lashed but having received a late pass from the mate, stayed until Hadleigh were all out some 30 runs short of the Lashings' total ... having an additional pint of Adnams. We had Fish & Chips for supper instead of what was planned!
Ian Harvey on his way to a smash and grab 90...
It was grand to see cricketers as Mohammad Yousaf, Saqlain Mushtaq, Ed Giddins, Ian Harvey, Henry Olonga and Mahammad Akram amongst others. Ian Harvey carved the Hadleigh bowlers for 90 odd runs and managed to hit the ball out of the ground, hitting a car on one occasion.
Before the match Henry Olonga sang to an assembly at a charity luncheon. The aria Nessun Dorma, made famous by Pavarotti, rang around the ground in deep notes - wonderful. Olonga is actually a talented singer. His singing career came before cricket. For those who don't know he is from Zimbabwe.
Anyway, back to our lashings, afloat. All of us should be aware of the need to use these: we don't all go home at the end of the day...
One of my recent crews mentioned this to me: a bunch of halyards created a resonant tattoo during one night - most tiresome. In the past I have leapt aboard a neighbouring boat and re-secured inadequately or half-hearted tie backs. My boat has two permanently fitted lashings ready for action once sails have been stowed for the day, or an anchorage has been reached. Ah well...
Being home in Hadleigh (the proper one in Essex and land of the Olympic hill biking event) I was coerced, with little effort on my son's part, to watch a match between the Lashings International Eleven and our local cricket team - Hadleigh & Thundersley. I didn't get lashed but having received a late pass from the mate, stayed until Hadleigh were all out some 30 runs short of the Lashings' total ... having an additional pint of Adnams. We had Fish & Chips for supper instead of what was planned!
Ian Harvey on his way to a smash and grab 90...
It was grand to see cricketers as Mohammad Yousaf, Saqlain Mushtaq, Ed Giddins, Ian Harvey, Henry Olonga and Mahammad Akram amongst others. Ian Harvey carved the Hadleigh bowlers for 90 odd runs and managed to hit the ball out of the ground, hitting a car on one occasion.
Before the match Henry Olonga sang to an assembly at a charity luncheon. The aria Nessun Dorma, made famous by Pavarotti, rang around the ground in deep notes - wonderful. Olonga is actually a talented singer. His singing career came before cricket. For those who don't know he is from Zimbabwe.
Anyway, back to our lashings, afloat. All of us should be aware of the need to use these: we don't all go home at the end of the day...
Posted on 12 Jul 2012 by admin
Ditch-crawler's recent Reflections...
Over the past few weeks I have been enjoying the company and bonhomie with my siblings and their partners/friends.
My brother's partner joined during the middle part of his eleven day cruise during which a new recruit to sailing was born - although the lady had sailed many years ago in a dinghy off Leigh-on-Sea. She is now a committed recruit to the east coast way of cruising ... a boat is the current dream.
This pair enjoyed Pin Mill, Manningtree, Wrabness and the Walton Backwaters. We dropped her off at Halfpenny Pier at Harwich - what a wonderful town to dawdle around. I've been before, but a fair time ago and reflected that another, slower, visit was needed. The mate, bless her, heartily agrees!
A happy lady ... romping into the Orwell.
While at Wrabness we watched two young sailors come slowly up close in shore below the cliff under sail and pick up their mooring. My crew had seen other vessels come in, under power, against the tide with a fair wind. 'Why did they do it?' one asked.
I grinned: we had sailed on too and said, 'It isn't every ones cup of tea...' It's nice though to see and we enjoyed it.
A joy to watch whilst contemplating the world over a mug of tea and a hunk of tasty cake...
Dropping my youngest brother off at that charming east coast marina, Titchmarsh, I picked up my sister and a girl friend, a charming lass also living in deepest Wiltshire. (She kept a log of her cruise and has promised me a copy ... she is also composing a ditty for/about the skipper - I await with trepidation...!) It was almost a case of 'hot bunking!'
Sailing out of Hamford Water I very had the new girl on the helm: she'd learnt the art at university (Norwich) many eons earlier... She was pleased to be relieved by me when inside Harwich harbour: we were by then surrounded by spritsail barges bouncing out over the short sea chop in a little more than a bargeman's breeze.
Rucked topsails predominated, apart from the iron pots, Pin Mill's Melissa and Faversham's Repertor fighting out a private duel which Repertor eventually won. Earlier we had seen the 120 year old Mirosa lead the St Osyth based Queen of the fleet on a merry dance to the finish - grand eh ... to see the Mirosa up front!
Barges bounced over the chop as we entered the harbour...
My new recruit to the east coast (my sister is an old hand, really!) was gobsmacked when watching those old craft coming up-river at a fantastic rate, yards apart at times, to finish of the Butt & Oyster. Ah yes...
This last lot made it up to Woodbridge after a stop-over at Waldringfield where all is now clean and prim, yet 100 years ago the area was permanently shrouded in a fog of cement dust! The incomers wouldn't have been so keen then!
Manningtree, Wrabness and the Backwaters were sampled too ... these two sailed right up to the head of Oakley Creek, first to see the seals and secondly to see where a large coaster, seen in the outer channel on the way in, had come from. They too enjoyed the tranquillity of one of my mate's favourite places, a place where usually only locals pass by.
Sunrise in the mate's favourite place...
Yes, it was a great time, I missed the mate, for sure, but her time will soon come... At the moment, I am home nursing her: she is off work with an affliction, home-bound and increasingly troublesome (not a good patient): she is bored ... oh dear!
My brother's partner joined during the middle part of his eleven day cruise during which a new recruit to sailing was born - although the lady had sailed many years ago in a dinghy off Leigh-on-Sea. She is now a committed recruit to the east coast way of cruising ... a boat is the current dream.
This pair enjoyed Pin Mill, Manningtree, Wrabness and the Walton Backwaters. We dropped her off at Halfpenny Pier at Harwich - what a wonderful town to dawdle around. I've been before, but a fair time ago and reflected that another, slower, visit was needed. The mate, bless her, heartily agrees!
A happy lady ... romping into the Orwell.
While at Wrabness we watched two young sailors come slowly up close in shore below the cliff under sail and pick up their mooring. My crew had seen other vessels come in, under power, against the tide with a fair wind. 'Why did they do it?' one asked.
I grinned: we had sailed on too and said, 'It isn't every ones cup of tea...' It's nice though to see and we enjoyed it.
A joy to watch whilst contemplating the world over a mug of tea and a hunk of tasty cake...
Dropping my youngest brother off at that charming east coast marina, Titchmarsh, I picked up my sister and a girl friend, a charming lass also living in deepest Wiltshire. (She kept a log of her cruise and has promised me a copy ... she is also composing a ditty for/about the skipper - I await with trepidation...!) It was almost a case of 'hot bunking!'
Sailing out of Hamford Water I very had the new girl on the helm: she'd learnt the art at university (Norwich) many eons earlier... She was pleased to be relieved by me when inside Harwich harbour: we were by then surrounded by spritsail barges bouncing out over the short sea chop in a little more than a bargeman's breeze.
Rucked topsails predominated, apart from the iron pots, Pin Mill's Melissa and Faversham's Repertor fighting out a private duel which Repertor eventually won. Earlier we had seen the 120 year old Mirosa lead the St Osyth based Queen of the fleet on a merry dance to the finish - grand eh ... to see the Mirosa up front!
Barges bounced over the chop as we entered the harbour...
My new recruit to the east coast (my sister is an old hand, really!) was gobsmacked when watching those old craft coming up-river at a fantastic rate, yards apart at times, to finish of the Butt & Oyster. Ah yes...
This last lot made it up to Woodbridge after a stop-over at Waldringfield where all is now clean and prim, yet 100 years ago the area was permanently shrouded in a fog of cement dust! The incomers wouldn't have been so keen then!
Manningtree, Wrabness and the Backwaters were sampled too ... these two sailed right up to the head of Oakley Creek, first to see the seals and secondly to see where a large coaster, seen in the outer channel on the way in, had come from. They too enjoyed the tranquillity of one of my mate's favourite places, a place where usually only locals pass by.
Sunrise in the mate's favourite place...
Yes, it was a great time, I missed the mate, for sure, but her time will soon come... At the moment, I am home nursing her: she is off work with an affliction, home-bound and increasingly troublesome (not a good patient): she is bored ... oh dear!
Posted on 09 Jul 2012 by admin
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Swatchway passage on the shortest night...
The forecast for a cruise up to the Orwell for a meeting of the east coast branch of the RNSA was not of the best. The weather has been somewhat indifferent since the end of March, however, undaunted, for there was a window of opportunity, I decided it was on and my crew joined as arranged.
We set off a little after two on Thursday morning, motoring into a light easterly. The battery had three hours of charging and my hours clock is a little closer to the new engine's 50 hour service! Down near the Barrow, and on cue from that forecast (believed in!) the wind went south-east, sail was set. We revelled in it ... the boat felt normal again.
It had become a little choppy by then too but once behind the shallows covering that great mass of sand separating the Swin from the deeper Thames channels the water became smooth. The boat was in her element and we saw 7.3 knots flash up... I think we were going faster at times - just my little jib and main with first reef!
Whimbrel sailing up the Wallet on a finer day ... taken from dinghy towing astern!
By the turn of the tide we were sailing through the spitway ... my crew wanted to know why I called it the Swin Spitway! I don't know the answer to that one. I got away with it by saying, "I expect northern sailors call it the Wallet Spitway..." Anyway, 'we' made a 'command decision' and we decided to continue up the Wallet... It was a grand sail too requiring the letting out of the reef in the main nd setting of the genoa - we were pushing five plus knots over the tide. Not bad for an old Finesse...
It was a good move or what: sitting on a buoy off that evocative Suffolk sailors' port, Pin Mill, with the wind howling around the anchorage and bursts of rain (well one short and heavy one anyway) lashing around, I think it was. And now, as I write, the sun has come out!
The mate was somewhat relieved we had made our decision and was impressed with the timings too ... I think she was really wishing she'd been aboard and not at work... Someone has to keep the home fires burning... (My crew had abandoned his mate as well!)
Talking of mates, my current, a pretty good one too, had asked for sugar in his tea - it was somewhere going along the edge of the Maplin sands. I wasn't aware he took sweetners! Apparently his two daughters don't allow it at home - so, as one of them is my God-daughter and in support of their rules ... I've stopped the his secret sugar kick too! It means, of course, he'll be able to enjoy a few more pints of Adnams ashore...
There is a smack/gaffers race tomorrow - Saturday - two have appeared already, but one wonders if it'll take place: gales have been forecasted... this is also the weekend of the Thames barge passage match from Gravesend to Pin Mill. they're robust craft so should pitch up in a long line over the evening of Saturday into Sunday. I'll have another budding east coaster aboard by then too ... my temporary mate's partner... She's done some dinghy sailing on the Deben and some other locations in an earlier life ... but not cruiser sailing.
My lap top ran out of power ... now corrected...
Cracking sail today, Saturday, chasing smacks ... down the Orwell and into the Stour. The harbour was somewhat choppy. Later in Shotley Marina, and yes I do go into marinas, I watched as the Edith May ran in well ahead of the Repertor and Ardwina in the Passage Match from Gravesend.
I rang the Edith May's intrepid skipper, Geoff Gransden, and congratulated the barge (and crew). They even had to do a '360' and go back round the Shotley buoy: they'd left it on the wrong side. Tut Tut!
We set off a little after two on Thursday morning, motoring into a light easterly. The battery had three hours of charging and my hours clock is a little closer to the new engine's 50 hour service! Down near the Barrow, and on cue from that forecast (believed in!) the wind went south-east, sail was set. We revelled in it ... the boat felt normal again.
It had become a little choppy by then too but once behind the shallows covering that great mass of sand separating the Swin from the deeper Thames channels the water became smooth. The boat was in her element and we saw 7.3 knots flash up... I think we were going faster at times - just my little jib and main with first reef!
Whimbrel sailing up the Wallet on a finer day ... taken from dinghy towing astern!
By the turn of the tide we were sailing through the spitway ... my crew wanted to know why I called it the Swin Spitway! I don't know the answer to that one. I got away with it by saying, "I expect northern sailors call it the Wallet Spitway..." Anyway, 'we' made a 'command decision' and we decided to continue up the Wallet... It was a grand sail too requiring the letting out of the reef in the main nd setting of the genoa - we were pushing five plus knots over the tide. Not bad for an old Finesse...
It was a good move or what: sitting on a buoy off that evocative Suffolk sailors' port, Pin Mill, with the wind howling around the anchorage and bursts of rain (well one short and heavy one anyway) lashing around, I think it was. And now, as I write, the sun has come out!
The mate was somewhat relieved we had made our decision and was impressed with the timings too ... I think she was really wishing she'd been aboard and not at work... Someone has to keep the home fires burning... (My crew had abandoned his mate as well!)
Talking of mates, my current, a pretty good one too, had asked for sugar in his tea - it was somewhere going along the edge of the Maplin sands. I wasn't aware he took sweetners! Apparently his two daughters don't allow it at home - so, as one of them is my God-daughter and in support of their rules ... I've stopped the his secret sugar kick too! It means, of course, he'll be able to enjoy a few more pints of Adnams ashore...
There is a smack/gaffers race tomorrow - Saturday - two have appeared already, but one wonders if it'll take place: gales have been forecasted... this is also the weekend of the Thames barge passage match from Gravesend to Pin Mill. they're robust craft so should pitch up in a long line over the evening of Saturday into Sunday. I'll have another budding east coaster aboard by then too ... my temporary mate's partner... She's done some dinghy sailing on the Deben and some other locations in an earlier life ... but not cruiser sailing.
My lap top ran out of power ... now corrected...
Cracking sail today, Saturday, chasing smacks ... down the Orwell and into the Stour. The harbour was somewhat choppy. Later in Shotley Marina, and yes I do go into marinas, I watched as the Edith May ran in well ahead of the Repertor and Ardwina in the Passage Match from Gravesend.
I rang the Edith May's intrepid skipper, Geoff Gransden, and congratulated the barge (and crew). They even had to do a '360' and go back round the Shotley buoy: they'd left it on the wrong side. Tut Tut!
Posted on 22 Jun 2012 by admin
From New Zealand...
Some while ago I took a friendly fan from New Zealand out for a sail on Whimbrel. The chap has done quite well while back in Blighty. Two sails on two different Finesse 24s and two sails up at Horning. The second was to take part in the 3 Rivers Race, which he thoroughly enjoyed.
The mate and I had a convivial evening talking to him, and his charming wife, last night over beer (or two) and wine and nibbles. He's chuffed with the way sailing folks have rallied to get him afloat. I know a Medway chap over at Lower Halstow, another of my readership, had wanted to treat our NZ sailor to a sail too. Alas, his time here runs short and that seemed unlikely as this goes to press. Soon the couple head off to Auckland - home for winter...
My friend sent me a batch of pictures from that famous harbour sometime ago, and as promised, with his sanction, I post a couple of classics photographed from his own cruiser ... plus an old working vessel.
Gaff cutter Thelma, a true beauty, sailing hard in Auckland Harbour.
This fine ship was hard on the heels of the Thelma in first shot - those NZ guys take sailing seriously...
This picture fascinated me: I like it because it is of an old coastal trader. She is, I understand, essentially flat bottomed to allow reaching into shallow waters. They were built with centre boards. These little ships were the coastal sisters to our own evocative spritsail barge. Notice the Polynesian influence in her design with her kicked up prow ... reminiscent of indigenous craft from the Pacific islands. Lovely!
Pictures courtesy of Paul Mullings, an 'old' Leigh-on-Sea man.
The mate and I had a convivial evening talking to him, and his charming wife, last night over beer (or two) and wine and nibbles. He's chuffed with the way sailing folks have rallied to get him afloat. I know a Medway chap over at Lower Halstow, another of my readership, had wanted to treat our NZ sailor to a sail too. Alas, his time here runs short and that seemed unlikely as this goes to press. Soon the couple head off to Auckland - home for winter...
My friend sent me a batch of pictures from that famous harbour sometime ago, and as promised, with his sanction, I post a couple of classics photographed from his own cruiser ... plus an old working vessel.
Gaff cutter Thelma, a true beauty, sailing hard in Auckland Harbour.
This fine ship was hard on the heels of the Thelma in first shot - those NZ guys take sailing seriously...
This picture fascinated me: I like it because it is of an old coastal trader. She is, I understand, essentially flat bottomed to allow reaching into shallow waters. They were built with centre boards. These little ships were the coastal sisters to our own evocative spritsail barge. Notice the Polynesian influence in her design with her kicked up prow ... reminiscent of indigenous craft from the Pacific islands. Lovely!
Pictures courtesy of Paul Mullings, an 'old' Leigh-on-Sea man.
Posted on 18 Jun 2012 by admin
More Medway barge match news
After my visit to the River Medway to see the barge match I had a call from a friend (one of my overseas readers) about my recent words on the Medway barge match - I suggested a sail ... it was quickly accepted. The chap had upped sticks and moved to New Zealand some years ago... He was 'home' to see his old mum and family and to visit friends... The couple also made use of our local noise generating scheme: London(?) Southend Airport ... to visit Turkey. The chap's wife wanted to visit a place her grandfather had been sent (fighting) during WW1.
Anyway, my NZ friend hadn't been up Benfleet Creek for around 40 years he reckoned - so I obliged him in his whim: it's a nice place to sail up, whilst knowing we'd need to motor back against a fickle easterly. So, all you doubters out there - I do burn diesel! On the way up the creek we were treated to a most spectacular lightning display. One bolt went straight across the sky and another was of the thickest size I can remember seeing. Fortunately, the display stayed just that and we hardly felt a drop of rain.
My NZ reader enjoyed his trip, short as it was, of around 2 hours. The next day he'd arranged another sail ... on another Finesse 24, Windsong, a local Leigh -on - Sea boat and part owned by a life long friend. I understand the sailors had a lovely trip to Queenborough and a jar or two ashore over lunch.
Some time ago I was sent a few shots of boats out in Auckland harbour by my friend ... I'll have to dig a couple out and display them: boy the skies and seas depicted are blue!
This week, out of the blue, came a batch of pictures attached to a friendly email from a chap who saw me chasing barges two weeks ago - which led me on to do this piece. He thought Whimbrel looked sparkling ... I expect he'd seen quite a lot of her clean bottom with the stiffish breeze predominating over the days sailing. I think I saw him sailing out too, but can't be sure. His boat is a nice modern Fulmar - ironically probably nearly as old as my 'old timer'! I did see a rather nice old gaffer - a real little smack, I think, but possibly a replica.
Picture of Whimbrel and unknown smack off the Grain Fort, from Winston Waller, a fellow Medway Sailor.
A couple of other pictures I took...
I liked this one: I've titled it, Tiptree jam chases the cream... What a splendid sight the Decima looks.
The Cambria's curtsy to Medway No.10 as she rounded the shortened course for the coasting class - doesn't she look splendid!
Anyway, my NZ friend hadn't been up Benfleet Creek for around 40 years he reckoned - so I obliged him in his whim: it's a nice place to sail up, whilst knowing we'd need to motor back against a fickle easterly. So, all you doubters out there - I do burn diesel! On the way up the creek we were treated to a most spectacular lightning display. One bolt went straight across the sky and another was of the thickest size I can remember seeing. Fortunately, the display stayed just that and we hardly felt a drop of rain.
My NZ reader enjoyed his trip, short as it was, of around 2 hours. The next day he'd arranged another sail ... on another Finesse 24, Windsong, a local Leigh -on - Sea boat and part owned by a life long friend. I understand the sailors had a lovely trip to Queenborough and a jar or two ashore over lunch.
Some time ago I was sent a few shots of boats out in Auckland harbour by my friend ... I'll have to dig a couple out and display them: boy the skies and seas depicted are blue!
This week, out of the blue, came a batch of pictures attached to a friendly email from a chap who saw me chasing barges two weeks ago - which led me on to do this piece. He thought Whimbrel looked sparkling ... I expect he'd seen quite a lot of her clean bottom with the stiffish breeze predominating over the days sailing. I think I saw him sailing out too, but can't be sure. His boat is a nice modern Fulmar - ironically probably nearly as old as my 'old timer'! I did see a rather nice old gaffer - a real little smack, I think, but possibly a replica.
Picture of Whimbrel and unknown smack off the Grain Fort, from Winston Waller, a fellow Medway Sailor.
A couple of other pictures I took...
I liked this one: I've titled it, Tiptree jam chases the cream... What a splendid sight the Decima looks.
The Cambria's curtsy to Medway No.10 as she rounded the shortened course for the coasting class - doesn't she look splendid!
Posted on 08 Jun 2012 by admin
Diamond Jubilee Parade of Sail on River Medway
Last Thursday evening we put the dear old girl on the hard, scrubbed one side of her bottom then tickled her up with a fresh coat of anti-fouling. Then, on Friday morning, I had to get up early and do the same to her other buttock - cor she looked good afterwards!
The mate had said to me earlier in the week, 'Why don't you go for a sail to see the barges...' Not needing a second hint, my mind was swayed!
Yesterday was the Diamond Jubilee Medway Barge Match sailed in honour of her Majesty... It was just a shame only seven (7) pitched up... But it was a glorious spectacle.
I sailed over, straight of the hard, on the Friday evening - reaching Queeborough spit in two hours - a cracking sail with a reef in the main. After a relaxing supper I retired ashore to quaff a welcome glass of ale. The Old House at Home had a musician strumming his stuff - excelent it was too, and it soon had me enjoying a further beer to relish the gentle mellows as the sun set over the Hoo villages in the distance.
Getting up early on Saturday I had my bacon on to grill (for sandwiches) as I prepared the boat for departure. Sandwiches made and a quick clear up, I cast off, under sail and made for the Medway with the intention to sail westwards until the barges were close - then chase them: undoubtably they would be going at nigh on full speed in the NE 4-5 gusting a liitle more. Port Authority only gave a maximum of 17 knots in the harbour though...
I met the barges near Oakham Ness where the EDME had already opened up a commanding lead. The rest of the story I'll leave to the pictures...
There were two tacking jousts in Saltpan Reach: the first was between the Edith May and Decima under the high clay banks and saltings of Burntwick Island. The Edith May was on course (with right of way) to deal a knock out blow to a motoring yacht clearly intent on suicide - I watched in shame as 'he' dithered, going to port/starboard/astern thrust and, finally, full ahead to get out of the way. From my position the Edith May had to pay-off to ensure clearance as she gathered way ... Decima was hot on her heels close under her port quarter - YACHTSMEN - Why do some of you get in the way of larger and mostly faster barges?! The second joust took place opposite the entrance to Stangate Creek between the Decima and Repertor under the towering bows of a modern cargo carrier. They sailed later and I'm sure, as seafarers they enjoyed the river spectacle. Both of those events, I believe, were pivotal in the order that soon resulted.
Neck and neck, the chasing pack, Repertor in foregroud, Decima and Edith May, spread across Saltpan Reach. Beautiful and evocative, a timeless sight.
The chasing pack is sorted into its order as the harbour entrance is reached. The Cambria then was still to round Sharpness.
Sailing perfection - the champange of the fleet in silhouette amongst the sea's sparkles. The EDME spreads her restricted class wings. It's not her usual manner: when racing bowsprit barges can do what they like... I heard them asking the committee boat for advice ... they learnt that restricted, means restricted: it mattered not!
The Cambria, Lady of the Lea and Phoenician, in that order were turned at No.10 Buoy to chase home the front runners on the fresh flood. I saw the mighty Phoenician round the mark - she'd been racing in the coaster class, as I scampered for home across the Thames doing a little under 6 knots - eager to see the mate. Ah!
The mate had said to me earlier in the week, 'Why don't you go for a sail to see the barges...' Not needing a second hint, my mind was swayed!
Yesterday was the Diamond Jubilee Medway Barge Match sailed in honour of her Majesty... It was just a shame only seven (7) pitched up... But it was a glorious spectacle.
I sailed over, straight of the hard, on the Friday evening - reaching Queeborough spit in two hours - a cracking sail with a reef in the main. After a relaxing supper I retired ashore to quaff a welcome glass of ale. The Old House at Home had a musician strumming his stuff - excelent it was too, and it soon had me enjoying a further beer to relish the gentle mellows as the sun set over the Hoo villages in the distance.
Getting up early on Saturday I had my bacon on to grill (for sandwiches) as I prepared the boat for departure. Sandwiches made and a quick clear up, I cast off, under sail and made for the Medway with the intention to sail westwards until the barges were close - then chase them: undoubtably they would be going at nigh on full speed in the NE 4-5 gusting a liitle more. Port Authority only gave a maximum of 17 knots in the harbour though...
I met the barges near Oakham Ness where the EDME had already opened up a commanding lead. The rest of the story I'll leave to the pictures...
There were two tacking jousts in Saltpan Reach: the first was between the Edith May and Decima under the high clay banks and saltings of Burntwick Island. The Edith May was on course (with right of way) to deal a knock out blow to a motoring yacht clearly intent on suicide - I watched in shame as 'he' dithered, going to port/starboard/astern thrust and, finally, full ahead to get out of the way. From my position the Edith May had to pay-off to ensure clearance as she gathered way ... Decima was hot on her heels close under her port quarter - YACHTSMEN - Why do some of you get in the way of larger and mostly faster barges?! The second joust took place opposite the entrance to Stangate Creek between the Decima and Repertor under the towering bows of a modern cargo carrier. They sailed later and I'm sure, as seafarers they enjoyed the river spectacle. Both of those events, I believe, were pivotal in the order that soon resulted.
Neck and neck, the chasing pack, Repertor in foregroud, Decima and Edith May, spread across Saltpan Reach. Beautiful and evocative, a timeless sight.
The chasing pack is sorted into its order as the harbour entrance is reached. The Cambria then was still to round Sharpness.
Sailing perfection - the champange of the fleet in silhouette amongst the sea's sparkles. The EDME spreads her restricted class wings. It's not her usual manner: when racing bowsprit barges can do what they like... I heard them asking the committee boat for advice ... they learnt that restricted, means restricted: it mattered not!
The Cambria, Lady of the Lea and Phoenician, in that order were turned at No.10 Buoy to chase home the front runners on the fresh flood. I saw the mighty Phoenician round the mark - she'd been racing in the coaster class, as I scampered for home across the Thames doing a little under 6 knots - eager to see the mate. Ah!
Posted on 27 May 2012 by admin
Olympic Legacy - Southend Council destroys historic vessel...
The Olympic Legacy came to the heart of the Thames estuary recently... Southend Council have destroyed a historic vessel, it is reported, in the name of beautifying the waterfront for visitors who might wander along the sea wall to the south of Leigh rail station.
Southend's (Leigh-on-Sea) 'Olympic Legacy' ... gone: she's been chopped up!
The historic vessel was the Trojan, a spritsail barge built of steel in 1899 at Southampton by J. G. Fay for Goldsmith's the cement and general freight conglomerate of the late 1800s to mid 1900s. The vessel traded for over 60 years before passing through several owners, before, finally becoming the home of the Leigh Motor Boat Club. The club sold the barge as a restoration project. Her hull then lay in an old 'dock' bow towards the sea wall up Leigh Creek for some fifteen years or so.
It was possible to see her extricated, but possibly not: restoration costs have escalated and 'Cutty Sark' funds wouldn't have had a bean's chance of going her way ... yet in her way she was (and her sisters too) as important to British Maritime Heritage as that carbuncle, that travesty of a ship, that shameful sham, up the Thames.
The bulk, apart from three exceptions, of Britain’s coastal and continental trading survivors is supported on the whole by individuals and 'companies' - how sad. Buildings in this land are not treated this way - hence, I suppose, for the Cutty Sark's massive bail-out.
There is some good news though:
In Essex, up at Maldon, the George Smeed, dating from 1882, has her mast and sprit up and is reported to be on the verge of rigging out... Her 'refit' has lasted for nearly 30 years...
The George Smeed at Cooks Yard, Maldon.
Over in Kent, at Hoo, close to the recently resurrected Buttercock Wharf, the Niagara, built in 1898 by Forrest of Wivenhoe, was seen rigging out back in April. She has been entered for the Jubilee Medway Barge Match...
The Niagara has been under restoration since being sold out of trade in the 1970s.
The Niagara with her foresail bent on...
As one BIG council destroys one, the man in the street, slaving, with no heritage funding has preserved for us all a little more of our marine heritage.
Southend had a barging heritage, once. It purports to be a 'sea side town' its maritime past helped in its rise as an entity rather than remaining the east end of Prittlewell. Maybe, Southend could have had a real Olympic Legacy ... their very own barge ... taking local school children afloat around the Thames basin ... following the local trade routes... Wow, wouldn't that have been something to shout about.
Don't be stupid...
Southend's (Leigh-on-Sea) 'Olympic Legacy' ... gone: she's been chopped up!
The historic vessel was the Trojan, a spritsail barge built of steel in 1899 at Southampton by J. G. Fay for Goldsmith's the cement and general freight conglomerate of the late 1800s to mid 1900s. The vessel traded for over 60 years before passing through several owners, before, finally becoming the home of the Leigh Motor Boat Club. The club sold the barge as a restoration project. Her hull then lay in an old 'dock' bow towards the sea wall up Leigh Creek for some fifteen years or so.
It was possible to see her extricated, but possibly not: restoration costs have escalated and 'Cutty Sark' funds wouldn't have had a bean's chance of going her way ... yet in her way she was (and her sisters too) as important to British Maritime Heritage as that carbuncle, that travesty of a ship, that shameful sham, up the Thames.
The bulk, apart from three exceptions, of Britain’s coastal and continental trading survivors is supported on the whole by individuals and 'companies' - how sad. Buildings in this land are not treated this way - hence, I suppose, for the Cutty Sark's massive bail-out.
There is some good news though:
In Essex, up at Maldon, the George Smeed, dating from 1882, has her mast and sprit up and is reported to be on the verge of rigging out... Her 'refit' has lasted for nearly 30 years...
The George Smeed at Cooks Yard, Maldon.
Over in Kent, at Hoo, close to the recently resurrected Buttercock Wharf, the Niagara, built in 1898 by Forrest of Wivenhoe, was seen rigging out back in April. She has been entered for the Jubilee Medway Barge Match...
The Niagara has been under restoration since being sold out of trade in the 1970s.
The Niagara with her foresail bent on...
As one BIG council destroys one, the man in the street, slaving, with no heritage funding has preserved for us all a little more of our marine heritage.
Southend had a barging heritage, once. It purports to be a 'sea side town' its maritime past helped in its rise as an entity rather than remaining the east end of Prittlewell. Maybe, Southend could have had a real Olympic Legacy ... their very own barge ... taking local school children afloat around the Thames basin ... following the local trade routes... Wow, wouldn't that have been something to shout about.
Don't be stupid...
Posted on 23 May 2012 by admin
Hadleigh's Olympic venture draws near...
Well, I was sailing along under Hadleigh's downs recently on a gloriously sunny day. Life had that spring feeling once again after what has seemed a prolonged bout of miserable damp conditions, but boy did the ground need it round these parts: it was only towards the end that water actually started running again in long dry woodland streams (too shallow for Whimbrel!).
Along the banks of saltings fringing Canvey Island's eastern flanks there were still some Brent geese dabbling in amongst the cord grass. A huge flock of curlews flew above me, as big as I've ever seen, heading who knows where... And, hovering and diving along the shallows were the first of the returning terns - a definite whiff of summer, surely.
As I moved higher up towards the old Salvation Army jetty cuckoos could be heard settling territorial differences then, above me, a skylark bathed the creek in glorious sound...
Up on the hills the 'mountain' bike implementation team were hard at work. A large chunk of the track can be seen from the creek as it courses to and fro across a valley. Near its head the stands and media centre (I presume) are up. Fencing snakes the hills too (to keep non ticket holders out...) The weather has come right for the ant like humans seen through my bins, beavering away, finishing their work.
A closer view of the course on Hadleigh downs.
Before long the Olympics will be but a dream: it's just a flash in time, then life, if it has affected you, will return to normality...
It was a good sail, better than my last - well that itself went very nicely, but the ending was not as planned - more on that another time or in the next book(?)... I have written about it in my club's news letter though...
Along the banks of saltings fringing Canvey Island's eastern flanks there were still some Brent geese dabbling in amongst the cord grass. A huge flock of curlews flew above me, as big as I've ever seen, heading who knows where... And, hovering and diving along the shallows were the first of the returning terns - a definite whiff of summer, surely.
As I moved higher up towards the old Salvation Army jetty cuckoos could be heard settling territorial differences then, above me, a skylark bathed the creek in glorious sound...
Up on the hills the 'mountain' bike implementation team were hard at work. A large chunk of the track can be seen from the creek as it courses to and fro across a valley. Near its head the stands and media centre (I presume) are up. Fencing snakes the hills too (to keep non ticket holders out...) The weather has come right for the ant like humans seen through my bins, beavering away, finishing their work.
A closer view of the course on Hadleigh downs.
Before long the Olympics will be but a dream: it's just a flash in time, then life, if it has affected you, will return to normality...
It was a good sail, better than my last - well that itself went very nicely, but the ending was not as planned - more on that another time or in the next book(?)... I have written about it in my club's news letter though...
Posted on 22 May 2012 by admin
Ditch-crawler's bibs and bobs and the Ethel Maud
There is a new pontoon at Gravesend. A man at Gravesham Council who I have been conversing with on another matter sent me a picture ( it is credited to him: he gave no other) of the new unit. It has a height of one and half metres - which is the standard for down stream pontoons on the tidal Thames.
It seems to be eminently suitable for spritsail barges, river ferries and tripper craft like the Waverley, but may not suit all yachts: they are welcome too. Yachts will be expected to use the inside. Low freeboard vessels may not be able to berth without damage ... my contact said that this is to be 'monitored' so they are aware. I will endeavour to ascertain and report...
Water and power is available and the gate is coded - presume it is obtained by arrangement. Gravesham Coucil want Gravesend to be thought of and used as a destination rather tha a place that is passed on passage up and down the river. The town, is after all, a historical water side town dating back to early times, being mentioned in the Doomsday Book.
Cambria and Reminder on new pontoon at Gravesend. Picture: Alan Kew
Cambria is going to be a regular user plus other sailing barges. Further new moorings have been laid for visitors to use/wait for locked yacht basin.
My contact keeps a boat at Shoregate Wharf, round from one of my childhood haunts when living aboard the sailing barge May Flower. I understand the dock has recently changed hands. Access is via a channel through the saltings from Milfordhope Creek.
The sailing barge Lady of the Lea went into the dock whilst on a mission for a programme recently aired on BBC 2 about food - they went in for some fruit to take upriver to Maidstone.
In the dock is the spritsail barge Ethel Maud. She has resided in a lighter since her journey from Milton Creek some years ago. I was in Queenborough when she passed by seemingly somewhat low in the water, but that may have been because her hull was distorted.
The May Flower alongside Maldon Hythe, autumn 1964, with Ethel Maud alongside recently fitted with spars from the William Cleverley. Both of Greens barges (Millers upstream) were together again. Other barge is the Ida. Beyond are thought to be Marjorie and Edith May - outer. Photo: Mrs G D Ardley
The Ethel Maud is back in shape, re-framed (nearly) and ready for her new outer skin. Beams and deck carlins are in, so maybe, we'll see her out on the water next year... The barge was built by Howard of Maldon in 1889 and is 45 NRT. Ignoring the Lady of the Lea, she'll be one of the smallest barges sailing... That is, unless the Westmoreland (43 NRT) makes it to the menders.
Ethel Maud in her lighter during 2004. Her typical Howard transom can be clearly seen.
I last saw the barge under way in 1974 when she and another barge were in Stangate the same time as my May Flower home was there.
It seems to be eminently suitable for spritsail barges, river ferries and tripper craft like the Waverley, but may not suit all yachts: they are welcome too. Yachts will be expected to use the inside. Low freeboard vessels may not be able to berth without damage ... my contact said that this is to be 'monitored' so they are aware. I will endeavour to ascertain and report...
Water and power is available and the gate is coded - presume it is obtained by arrangement. Gravesham Coucil want Gravesend to be thought of and used as a destination rather tha a place that is passed on passage up and down the river. The town, is after all, a historical water side town dating back to early times, being mentioned in the Doomsday Book.
Cambria and Reminder on new pontoon at Gravesend. Picture: Alan Kew
Cambria is going to be a regular user plus other sailing barges. Further new moorings have been laid for visitors to use/wait for locked yacht basin.
My contact keeps a boat at Shoregate Wharf, round from one of my childhood haunts when living aboard the sailing barge May Flower. I understand the dock has recently changed hands. Access is via a channel through the saltings from Milfordhope Creek.
The sailing barge Lady of the Lea went into the dock whilst on a mission for a programme recently aired on BBC 2 about food - they went in for some fruit to take upriver to Maidstone.
In the dock is the spritsail barge Ethel Maud. She has resided in a lighter since her journey from Milton Creek some years ago. I was in Queenborough when she passed by seemingly somewhat low in the water, but that may have been because her hull was distorted.
The May Flower alongside Maldon Hythe, autumn 1964, with Ethel Maud alongside recently fitted with spars from the William Cleverley. Both of Greens barges (Millers upstream) were together again. Other barge is the Ida. Beyond are thought to be Marjorie and Edith May - outer. Photo: Mrs G D Ardley
The Ethel Maud is back in shape, re-framed (nearly) and ready for her new outer skin. Beams and deck carlins are in, so maybe, we'll see her out on the water next year... The barge was built by Howard of Maldon in 1889 and is 45 NRT. Ignoring the Lady of the Lea, she'll be one of the smallest barges sailing... That is, unless the Westmoreland (43 NRT) makes it to the menders.
Ethel Maud in her lighter during 2004. Her typical Howard transom can be clearly seen.
I last saw the barge under way in 1974 when she and another barge were in Stangate the same time as my May Flower home was there.
Posted on 09 May 2012 by admin
Colours or racing flags
My mother recently passed to me two flags once flown on the sailing barge May Flower. The first is flag 'S' and was used when racing during the 1960s.
May Flower's 1960s racing flag ... it was later to be the colours used by the Mirosa.
The second is a little taxing, mysterious even: an old ship captain has been left a little perplexed too: it is not a number of letter... My mother said she thought it came with the barge when purchased from Green Brothers in 1950 ... phew! Was it a company recognition flag? Maybe someone out there can help?
The mystery flag...
May Flower's 1960s racing flag ... it was later to be the colours used by the Mirosa.
The second is a little taxing, mysterious even: an old ship captain has been left a little perplexed too: it is not a number of letter... My mother said she thought it came with the barge when purchased from Green Brothers in 1950 ... phew! Was it a company recognition flag? Maybe someone out there can help?
The mystery flag...
Posted on 29 Apr 2012 by admin
Ditch-crawler's Glorious Easter Days
The Easter weekend this year was largely inclement, the week after too. Shame really, especially after the wonderful weather experienced in the month - or months even - before. The week beforehand was fine ... but other issues prevented me from making use of those days.
On Good Friday: my mother who was staying with the mate and me decided she couldn't do our local churches traditional ecumenical walk, so all decided to accompany me to Maldon where I was due to interview people aboard the spritsail barge Reminder - owned by Topsail Charters - coming in with a Sea Change Trust group. The Sea Change Trust has chartered that good vessel over a several seasons now. See earlier article.
It was a fantastic day to be out on the water, that was clearly obvious not only from the morning's forecast but from the gently breeze lifting the bobs' of barges along the Hythe. After walking around and looking into a boatyard or two, buying two new small sail needles - needed aboard my Whimbrel - I eventually spied the Reminder reaching up past the Heybridge shore. I watched as she luffed up, carrying round Herring Point, and tacked. As soon as the tack was done, down came the foresail, allowing the barge to keep up to the wind. Going into the next tack, up went the foresail, backed, round the Reminder came then down foresail again ... and so it went on, tack after short tack. It was all done in a time honoured fashion. Her skipper that day was Richard Titchener, a man who will only use an engine if absolutely needed. He's often at Cambria's helm too ... and it is the way he'll operate the Sea Change Trust's barge, when she is built.
It reminded me of the way I once watched the spritsail barge EDME tack through Pin Mill's moorings to reach the hard - the wind was wrong for an inside reach down from near Clamp House, or Fox's Bottom. One of the crew went forward and pinched the sheet corner of the foresail to tighten it right in hard, allowing the skipper more drive. Then the sail was dumped as the helm luffed to clear an empty mooring ... alas it hadn't quite worked. Anchoring, lightly, she then ran a line to a 'kedge' buoy laid out on the flats to facilitate barge movements. The EDME passed close by my vessel by no more than a beam width too... But, the art of working these vessels under sail (she hasn't an engine anyway) alone is something quite awe inspiring. It is something I do too ... people are aware of my paucity of diesel use ... I do it so that I know I can do it, in varying conditions, and it is extremely satisfying. Most modern yachts are rarely seen 'working' in a similar fashion under sail... It's a sad fact, I believe!
The Reminder tacking up past the Maldon YC after rounding Herring Point, Good Friday, 2012.
Anyway, back to Maldon! The Reminder kept sailing until she was reaching along the promenade shore ... I was willing the barge to continue in, under sail... However, the sails were gathered in by the young crew. Ropes readied and fenders were hung as she came gently under power. Swinging across the tide the anchor was touched and round she came sweetly onto the quay. It was great.
I was soon aboard ... was quickly grabbed by Richard to help stow the foresail (I think he was testing me??) ... and got on with talking to the young people aboard. I was there for a magazine article - more on that when it is published. I was very impressed by their candour, honesty and obvious delight in their week away. '...we only used the engine when leaving ... and today's last bit...' one said, grinning broadly. The lad has started a sea based training ... after a troubled past.
My mother, approaching 81, was soon aboard too, assisted by two of the trainee crew. She was in her element, a young married girl back in 1951 aboard the May Flower ... dancing about the decks!
My sailing, oh yes, it was limited to just two sails. On Easter Saturday I dropped out of the creek, under sail, and decided for a soft sail under the hills. I found myself amongst a group of yachts on passage up Benfleet Creek to Canvey Island's other yacht club, the 'Benfleet', up by the barrier and bridge. It was a generous breeze, forcing but two tacks, and I passed the visitors' rearguard (having earlier kept clear of their tremulous passages from buoy to buoy) going along the Benfleet's mooring trots. The group were from Conyer Cruising club and the marina's 'retired' owner gave a cheery wave asking if I'd be over later in the year ... silly question: Conyer, the Swale and the Medway is, probably, the finest of sailing grounds...
I got another sail , while the mate had a bit of 'own time' going to see a film and then, abandoning the housework chores, nearly half way through, I scarpered to the creek for an early sail this last Monday morning, clearing the mooring around 0830. Ah it was great. I saw several grebes, avocet, waders and the numerous Brent geese still inhabiting the local marshes.
Up on the downs much activity was apparent. The stands around the start/finish of the all terrain bike event are being built. Fencing, to keep non-ticket holders out, is snaking around the slopes and much else besides seems to be happening ... wonderful ... I'll be following the Swale barge, smack and gaffers event a few miles south-east across the estuary when the ballyhoo gets underway! Glorious it will be too - round the Swale that is!
On Good Friday: my mother who was staying with the mate and me decided she couldn't do our local churches traditional ecumenical walk, so all decided to accompany me to Maldon where I was due to interview people aboard the spritsail barge Reminder - owned by Topsail Charters - coming in with a Sea Change Trust group. The Sea Change Trust has chartered that good vessel over a several seasons now. See earlier article.
It was a fantastic day to be out on the water, that was clearly obvious not only from the morning's forecast but from the gently breeze lifting the bobs' of barges along the Hythe. After walking around and looking into a boatyard or two, buying two new small sail needles - needed aboard my Whimbrel - I eventually spied the Reminder reaching up past the Heybridge shore. I watched as she luffed up, carrying round Herring Point, and tacked. As soon as the tack was done, down came the foresail, allowing the barge to keep up to the wind. Going into the next tack, up went the foresail, backed, round the Reminder came then down foresail again ... and so it went on, tack after short tack. It was all done in a time honoured fashion. Her skipper that day was Richard Titchener, a man who will only use an engine if absolutely needed. He's often at Cambria's helm too ... and it is the way he'll operate the Sea Change Trust's barge, when she is built.
It reminded me of the way I once watched the spritsail barge EDME tack through Pin Mill's moorings to reach the hard - the wind was wrong for an inside reach down from near Clamp House, or Fox's Bottom. One of the crew went forward and pinched the sheet corner of the foresail to tighten it right in hard, allowing the skipper more drive. Then the sail was dumped as the helm luffed to clear an empty mooring ... alas it hadn't quite worked. Anchoring, lightly, she then ran a line to a 'kedge' buoy laid out on the flats to facilitate barge movements. The EDME passed close by my vessel by no more than a beam width too... But, the art of working these vessels under sail (she hasn't an engine anyway) alone is something quite awe inspiring. It is something I do too ... people are aware of my paucity of diesel use ... I do it so that I know I can do it, in varying conditions, and it is extremely satisfying. Most modern yachts are rarely seen 'working' in a similar fashion under sail... It's a sad fact, I believe!
The Reminder tacking up past the Maldon YC after rounding Herring Point, Good Friday, 2012.
Anyway, back to Maldon! The Reminder kept sailing until she was reaching along the promenade shore ... I was willing the barge to continue in, under sail... However, the sails were gathered in by the young crew. Ropes readied and fenders were hung as she came gently under power. Swinging across the tide the anchor was touched and round she came sweetly onto the quay. It was great.
I was soon aboard ... was quickly grabbed by Richard to help stow the foresail (I think he was testing me??) ... and got on with talking to the young people aboard. I was there for a magazine article - more on that when it is published. I was very impressed by their candour, honesty and obvious delight in their week away. '...we only used the engine when leaving ... and today's last bit...' one said, grinning broadly. The lad has started a sea based training ... after a troubled past.
My mother, approaching 81, was soon aboard too, assisted by two of the trainee crew. She was in her element, a young married girl back in 1951 aboard the May Flower ... dancing about the decks!
My sailing, oh yes, it was limited to just two sails. On Easter Saturday I dropped out of the creek, under sail, and decided for a soft sail under the hills. I found myself amongst a group of yachts on passage up Benfleet Creek to Canvey Island's other yacht club, the 'Benfleet', up by the barrier and bridge. It was a generous breeze, forcing but two tacks, and I passed the visitors' rearguard (having earlier kept clear of their tremulous passages from buoy to buoy) going along the Benfleet's mooring trots. The group were from Conyer Cruising club and the marina's 'retired' owner gave a cheery wave asking if I'd be over later in the year ... silly question: Conyer, the Swale and the Medway is, probably, the finest of sailing grounds...
I got another sail , while the mate had a bit of 'own time' going to see a film and then, abandoning the housework chores, nearly half way through, I scarpered to the creek for an early sail this last Monday morning, clearing the mooring around 0830. Ah it was great. I saw several grebes, avocet, waders and the numerous Brent geese still inhabiting the local marshes.
Up on the downs much activity was apparent. The stands around the start/finish of the all terrain bike event are being built. Fencing, to keep non-ticket holders out, is snaking around the slopes and much else besides seems to be happening ... wonderful ... I'll be following the Swale barge, smack and gaffers event a few miles south-east across the estuary when the ballyhoo gets underway! Glorious it will be too - round the Swale that is!
Posted on 18 Apr 2012 by admin
Stop Estuary Airport
On Friday I went over to Chatham to view an art exhibition at the invitation of Dave Wise of www.davewise.biz a local artist - mainly photography - and leader of canoe trails around the Medway and Swale. See also: www.discoveryourestuary.com which Dave has a handle on too.
The exhibition was in defence of the Grain peninsular, the Medway marshes and the lower Thames: madcap Boris, Mayor of London, does intend to cover the region in concrete, given any chance. 'Why doesn't he build it in Hyde Park?' I asked someone! It runs to the end of this week. It is at The Nucleus Gallery off Chatham High Street (No. 272 - Tel:01634 812108) almost opposite an Iceland Store, up a side turning. Parking can be found close by off the main road opposite back entrance to Iceland! Enjoy, marvel and it'll make you think...
Painting of The Boris and Lord Foster Folly, by Kevin Clarkson a 'Medway' based artist.
It must be stopped: it is in the wrong place: it should, if needed, be north of London to allow the rest of mainland UK to reach it by rail/road easily. Do we need a giant airport (I haven't flown for 12 plus years...)
Any local sailor from the lower Thames region, and upriver, would have to go a long way east to make an entry into the Medway - if you'd wanted to after an airport was built. Planes will be buzzing your mast tops, deafening you and ruining your health ... I could go on.
Go to the web site: www.stopestuaryairport.co.uk for more information on the problems associated, not least of the mass of bird life in this area.
Local Authorities both sides of the river are against the plans ... you wouldn't know that on the Essex side: news about it has been scant indeed.
The exhibition was in defence of the Grain peninsular, the Medway marshes and the lower Thames: madcap Boris, Mayor of London, does intend to cover the region in concrete, given any chance. 'Why doesn't he build it in Hyde Park?' I asked someone! It runs to the end of this week. It is at The Nucleus Gallery off Chatham High Street (No. 272 - Tel:01634 812108) almost opposite an Iceland Store, up a side turning. Parking can be found close by off the main road opposite back entrance to Iceland! Enjoy, marvel and it'll make you think...
Painting of The Boris and Lord Foster Folly, by Kevin Clarkson a 'Medway' based artist.
It must be stopped: it is in the wrong place: it should, if needed, be north of London to allow the rest of mainland UK to reach it by rail/road easily. Do we need a giant airport (I haven't flown for 12 plus years...)
Any local sailor from the lower Thames region, and upriver, would have to go a long way east to make an entry into the Medway - if you'd wanted to after an airport was built. Planes will be buzzing your mast tops, deafening you and ruining your health ... I could go on.
Go to the web site: www.stopestuaryairport.co.uk for more information on the problems associated, not least of the mass of bird life in this area.
Local Authorities both sides of the river are against the plans ... you wouldn't know that on the Essex side: news about it has been scant indeed.
Posted on 02 Apr 2012 by admin
Cabin Lamps
Sitting round the cabin lamp was and continues to be a past time conducted by many sea salts. This tradition goes back a long way. Barges had a lovely cabin lamp held in a pear shaped brass tube frame and hung from a beam it would give sufficient light for general conveniences.
My old sailing barge home had one such lamp ... my Mother still has it, minus the outer shade glass, but I know where to find another now: I have found a place selling wicks for my own boat's cabin lamps and, more importantly, my Davey & Co dioptric lens riding light ... for which I now have a metre of spare wick, enough to see me out of my sailing life, in all probability!
All sorts of parts can be obtained from Old Flames Ltd. Web site is: www.oldflames-lamparts.co.uk
Telephone no: 01252 328844
They were very helpful indeed!
By chance I went on the Cambria web site this morning too ... Matt the news man was waxing lyrical about getting parts from ebay for the Cambria's aft cabin lamp ... I wonder how much was paid: Old flames were very well priced for glass funnels compared to the extortion offered by marine stores... Wicks are really well priced!
The glow from a traditional lamp is something special - we use ours a lot. Some will know that my mate gets a five minute ticket for after dark reading: electric light means engine use, diesel burning from running the engine and pollution!
The glow enjoyed by Arthur Ransome aboard Nancy Blacket ... taken by Keith Worsdell of the Catalyst from Lower Halstow YC - thanks Keith! Keith met the NB at Queenborough last weekend...
Anyway ... I've been at it recently titivating the good ship's varnish work - little damage from the colder season was experienced and those areas have been rubbed back and touched up with several thinned coats already, adding another on each visit. The gas locker got a repaint too... I couldn't go sailing because my mainsail is still being repaired: so that event has had some uses!
The dinghy is finished ... the boy ... the grown up son commented that she looked like a proper little 'Whimbrel' now! She awaits her return to the club's dinghy park when I manage to knobble the boy to trailer it down for me. He's the one with the tow bar...
P.S. Dinghy back down creek and 'tested' - looks good...
And mainsail fixed by W Sails of Leigh-on-Sea, bent on and given an outing... Three hour sail on a misty Friday lunch time, going along nicely in a gentle breeze always in a pocket of warm sunshine. There were a few others out too - even a little Tideway clinker dinghy. Lovely!
My old sailing barge home had one such lamp ... my Mother still has it, minus the outer shade glass, but I know where to find another now: I have found a place selling wicks for my own boat's cabin lamps and, more importantly, my Davey & Co dioptric lens riding light ... for which I now have a metre of spare wick, enough to see me out of my sailing life, in all probability!
All sorts of parts can be obtained from Old Flames Ltd. Web site is: www.oldflames-lamparts.co.uk
Telephone no: 01252 328844
They were very helpful indeed!
By chance I went on the Cambria web site this morning too ... Matt the news man was waxing lyrical about getting parts from ebay for the Cambria's aft cabin lamp ... I wonder how much was paid: Old flames were very well priced for glass funnels compared to the extortion offered by marine stores... Wicks are really well priced!
The glow from a traditional lamp is something special - we use ours a lot. Some will know that my mate gets a five minute ticket for after dark reading: electric light means engine use, diesel burning from running the engine and pollution!
The glow enjoyed by Arthur Ransome aboard Nancy Blacket ... taken by Keith Worsdell of the Catalyst from Lower Halstow YC - thanks Keith! Keith met the NB at Queenborough last weekend...
Anyway ... I've been at it recently titivating the good ship's varnish work - little damage from the colder season was experienced and those areas have been rubbed back and touched up with several thinned coats already, adding another on each visit. The gas locker got a repaint too... I couldn't go sailing because my mainsail is still being repaired: so that event has had some uses!
The dinghy is finished ... the boy ... the grown up son commented that she looked like a proper little 'Whimbrel' now! She awaits her return to the club's dinghy park when I manage to knobble the boy to trailer it down for me. He's the one with the tow bar...
P.S. Dinghy back down creek and 'tested' - looks good...
And mainsail fixed by W Sails of Leigh-on-Sea, bent on and given an outing... Three hour sail on a misty Friday lunch time, going along nicely in a gentle breeze always in a pocket of warm sunshine. There were a few others out too - even a little Tideway clinker dinghy. Lovely!
Posted on 22 Mar 2012 by admin
Whimbrel goes bird watching
I was out on the water recently when I saw something strange. A 'man' was walking on water - he seemed to be tracking past the marshes on the eastern end of Two Tree Island. Grabbing my binoculars I found it was indeed a man ... with what looked like a paddle in his hands. On what though? I sailed a little closer then saw that he was on a small sail board (I presumed). He had a pair of binoculars round his neck ... but not a life jacket (Madness, surely?) and seemed content with his lot. I watched until I saw him closing the land and safety.
A novel form of transport to go bird watching on...
It seemed a strange way to go bird watching. I expect he was able to get close: wildfowl tend to ignore silent boats until they perceive the object as 'threatening' in some way, lift off and settle again. Birds can do that several times, until for some reason they do what should have been the first option, lift off and settle behind ... ah well!
A few days later I sailed up towards the Island's other yacht club ... passing a mud bank on the way I spotted a mass of birds fighting for space along the edges. It is one of my greatest pleasures and that of the mate too, to witness this marvel in amongst the marshes surrounding our patch - a place full of natural richness. There were gulls and oystercatchers poking the mud; waders, probably red shank, skittering about; and avocet, sieving the surface, all moved about their business. In the water were several species of duck. A bird dropped in amongst the flock and of a sudden there was a collective fight for airspace ... they whirled round and settled again. It was a fascinating sight to watch and its a good job my little sloop can look after herself for a little while!
One settled ... the flock took off...
It was magic. My destination had been up to the 'Benfleet' to wave to the club's window ... one can't see in but the lunch time crowd can see out ... I'd been asked by a parent of a lad who has disabilities to wave: the young man enjoys seeing my sail come closer and closer until I do a pirouette off their slip and sail away. The lad enjoys the water and has trips down the creek from time to time ... it costs nothing to oblige and give something back for my enjoyment too...
A novel form of transport to go bird watching on...
It seemed a strange way to go bird watching. I expect he was able to get close: wildfowl tend to ignore silent boats until they perceive the object as 'threatening' in some way, lift off and settle again. Birds can do that several times, until for some reason they do what should have been the first option, lift off and settle behind ... ah well!
A few days later I sailed up towards the Island's other yacht club ... passing a mud bank on the way I spotted a mass of birds fighting for space along the edges. It is one of my greatest pleasures and that of the mate too, to witness this marvel in amongst the marshes surrounding our patch - a place full of natural richness. There were gulls and oystercatchers poking the mud; waders, probably red shank, skittering about; and avocet, sieving the surface, all moved about their business. In the water were several species of duck. A bird dropped in amongst the flock and of a sudden there was a collective fight for airspace ... they whirled round and settled again. It was a fascinating sight to watch and its a good job my little sloop can look after herself for a little while!
One settled ... the flock took off...
It was magic. My destination had been up to the 'Benfleet' to wave to the club's window ... one can't see in but the lunch time crowd can see out ... I'd been asked by a parent of a lad who has disabilities to wave: the young man enjoys seeing my sail come closer and closer until I do a pirouette off their slip and sail away. The lad enjoys the water and has trips down the creek from time to time ... it costs nothing to oblige and give something back for my enjoyment too...
Posted on 18 Mar 2012 by admin
The Sea Change Sailing Trust
I had an enterprising visit to Maldon recently to pass over a book (books) to a man who wanted a signed copy of 'May Flower' and being interested in Finesse craft had a copy of 'Jottings' too. I was there to also meet Captain Richard Titchener. We talked a little about my past, barges and big ships, and then got onto the trust of which he is Executive Officer. I offered to write about it... More on that later.
I had first come across this trust around two to three years ago. It struck a cord with me: of their intention is to build a new barge. She is to be based on the construction drawings of the last full sized spritsail barge to be built, the Blue Mermaid of 1931. The Blue Mermaid was sunk by a mine near the West Hook Middle Buoy, up the Swin, in July 1941. My old sailing childhood home, the May Flower, went back to look for survivors - sadly there were none. The new barge will be built in Essex within a budget of around £500K - a third of Cambria's rebuild costs.
The Cambria anchored off Mersea Stone, River Colne, whilst working with The Sea Change Sailing Trust, July 2011.
My thoughts ran to what the money ploughed into that white elephant up at Greenwich would do: just think, at half a million a piece we could have had a veritable fleet of useful craft with a fighting fund to take youngsters afloat - doing something positive... I find it quite sad to think about really.
The trust works with the disadvantaged within our society. It picks them up, takes them to sea, works with them, engenders self belief and empowers personal change, and then continues to mentor back in the community. Further time afloat can take place too. It is all good stuff.
It is planned for the barge to work a cargo. The ship and young people would then, together, achieve something positive, cementing the interpersonal work of the crew and mentors. Last year they used the Reminder for twenty weeks ... achieving some 680 berth days. They also had use of the Cambria for a month shortly after she was 'sent' back into service.
If you haven't looked at the trust's web site then please do ... they need your help. www.seachangesailingtrust.org.uk
I had first come across this trust around two to three years ago. It struck a cord with me: of their intention is to build a new barge. She is to be based on the construction drawings of the last full sized spritsail barge to be built, the Blue Mermaid of 1931. The Blue Mermaid was sunk by a mine near the West Hook Middle Buoy, up the Swin, in July 1941. My old sailing childhood home, the May Flower, went back to look for survivors - sadly there were none. The new barge will be built in Essex within a budget of around £500K - a third of Cambria's rebuild costs.
The Cambria anchored off Mersea Stone, River Colne, whilst working with The Sea Change Sailing Trust, July 2011.
My thoughts ran to what the money ploughed into that white elephant up at Greenwich would do: just think, at half a million a piece we could have had a veritable fleet of useful craft with a fighting fund to take youngsters afloat - doing something positive... I find it quite sad to think about really.
The trust works with the disadvantaged within our society. It picks them up, takes them to sea, works with them, engenders self belief and empowers personal change, and then continues to mentor back in the community. Further time afloat can take place too. It is all good stuff.
It is planned for the barge to work a cargo. The ship and young people would then, together, achieve something positive, cementing the interpersonal work of the crew and mentors. Last year they used the Reminder for twenty weeks ... achieving some 680 berth days. They also had use of the Cambria for a month shortly after she was 'sent' back into service.
If you haven't looked at the trust's web site then please do ... they need your help. www.seachangesailingtrust.org.uk
Posted on 09 Mar 2012 by admin
The Essex Book Festival 2012
One of the things I have been consistently interested in for a number of years, especially after my first book was published in 2007, is the Essex Book Festival. I have taken part in events as a festival author twice and been interviewed twice too, attending the opening event for five years.
At the end of last year the festival's lead patron, Essex County Council, passed the reigns over to a new Festival Board, made up of volunteers who include Barbara Erskine, Francis Wheen, Germaine Greer and Sylvia Kent, all well respected authors. There is a director, and a sprinkling of staff - all volunteers. An associated group has been set up, and is currently chaired by Jane Lomas, called The Friends of Essex Book Festival. The group is open to all interested people - go to: www.essexbookfestival.org.uk for details.
As a founding friend of the Essex Book Festival as instituted in 2012, I joined a merry little throng at Chelmsford Library for drinks and nibbles - the wine looked tempting, but a drive home put me off, so it was lemonade folks... While I'm on Chelmsford Library, a number of their staff stayed behind after work to facilitate the gathering. Essex County Council has continued its support with library use and a little funding ... someone cracked a joke, Dave Monk from BBC Essex , I believe, and the ECC representative, with many titters, said the little had become even less! (it was a joke folks...) I met Darryl Webber of the Essex Chronicle too - he edits the 'Go' paper.
The inaugural gathering of the Founding Friends Essex Book Festival 2012
I had several interesting chats to several of the Friends and some were long discussions about my own books and the type of writing I get up to. It never ceases to amaze me how little many people know of the unique coast that lies so close to so many of our towns and villages, and too, of the beauties to be found above in Suffolk's estuarial waters and across the Thames in North Kent's magical marshlands: to me the Essex area is a gem buried for too long in amongst England's skirts... Hey Ho!
I had an email from a man today, a fellow Finesse owner, who was travelling up to London by train and saw a pair of tan sails moving along the water towards Benfleet ... he said, 'Was it you by any chance...' Well, who else fitted that description? The only other vessel with tan sails which comes and goes up there is a little gaffer sailed by my friend Dick Smith of the BYC - and it wasn't him!
I've often thought of those souls who have to travel to town, daily, to earn a crust, but I spent 30 years - apart from leave periods - on big ships at sea and had to grab my sailing when I could, sometimes in the off seasons too. So, do I feel remorse? Well actually, no... I continue to make the most of what God gifts us. Read back a little to that departure at around 0800 just before Christmas... I was of course sailing in amongst the gem in the midst of Castle Point, that much maligned place and the venue for the Olympic all terrain cycle event in a few months time, when the whole world will learn to appreciate its beauty too.
At the end of last year the festival's lead patron, Essex County Council, passed the reigns over to a new Festival Board, made up of volunteers who include Barbara Erskine, Francis Wheen, Germaine Greer and Sylvia Kent, all well respected authors. There is a director, and a sprinkling of staff - all volunteers. An associated group has been set up, and is currently chaired by Jane Lomas, called The Friends of Essex Book Festival. The group is open to all interested people - go to: www.essexbookfestival.org.uk for details.
As a founding friend of the Essex Book Festival as instituted in 2012, I joined a merry little throng at Chelmsford Library for drinks and nibbles - the wine looked tempting, but a drive home put me off, so it was lemonade folks... While I'm on Chelmsford Library, a number of their staff stayed behind after work to facilitate the gathering. Essex County Council has continued its support with library use and a little funding ... someone cracked a joke, Dave Monk from BBC Essex , I believe, and the ECC representative, with many titters, said the little had become even less! (it was a joke folks...) I met Darryl Webber of the Essex Chronicle too - he edits the 'Go' paper.
The inaugural gathering of the Founding Friends Essex Book Festival 2012
I had several interesting chats to several of the Friends and some were long discussions about my own books and the type of writing I get up to. It never ceases to amaze me how little many people know of the unique coast that lies so close to so many of our towns and villages, and too, of the beauties to be found above in Suffolk's estuarial waters and across the Thames in North Kent's magical marshlands: to me the Essex area is a gem buried for too long in amongst England's skirts... Hey Ho!
I had an email from a man today, a fellow Finesse owner, who was travelling up to London by train and saw a pair of tan sails moving along the water towards Benfleet ... he said, 'Was it you by any chance...' Well, who else fitted that description? The only other vessel with tan sails which comes and goes up there is a little gaffer sailed by my friend Dick Smith of the BYC - and it wasn't him!
I've often thought of those souls who have to travel to town, daily, to earn a crust, but I spent 30 years - apart from leave periods - on big ships at sea and had to grab my sailing when I could, sometimes in the off seasons too. So, do I feel remorse? Well actually, no... I continue to make the most of what God gifts us. Read back a little to that departure at around 0800 just before Christmas... I was of course sailing in amongst the gem in the midst of Castle Point, that much maligned place and the venue for the Olympic all terrain cycle event in a few months time, when the whole world will learn to appreciate its beauty too.
Posted on 29 Feb 2012 by admin
Ditch-crawlers and Creeksailors
Ready About On The Blackwater by Tony Smith, published by, Smaller Boat Publications, 2011, ISBN: 978-0-9569030-0-6
Tony Smith, the man who has recently taken over Charlie Stock's Shoalwaters, has published a booklet (2011) about the peripheral creeks, inlets and gullies around the River Blackwater. The book relates to his wanderings in his previous little cruiser, Huffler, the boat he owned when I met Tony and a few other Blackwater creeksailors on a visit to Charlie Stock on the last day of July 2010.
I found the booklet interesting for a number of reasons and it will grace Whimbrel's library, especially, because of its chartlet indicating all the places one can get into in a pocket cruiser, capable of taking the mud comfortably, or a dinghy - which is my main interest, though I do sail my Finesse 24 into some tight spots.
Ditch-crawling or creek sailing, whatever term you prefer, is the type of cruising that all should enjoy a taste of before jumping aboard a shiny new piece of whiteness straight from the stands of a boat show: it is then you truly appreciate the larger river beyond, wherever you sail.
My wife, the mate of my own cruising yarns, chuckled at seeing a picture of Church Wharf, Salcott, then grimaced as she remembered slipping and falling down beside our tender - some years ago. Oh how muddy she got. Our boy thought it a hoot and drew a picture in our log book to commemorate the inauspicious event! Memories, wonderful things and this book awoke many of my own!
It is sad, but the majority of today's sailors sail up and down rivers: there are many like the Blackwater, and actually see little of their magic. This book, and others, should be read and each reader should vow to go forth and explore, as Tony has...
Tony does though appear to give huge credit to Charlie Stock and his methods, rightly too, but Charlie's trade has been handed down by generations of sailors right back into the Corinthian age, when, for instance, there was a small boat cruising group based around the River Crouch. All rivers had these sailors, professional or otherwise. They had none of today’s technology - only, perhaps, a compass, pole and lead to help. The inimitable mid twentieth century editor of East Coast Rivers, Jack Coote, sounded his way up into creeks, during and before his editorship, recording a wealth of pilotage details ... he taught his daughters the art too. So, ’nothing new’ echoes loudly: I've done it from around 1960 after I first learnt to row.
In the book's blurb, Tony is referred to as 'Carpenter Smith': that is his trade; however, this is also rather apt because he has constructed a gun punt of the typical West Mersea type under the watchful eye and tutelage of retired Mersea shipwright, John Millgate. This, for me, was one of the booklets more interesting aspects, a highlight even.
Enjoy!
Posted on 23 Feb 2012 by admin
Meeting - Save the brick barge Westmoreland
My spy over in Kent (My mother...) has told me that there was a big meeting aboard the Edith May - Sat 18th Feb - between interested local people and the 'committee' set up to bring the Westmoreland home. The plan is to bring her back to Lower Halstow, into the dock, for a rebuild. The barge belongs to the old brickmaking village: she is 'their' brick barge... The barge was actually built by White at Conyer, but barge building took place just to the right of the dock's entrance (going in) for a short period and a number of barges were built by Eastwood Brick Co.
A pressure group has been put in place to persuade the Parish Council to support the project. The barge would use the blocks that the Edith May sits on as well as a lighter, it is understood. It is planned to institute a training scheme for young apprentice shipwrights - this is exciting stuff.
Mirosa leading the Revival and then Westmoreland in 1954 Medway barge match ... will the Westmoreland soon joust with Mirosa again... Picture: Gwen Ardley
Kent is fast becoming the epicentre of barge repair and rebuilding, a long overdue realignment: Kent, in many respects, is the home of the spritsail barge, commonly known as the Thames barge ... from around he 1880s the greater majority were built in Kent yards, some of those old locations are now in the over expanded county of London, right up to the Greenwich peninsula. Deptford Creek was the old county boundary.
The Westmoreland has a clutch of parts that came off my old sailing home, the May Flower - which adds a bit of relish for me!
Moving onto sailing matters: I did get out for a sail a week ago last Friday - got fed up with the snow and stuff and cleared the boat's decks. Then I had a thoroughly enjoyable jaunt round the local yacht clubs in a circuit from my creek. It was cold, dry and there was plenty of sunshine. Double layer trousers and two pairs of walking socks kept me as warm as toast. There were no other mad fools out! Neap tides with times at the ends of the day prevented any more sailing for a week, but that sail was a tonic and it kept me grinning for a few days.
This last Saturday I attended a symposium at The Museum of Docklands with the general title of Thames Shipbuilding and Thames built ships. It was both thoroughly enjoyable and highly educational.
A paper by Dr Damien Goodburn about a dig taking place at Three Quays, just upstream of the Tower of London, was fascinating stuff. Weaving gently through wharf layers, a Medieval ship/boat yard has been found ... with apprentice pieces buried within the wharf's infill! Talking to Damien, I discovered that he spent some of his childhood years aboard an old sailing barge, up the Thames above Chiswick. The barge, Waveney, had lost her sails by then, finally ended up at Emsworth, Hampshire, where she was hulked. It was his barge childhood that inspired his passion for looking into old vessels...
Then along came archaeologist Gustav Milne ... with an interesting look at what a raft of community groups are doing, with some experts, looking at the shore line. I found that Gustav was part of a team that looked at the last remaining vessel hulks and remnants in Whitewall Creek, Frindsbury (Strood), Kent, before the area disappeared beneath layers of infill and concrete to create an industrial estate - thinking about what could have been has always made me mad! Wow, it could have been a natural waterside park, mud to trees, alas... I wrote about it in 'May Flower' and 'Salt Marsh & Mud'...
There then followed a series of superb lectures, including a look at the Great Eastern's builder, John Scott Russell. The last described the reasons for the removal of Thornycroft from Chiswick to Woolston, Southampton, and its social impact, or perceived impact: the relater was fed a load of bull by an old man remembering his family's past... It was good. Well done to the organisers.
Monday this week was a cracking morning. After hearing the forecast and knowing the mid range tide was due to top at around noon I made my way to the empty creek, empty of people that is, and readied the boat ... the tide was a slow one and I eventually got away some 45 minutes after a 'normal' departure. The radio had crackled with a river broadcast while waiting with the information that the tides were half a metre below...
Leaving the creek I passed a flock of Brent geese feeding amongst the cord grass stems from last year's growth. A little grebe popped up, briefly before diving back down over the shallows hunting for food. The wind was a south-south westerly, which meant a casual reach up Hadleigh Ray to 'The Benfleet' was possible ... it gave time to appreciate this gem of a place. Sailing in that direction; the area's hillside forest of housing that stretches from Leigh, eastward into the distance, is out of sight; Hadleigh's splendid downs rising high above the creek are virtually free of manmade structures, although the land is clearly shaped by man's hands.
Reaching the old Salvation Army wharf and lifting my gaze towards the Olympic bike riding course, I grinned at the thought that a 'pass' will be deemed a requirement to navigate this creek during the two days of eventing ... I laughed: the tides are 6 and 6s over that weekend and it'll be a sea of mud! Me and the Mate, well, we're planning to be far away ... the Swale Barge Match takes place that weekend, so I expect we'll be in the area with visits to Whitstable, Faversham and Conyer in mind.
Benfleet YC from the water... Seen early January.
I reached up towards the creek's barrier where I turned for home, stemming the flood tide admirably with the wind on an aft quarter ... I had a spanking run for home. Off my creek I stowed the mainsail with a view to sailing in, but alas the wind had more west and was unhelpful ... so the 'new' engine was fired up, briefly. It was a grand day to be afloat, indeed.
A pressure group has been put in place to persuade the Parish Council to support the project. The barge would use the blocks that the Edith May sits on as well as a lighter, it is understood. It is planned to institute a training scheme for young apprentice shipwrights - this is exciting stuff.
Mirosa leading the Revival and then Westmoreland in 1954 Medway barge match ... will the Westmoreland soon joust with Mirosa again... Picture: Gwen Ardley
Kent is fast becoming the epicentre of barge repair and rebuilding, a long overdue realignment: Kent, in many respects, is the home of the spritsail barge, commonly known as the Thames barge ... from around he 1880s the greater majority were built in Kent yards, some of those old locations are now in the over expanded county of London, right up to the Greenwich peninsula. Deptford Creek was the old county boundary.
The Westmoreland has a clutch of parts that came off my old sailing home, the May Flower - which adds a bit of relish for me!
Moving onto sailing matters: I did get out for a sail a week ago last Friday - got fed up with the snow and stuff and cleared the boat's decks. Then I had a thoroughly enjoyable jaunt round the local yacht clubs in a circuit from my creek. It was cold, dry and there was plenty of sunshine. Double layer trousers and two pairs of walking socks kept me as warm as toast. There were no other mad fools out! Neap tides with times at the ends of the day prevented any more sailing for a week, but that sail was a tonic and it kept me grinning for a few days.
This last Saturday I attended a symposium at The Museum of Docklands with the general title of Thames Shipbuilding and Thames built ships. It was both thoroughly enjoyable and highly educational.
A paper by Dr Damien Goodburn about a dig taking place at Three Quays, just upstream of the Tower of London, was fascinating stuff. Weaving gently through wharf layers, a Medieval ship/boat yard has been found ... with apprentice pieces buried within the wharf's infill! Talking to Damien, I discovered that he spent some of his childhood years aboard an old sailing barge, up the Thames above Chiswick. The barge, Waveney, had lost her sails by then, finally ended up at Emsworth, Hampshire, where she was hulked. It was his barge childhood that inspired his passion for looking into old vessels...
Then along came archaeologist Gustav Milne ... with an interesting look at what a raft of community groups are doing, with some experts, looking at the shore line. I found that Gustav was part of a team that looked at the last remaining vessel hulks and remnants in Whitewall Creek, Frindsbury (Strood), Kent, before the area disappeared beneath layers of infill and concrete to create an industrial estate - thinking about what could have been has always made me mad! Wow, it could have been a natural waterside park, mud to trees, alas... I wrote about it in 'May Flower' and 'Salt Marsh & Mud'...
There then followed a series of superb lectures, including a look at the Great Eastern's builder, John Scott Russell. The last described the reasons for the removal of Thornycroft from Chiswick to Woolston, Southampton, and its social impact, or perceived impact: the relater was fed a load of bull by an old man remembering his family's past... It was good. Well done to the organisers.
Monday this week was a cracking morning. After hearing the forecast and knowing the mid range tide was due to top at around noon I made my way to the empty creek, empty of people that is, and readied the boat ... the tide was a slow one and I eventually got away some 45 minutes after a 'normal' departure. The radio had crackled with a river broadcast while waiting with the information that the tides were half a metre below...
Leaving the creek I passed a flock of Brent geese feeding amongst the cord grass stems from last year's growth. A little grebe popped up, briefly before diving back down over the shallows hunting for food. The wind was a south-south westerly, which meant a casual reach up Hadleigh Ray to 'The Benfleet' was possible ... it gave time to appreciate this gem of a place. Sailing in that direction; the area's hillside forest of housing that stretches from Leigh, eastward into the distance, is out of sight; Hadleigh's splendid downs rising high above the creek are virtually free of manmade structures, although the land is clearly shaped by man's hands.
Reaching the old Salvation Army wharf and lifting my gaze towards the Olympic bike riding course, I grinned at the thought that a 'pass' will be deemed a requirement to navigate this creek during the two days of eventing ... I laughed: the tides are 6 and 6s over that weekend and it'll be a sea of mud! Me and the Mate, well, we're planning to be far away ... the Swale Barge Match takes place that weekend, so I expect we'll be in the area with visits to Whitstable, Faversham and Conyer in mind.
Benfleet YC from the water... Seen early January.
I reached up towards the creek's barrier where I turned for home, stemming the flood tide admirably with the wind on an aft quarter ... I had a spanking run for home. Off my creek I stowed the mainsail with a view to sailing in, but alas the wind had more west and was unhelpful ... so the 'new' engine was fired up, briefly. It was a grand day to be afloat, indeed.
Posted on 20 Feb 2012 by admin
Ditch-crawler waiting for the tide...
Ah yes, I had a wonderful, stolen sail last Saturday just a few hours before the heavens dumped around 200mm of snow on the estuary. After visiting the creek to do some stuff with the usual crowd at my club and finding they were knocking off I beat a retreat: the pond was deep in snow still. I checked the boat out of course and took a picture ... didn't try getting aboard.
Deep and even...
By the end of the week, a week mainly trapped in doors ... apart from my activities with Essex Adult College, I thought I'd check the boat, again. I was well wrapped up. Before I knew what I was doing I'd started to clear the decks and cabin top of snow. The sun came out too and before long with a steaming mug of hot chocolate in my mitts I watched as the wetness on the decks evaporated.
Out came the jib sail bag, mains'l cover off and we were ready...
Waiting for the tide...
Suffice to say I had 2 1/2 hours of pure enjoyment, sailing back into the creek and onto my mooring. Poor little engine had only a momentary bit of action earlier to clear the berth - with sails slating: wind was directly ahead of me...
While I was out a couple of Easy(?) Jets came trundling over the top of Canvey Island spewing noise and pollution. Practice flights, ready for the big day when they're going to be in and out all day. Goodness me, my thoughts ran to Mad Boris and his grand plan for an airport even closer to the creek across the Thames on the Isle of Grain. What madnes... Eh?
My personal thoughts on this matter: If Boris wants another London Airport - why doesn't he bulldoze a chunk of London and build it there? Quite simple really ... and they wouldn't have so far to travel!!! Oh yes, it must be fifteen years since I last left terra firma (or the water of course), so I'm not a regular user...
In fact, it makes my blood boil when people say, 'Cor what a great idea ... think of the jobs ...' No, the jobs would go to people coming into the area ... on the whole. What about the birds ... is Boris and his ‘merry men' going to communicate with them and say, '...now you can't come to the Thames estuary any more ... but we'll build you another home ... where ... ah yes, well, we did think of it ... but you'll find somewhere to go ... won't your my dear feathered friends...'
Like heck they will ... News flash, imagine it (sadly) 'Jumbo Downed by Brents...'
Ah yes, the advent of digital TV has saved my blood pressure hugely: I no longer shout at the TV when the local news comes on. Local, did I hear you say, well LONDON, and I don't live in London, have no affinity to London, yet I've watched, steamed at, shouted at London news for many years, well, actually I used to switch off ... now I'm switched on - to BBC East - and found that that place people love to patronise as an offshoot of the east end and white stiletto’s has a different and far more interesting reality (well, we who live here knew that...). The programme actually has items that are covered by Look East reporters. And to them I say thank you! Well I know you've been doing it for years, but now those in the south of the eastern region can appreciate it too... Can't be bothered with the 'other channel': it doesn't cover the southern area for the weather... I was thinking of writing to them ... can't be bothered at the moment...
Ah well, I did have a wonderful sail ... time for thoughts to float around the mind. ‘Cor it was great.’
I received through the post recently from Tony Smith a copy of his book, Ready About on the Blackwater, describing the creeks and guts that can be sailed into on the river. Once read, I have promised a review...
Deep and even...
By the end of the week, a week mainly trapped in doors ... apart from my activities with Essex Adult College, I thought I'd check the boat, again. I was well wrapped up. Before I knew what I was doing I'd started to clear the decks and cabin top of snow. The sun came out too and before long with a steaming mug of hot chocolate in my mitts I watched as the wetness on the decks evaporated.
Out came the jib sail bag, mains'l cover off and we were ready...
Waiting for the tide...
Suffice to say I had 2 1/2 hours of pure enjoyment, sailing back into the creek and onto my mooring. Poor little engine had only a momentary bit of action earlier to clear the berth - with sails slating: wind was directly ahead of me...
While I was out a couple of Easy(?) Jets came trundling over the top of Canvey Island spewing noise and pollution. Practice flights, ready for the big day when they're going to be in and out all day. Goodness me, my thoughts ran to Mad Boris and his grand plan for an airport even closer to the creek across the Thames on the Isle of Grain. What madnes... Eh?
My personal thoughts on this matter: If Boris wants another London Airport - why doesn't he bulldoze a chunk of London and build it there? Quite simple really ... and they wouldn't have so far to travel!!! Oh yes, it must be fifteen years since I last left terra firma (or the water of course), so I'm not a regular user...
In fact, it makes my blood boil when people say, 'Cor what a great idea ... think of the jobs ...' No, the jobs would go to people coming into the area ... on the whole. What about the birds ... is Boris and his ‘merry men' going to communicate with them and say, '...now you can't come to the Thames estuary any more ... but we'll build you another home ... where ... ah yes, well, we did think of it ... but you'll find somewhere to go ... won't your my dear feathered friends...'
Like heck they will ... News flash, imagine it (sadly) 'Jumbo Downed by Brents...'
Ah yes, the advent of digital TV has saved my blood pressure hugely: I no longer shout at the TV when the local news comes on. Local, did I hear you say, well LONDON, and I don't live in London, have no affinity to London, yet I've watched, steamed at, shouted at London news for many years, well, actually I used to switch off ... now I'm switched on - to BBC East - and found that that place people love to patronise as an offshoot of the east end and white stiletto’s has a different and far more interesting reality (well, we who live here knew that...). The programme actually has items that are covered by Look East reporters. And to them I say thank you! Well I know you've been doing it for years, but now those in the south of the eastern region can appreciate it too... Can't be bothered with the 'other channel': it doesn't cover the southern area for the weather... I was thinking of writing to them ... can't be bothered at the moment...
Ah well, I did have a wonderful sail ... time for thoughts to float around the mind. ‘Cor it was great.’
I received through the post recently from Tony Smith a copy of his book, Ready About on the Blackwater, describing the creeks and guts that can be sailed into on the river. Once read, I have promised a review...
Posted on 10 Feb 2012 by admin
Ditch-crawler's dinghy needs a make over...
My dear little tender, Twitch, incidentally named by my dear mate many moons ago while it was being constructed by Alan Staley at his Faversham Creek boat yard early in 1994, has had to make the journey by trailer to my land residence ... she needs a makeover.
A little attention to the gel coat on the outside is needed after 18 years of use. Concrete hards and hard pieces of angle iron on mooring fingers have left their marks and in places the outer coating has been cracked, splintered and gouged even. The original cream finish has faded immensely too. She looks tired...
'Slap a bit of filler around and buff it down and coat with 2-pot...' someone has said to me. I think she'll get a little more attention than that: she certainly deserves it.
I've got as far as stripping out all the paraphernalia that she is usually encumbered with. Mast and spars have been slung from the workshop roof. The work shop is a garage in name but it's locked away beyond a narrow way ... even narrower since we've had a good set of steps to our doors constructed. One of those Swatch machines would fit... The place hasn't any heating ... so that has to be my first job - buy a heater and get some warmth to work in... The garden thermometer is reading around zero and a biting north-easterly has penetrated from the estuary too. Work has stalled.
Down at the yard today I had commiserated with a fellow member who has been having a few wee problems removing a keel bolt from his Finesse 24. He is fitting a new engine, well a recon 2GM actually, in place of an old 1GM. With the engine out the opportunity to do the two bolts sitting beneath was undertaken. I did mine some 7 or 8 years ago. One came out alright ... the other has caused some bother... Anyway, while a group of us were thawing out with hot tea: the north easterly was blowing straight off the estuary, the subject of marinas came up. Someone was complaining bitterly at the cost of a stay booked for the coming summer was costing ... even one night was, 'dot dot dot...'
I mentioned staying a night, getting a shower, doing the laundry and a meal ashore perhaps then skedaddle ... there are moorings close by this place; anchorages too, 'why not use those and use the dinghy.'
Yeh, you've got it, stupid me, I'm one of the few in my club who takes a proper dinghy when cruising... Some haven't even got one of those squidgy things that have to be filled with air!
And to remind me of tender joys - the subject of a recent Anglia Afloat article - I found this picture lurking in my files... I was creeping into Kirton Creek towards the end of the day one evening last summer ... with a few gentle zephyrs.
Ah well, my Twitch will soon be back!
A little attention to the gel coat on the outside is needed after 18 years of use. Concrete hards and hard pieces of angle iron on mooring fingers have left their marks and in places the outer coating has been cracked, splintered and gouged even. The original cream finish has faded immensely too. She looks tired...
'Slap a bit of filler around and buff it down and coat with 2-pot...' someone has said to me. I think she'll get a little more attention than that: she certainly deserves it.
I've got as far as stripping out all the paraphernalia that she is usually encumbered with. Mast and spars have been slung from the workshop roof. The work shop is a garage in name but it's locked away beyond a narrow way ... even narrower since we've had a good set of steps to our doors constructed. One of those Swatch machines would fit... The place hasn't any heating ... so that has to be my first job - buy a heater and get some warmth to work in... The garden thermometer is reading around zero and a biting north-easterly has penetrated from the estuary too. Work has stalled.
Down at the yard today I had commiserated with a fellow member who has been having a few wee problems removing a keel bolt from his Finesse 24. He is fitting a new engine, well a recon 2GM actually, in place of an old 1GM. With the engine out the opportunity to do the two bolts sitting beneath was undertaken. I did mine some 7 or 8 years ago. One came out alright ... the other has caused some bother... Anyway, while a group of us were thawing out with hot tea: the north easterly was blowing straight off the estuary, the subject of marinas came up. Someone was complaining bitterly at the cost of a stay booked for the coming summer was costing ... even one night was, 'dot dot dot...'
I mentioned staying a night, getting a shower, doing the laundry and a meal ashore perhaps then skedaddle ... there are moorings close by this place; anchorages too, 'why not use those and use the dinghy.'
Yeh, you've got it, stupid me, I'm one of the few in my club who takes a proper dinghy when cruising... Some haven't even got one of those squidgy things that have to be filled with air!
And to remind me of tender joys - the subject of a recent Anglia Afloat article - I found this picture lurking in my files... I was creeping into Kirton Creek towards the end of the day one evening last summer ... with a few gentle zephyrs.
Ah well, my Twitch will soon be back!
Posted on 01 Feb 2012 by admin
Ditch-crawler's sunset parade
Well, this last week an old sailor now living and based on Norfolk's fabulous broads contacted me. He had sailed with an uncle at the end of the 1940s on the River Medway, returning later in the 1950s with his own little boat. Life took him away to an inland location for too many years (he said) but at 89 he still cruises the broads...
It transpired that the chap sailed from Shoregate Dock. It's just round the sea wall at Ham Green (Upchurch) on the banks of the River Medway in Kent from where I lived on the sailing barge May Flower - our berth from 1968 to 1978 was at Callows Wharf (Ham Green). He also camped close by along Bayford Marsh adjacent to Half Acre Creek...
It’s weird, but he would have been an old hand on the river when I was a lad in the 1950s and 60s and probably saw my sailing home out on the water. As time has gone on some interesting contacts have been made - another was from a chap at a self-help club on the Firth of Forth in Fife. He too had enjoyed time on 'my' Medway!
Crumbs, I had some grand sailing last week too. As they say, it can't be all work ... 'and what do you know of that' my closest will mutter upon reading this... So, after the part time work I do (adult ed classes) finished, I shot to the boat twice, and again on Friday afternoon, and had three splendid winter wonderland sails. Cold, crisp and even... No snow though.
The last was the really stupendous one. I left as soon as the boat was afloat and in a gentle breeze crept out of the creek. The breeze puffed harder at times, so making short and long legs I made it up to the Benfleet's clubhouse where I turned for home.
On the way up the sky was a translucent to deep blue and this, as the sun dropped changed, bit by bit, until it had yellowed with a bright orange glow from the setting sun.
Rounding up to drop the mainsail
As I neared the creek, I rounded up to drop the main and put its lashings on, then, as the sun dropped to the island's ragged skyline of house roofs, I slowly made over the ebbing tide.
Sailing into the creek
It was dusk... The breeze dropped away too, but it held long enough for me to sail into my berth... Bliss!
A magic moment in amongst the moorings
It transpired that the chap sailed from Shoregate Dock. It's just round the sea wall at Ham Green (Upchurch) on the banks of the River Medway in Kent from where I lived on the sailing barge May Flower - our berth from 1968 to 1978 was at Callows Wharf (Ham Green). He also camped close by along Bayford Marsh adjacent to Half Acre Creek...
It’s weird, but he would have been an old hand on the river when I was a lad in the 1950s and 60s and probably saw my sailing home out on the water. As time has gone on some interesting contacts have been made - another was from a chap at a self-help club on the Firth of Forth in Fife. He too had enjoyed time on 'my' Medway!
Crumbs, I had some grand sailing last week too. As they say, it can't be all work ... 'and what do you know of that' my closest will mutter upon reading this... So, after the part time work I do (adult ed classes) finished, I shot to the boat twice, and again on Friday afternoon, and had three splendid winter wonderland sails. Cold, crisp and even... No snow though.
The last was the really stupendous one. I left as soon as the boat was afloat and in a gentle breeze crept out of the creek. The breeze puffed harder at times, so making short and long legs I made it up to the Benfleet's clubhouse where I turned for home.
On the way up the sky was a translucent to deep blue and this, as the sun dropped changed, bit by bit, until it had yellowed with a bright orange glow from the setting sun.
Rounding up to drop the mainsail
As I neared the creek, I rounded up to drop the main and put its lashings on, then, as the sun dropped to the island's ragged skyline of house roofs, I slowly made over the ebbing tide.
Sailing into the creek
It was dusk... The breeze dropped away too, but it held long enough for me to sail into my berth... Bliss!
A magic moment in amongst the moorings
Posted on 17 Jan 2012 by admin
Ditch-crawler's odds and sods
I've been perusing the new web site for the Faversham Creek Trust. It is an interesting development in that their aim is to train, utilise and release to the society in general trained and competent skilled shipwrights to continue the heritage of our coast. It is expected that many trainees would find work around the Thames estuary.
A building, the Purifier Building, built in Victorian times, has been acquired. A work force has already cleaned it out of debris. It is to be transformed into workshops and classrooms. Other activities and a coffee shop will follow.
The side of the Purifier building looking into Pent Basin from bridge over one of the creek's feeds in 2008.
The project is all part of a regeneration programme, a rescue plan, for the upper end of Faversham's creek: the creek created Faversham. The plan is to; restore the lock gates and sluice, dredge; rejuvenate the dock walls and associated areas which are incorporated in the plan. It sounds and looks exciting, and for one who has 'abused' in a literary sense the burghers of such towns, I applaud the efforts of this volunteer organisation. I shall visit in the summer.
The Pent with lock and bridge in distance photographed in 2008.
Plans are for the site to be used for traditional craft work, barges, smacks and yachts... The trust can be found at: www.favershamcreektrust.com
Some craft types that would fit the bill...
I forgot to mention, or did I? Hell, who cares: I'm correcting my possible lapse. An interesting picture site can be found at: www.garyvaughnpostcards.co.uk
Gary has referenced my site as a link. He has been exceedingly good to me with the supply of several old postcard copies for book uses...
An article of mine came out in Anglia Afloat this last issue, Jan/Feb 2012. The magazine can be ordered at news agents, but is a worthwhile east coast magazine - it covers the whole of the Anglia region. A whole year is actually very cheap in comparison to other boating mags - classy too! They can be found at: www.angliaafloat.com
My article, about cruising with a proper dinghy, has already caused me to receive emails offering congratulating on the subject matter (and more besides). The article had picked up on some stuff I was yabbering about some months ago... It won't, however, be on the magazine's site for awhile though - others can be found!
Yesterday I took my boating pal from the island's (Canvey Island) other club out for a sail. We had a stomping tack up to that club's moorings before running out again as we enjoyed the birdlife (feathered variety) and our picnic boxes... The poor chap hadn't been afloat since a sail on Whimbrel last November - I'd have crumbled long before, in fact my mate oft tells me to go sailing as it 'clears your tetchiness' she says, charming!
The chap's boat is ashore for the winter and not due back in until late April or early May, but that regime is typical for many owners.
Leaving my little sloop after putting her to bed, temporarily, I hope, we headed home, striding with a fresh glow inside and outwardly beaming with big broad grins, two little imps!
A building, the Purifier Building, built in Victorian times, has been acquired. A work force has already cleaned it out of debris. It is to be transformed into workshops and classrooms. Other activities and a coffee shop will follow.
The side of the Purifier building looking into Pent Basin from bridge over one of the creek's feeds in 2008.
The project is all part of a regeneration programme, a rescue plan, for the upper end of Faversham's creek: the creek created Faversham. The plan is to; restore the lock gates and sluice, dredge; rejuvenate the dock walls and associated areas which are incorporated in the plan. It sounds and looks exciting, and for one who has 'abused' in a literary sense the burghers of such towns, I applaud the efforts of this volunteer organisation. I shall visit in the summer.
The Pent with lock and bridge in distance photographed in 2008.
Plans are for the site to be used for traditional craft work, barges, smacks and yachts... The trust can be found at: www.favershamcreektrust.com
Some craft types that would fit the bill...
I forgot to mention, or did I? Hell, who cares: I'm correcting my possible lapse. An interesting picture site can be found at: www.garyvaughnpostcards.co.uk
Gary has referenced my site as a link. He has been exceedingly good to me with the supply of several old postcard copies for book uses...
An article of mine came out in Anglia Afloat this last issue, Jan/Feb 2012. The magazine can be ordered at news agents, but is a worthwhile east coast magazine - it covers the whole of the Anglia region. A whole year is actually very cheap in comparison to other boating mags - classy too! They can be found at: www.angliaafloat.com
My article, about cruising with a proper dinghy, has already caused me to receive emails offering congratulating on the subject matter (and more besides). The article had picked up on some stuff I was yabbering about some months ago... It won't, however, be on the magazine's site for awhile though - others can be found!
Yesterday I took my boating pal from the island's (Canvey Island) other club out for a sail. We had a stomping tack up to that club's moorings before running out again as we enjoyed the birdlife (feathered variety) and our picnic boxes... The poor chap hadn't been afloat since a sail on Whimbrel last November - I'd have crumbled long before, in fact my mate oft tells me to go sailing as it 'clears your tetchiness' she says, charming!
The chap's boat is ashore for the winter and not due back in until late April or early May, but that regime is typical for many owners.
Leaving my little sloop after putting her to bed, temporarily, I hope, we headed home, striding with a fresh glow inside and outwardly beaming with big broad grins, two little imps!
Posted on 10 Jan 2012 by admin
Beagle thoughts
I had a cracking sail yesterday. It wasn't planned: it was supposed to have been 'breezy' but hey, reaching the boat and thinking, 'what the heck' I slipped a reef in the mainsail and away we went. On the way out a seal popped his head up for a look at me as I cleared the outer moorings. I got the distinct impression I was disturbing his feeding - a few fish got away, I'm sure!
I tacked all the way up to 'The Benfleet's' clubhouse before running back out. The wind was a wee bit shifty under the hills but I was kept warmed by the constant activity of short tacking. A couple were walking their dog and we kept pace with one another virtually the length of the wall from Two Tree Island.
There were a profusion of walkers, many with dogs; one lady had around four of them. None were beagles though. Why beagles? Well, I'd posted an email to the Beagle Trust on Friday: they're currently looking for a likely place to berth a replica vessel when it is built and are asking for comment. I suggested Chatham Docks: it would be an admirable place for the project to base itself. The east basin is undergoing a design makeover to mix waterfront properties with a working dock... Also, which to me is of importance, Darwin's famous book about evolution was written not a million miles away in the west of the county (Now, I believe, part of Greater London - shamefully).
If you haven't been to Darwin's house, and the garden that cemented his ideas, then go! A walk round the sea wall around Paglesham is of note too: here, under the saltings, the original Beagle is said to rest. Her last days were spent in Essex's River Roach as a guard ship for Revenue Officers and their families.
The trust can be found at www.hmsbeagleproject.org
Anyway, I was sailing down the creek thinking of all of this as I chomped the last of my home made mince pies, luxuriating the taste of the additional brandy that had been stirred in a few weeks previous...
Clearing Two Tree Island I surged across to Leigh and ran down the shore from the cockle sheds to 'The Essex' before heading out towards the Thames proper. A dinghy was having problems staying up, but a safety boat was in attendance... On the way a squall came skittering across the water, the boat leant until her deck was awash. An eased main sorted that as I pelted out past Canvey's marsh point before turning in towards my own club, thus 'visiting' four yacht/sailing clubs on the tide - the Belton Way Boat Club too, if one wanted to be pedantic!
Thoughts of getting back onto my mooring ... tide running out ... west to northwest wind blowing me off the berth ... got to stop, grab line and...
It was an hour and a half after high water by the time I dumped the sails and pottered in slowly under power, wasting time. Shooting into my berth by then was easy: the boat just slotted into her hole and stayed put. It was a grand sail!
It was a reduced canvas grand sailing day like this...
I tacked all the way up to 'The Benfleet's' clubhouse before running back out. The wind was a wee bit shifty under the hills but I was kept warmed by the constant activity of short tacking. A couple were walking their dog and we kept pace with one another virtually the length of the wall from Two Tree Island.
There were a profusion of walkers, many with dogs; one lady had around four of them. None were beagles though. Why beagles? Well, I'd posted an email to the Beagle Trust on Friday: they're currently looking for a likely place to berth a replica vessel when it is built and are asking for comment. I suggested Chatham Docks: it would be an admirable place for the project to base itself. The east basin is undergoing a design makeover to mix waterfront properties with a working dock... Also, which to me is of importance, Darwin's famous book about evolution was written not a million miles away in the west of the county (Now, I believe, part of Greater London - shamefully).
If you haven't been to Darwin's house, and the garden that cemented his ideas, then go! A walk round the sea wall around Paglesham is of note too: here, under the saltings, the original Beagle is said to rest. Her last days were spent in Essex's River Roach as a guard ship for Revenue Officers and their families.
The trust can be found at www.hmsbeagleproject.org
Anyway, I was sailing down the creek thinking of all of this as I chomped the last of my home made mince pies, luxuriating the taste of the additional brandy that had been stirred in a few weeks previous...
Clearing Two Tree Island I surged across to Leigh and ran down the shore from the cockle sheds to 'The Essex' before heading out towards the Thames proper. A dinghy was having problems staying up, but a safety boat was in attendance... On the way a squall came skittering across the water, the boat leant until her deck was awash. An eased main sorted that as I pelted out past Canvey's marsh point before turning in towards my own club, thus 'visiting' four yacht/sailing clubs on the tide - the Belton Way Boat Club too, if one wanted to be pedantic!
Thoughts of getting back onto my mooring ... tide running out ... west to northwest wind blowing me off the berth ... got to stop, grab line and...
It was an hour and a half after high water by the time I dumped the sails and pottered in slowly under power, wasting time. Shooting into my berth by then was easy: the boat just slotted into her hole and stayed put. It was a grand sail!
It was a reduced canvas grand sailing day like this...
Posted on 08 Jan 2012 by admin
Ditch-crawler gets afloat over Christmas period...
Firstly, my apologies to you all for disappearing from the ether ... my hosting failed for some unexplained reason as I was going to add some words before Christmas Day, but we're back on line!
It has been one of those indifferent periods over the festive season somewhat curtailing my planned jaunts out on the water. I did get away from the shore on several occasions though, which wasn't so bad.
I did miss one God given tide: although the forecast had been pretty horrible, with a little too much wind and showers, the day turned into one of those that would have been one to remember had I got out. It was Christmas Eve. We'd had a very late breakfast and by the time I got organised I was late for the tide... The mate and me had nice coffee out though and it's good to spend quality time with loved ones ... isn't it?
During one of my jaunts I actually left the mate tucked beneath the covers and drove to the boat at 0730 in the morning. Mad? Possibly, but it was well worth it. By the time I reached my humble clinker sloop the tide was making nicely up the rudder. The sails were readied in a well practised fashion and as the kettle whistled Whimbrel was about to pick up. The sun was lifting over the horizon beyond the island's marsh point.
A burst astern from my new diesel - it’s now done 5 hours since being fitted in October - and I was in the creeks stream... Sails were hoisted in a trice, well the mainsail: the jib was already up! The boat quickly broke the back of the incoming flood, gently at first, and then with more passion as the sails went to work. She soon steadied to a comfortable pace. A motor boat was seen coming in, slowly, 'too far over' I'd thought, and was correct because she'd gone aground on the hummock in that has built up down the centre/north of the channel.
Clearing the outer mooring run I caught my first full glimpse of the sky. It was stupendous and I thought how the mate would have loved it too. The sun had cleared the horizon and I stood for a few moments gazing in awe.
The sun rises beneath Whimbrel’s mainsail...
Where to I thought as without hesitation I'd put the helm over to trundle up to the other island yacht club by the bridge to Benfleet. It was a beat at times, well mostly actually, all the way up to the 'Benfleet's' clubhouse where I turned tail and ran back out again.
On the way up, passing the marshes of Two Tree Island and Marks Marsh, several flights of avocet had been seen as well as many marauding brent geese who had clearly been busy on the fields of the Salvation Army Farm. A few little grebes were spotted on the way back, diving over the shallows off Canvey's marsh.
It was a glorious sail. By the time most people (on holiday) would be thinking of breakfast, I was into another mince pie and coffee...
A couple of days after Boxing Day the mate came out with me for her single sail of the festive season ... it was a little grey above. A drizzle patch hit as we were thinking of dropping sail, hastening the operation. By the time we were back inside the creek the breeze had died and the sun was trying to make an appearance. On the way home it rained ... 'well timed' we had both thought!
Whimbrel's festive bonnet...
It has been one of those indifferent periods over the festive season somewhat curtailing my planned jaunts out on the water. I did get away from the shore on several occasions though, which wasn't so bad.
I did miss one God given tide: although the forecast had been pretty horrible, with a little too much wind and showers, the day turned into one of those that would have been one to remember had I got out. It was Christmas Eve. We'd had a very late breakfast and by the time I got organised I was late for the tide... The mate and me had nice coffee out though and it's good to spend quality time with loved ones ... isn't it?
During one of my jaunts I actually left the mate tucked beneath the covers and drove to the boat at 0730 in the morning. Mad? Possibly, but it was well worth it. By the time I reached my humble clinker sloop the tide was making nicely up the rudder. The sails were readied in a well practised fashion and as the kettle whistled Whimbrel was about to pick up. The sun was lifting over the horizon beyond the island's marsh point.
A burst astern from my new diesel - it’s now done 5 hours since being fitted in October - and I was in the creeks stream... Sails were hoisted in a trice, well the mainsail: the jib was already up! The boat quickly broke the back of the incoming flood, gently at first, and then with more passion as the sails went to work. She soon steadied to a comfortable pace. A motor boat was seen coming in, slowly, 'too far over' I'd thought, and was correct because she'd gone aground on the hummock in that has built up down the centre/north of the channel.
Clearing the outer mooring run I caught my first full glimpse of the sky. It was stupendous and I thought how the mate would have loved it too. The sun had cleared the horizon and I stood for a few moments gazing in awe.
The sun rises beneath Whimbrel’s mainsail...
Where to I thought as without hesitation I'd put the helm over to trundle up to the other island yacht club by the bridge to Benfleet. It was a beat at times, well mostly actually, all the way up to the 'Benfleet's' clubhouse where I turned tail and ran back out again.
On the way up, passing the marshes of Two Tree Island and Marks Marsh, several flights of avocet had been seen as well as many marauding brent geese who had clearly been busy on the fields of the Salvation Army Farm. A few little grebes were spotted on the way back, diving over the shallows off Canvey's marsh.
It was a glorious sail. By the time most people (on holiday) would be thinking of breakfast, I was into another mince pie and coffee...
A couple of days after Boxing Day the mate came out with me for her single sail of the festive season ... it was a little grey above. A drizzle patch hit as we were thinking of dropping sail, hastening the operation. By the time we were back inside the creek the breeze had died and the sun was trying to make an appearance. On the way home it rained ... 'well timed' we had both thought!
Whimbrel's festive bonnet...
Posted on 04 Jan 2012 by admin
With the 'boy' and Santa's express...
I had gone to the creek to meet the boy, well, he's my boy, and the mate's too, but getting on in years a little now to be called the boy, but nothing changes and I expect I'm 'a boy' in my mum's eyes: I certainly am in the illustrious mate's sparklers! Anyway, the boy was meeting me to help finish some steps to a new section of jetty to which Whimbrel is moored.
The weather forecast was very good. Too good to leave the boat twitching and tugging at her mooring lines. We'd had a week of winds with white spume dancing down the Thames, so I had a further objective for the morning (The mate was having coffee with a friend in Southend ... and doing some quiet shopping...) The boy arrived as I was just finishing getting the boat ready for a sail ... before he got a word in I'd said, 'Why don't you come ... we can do the steps afterwards...'
The good lad welcomed the opportunity and shortly afterwards we were sailing out of the creek with the wind behind us. It was glorious with an exceptionally blue sky with a full winter sun reflecting around us. I thought of the camera sitting in the study at home - good place!
The boy had stolen the helm and I was not to get it back even when he'd taken a call from the captain of some container ship heading into some port ... wanting some info! 'Yes Sir...' he kept saying, all polite and businesslike... as I whispered watch the gybe ... and port a bit or whatever. Anyway, leaving the creek the boy spotted plumes of smoke issuing from a rapidly moving unseen object racing along under Hadleigh's downs. It was a steam train ... 'It's Santa's express...' the boy chuckled!
Now, at that point, I really did wish that I had that camera sitting on top of the office printer... It took me back to the early 1960s when the May Flower was sailed over from Kent and we spent a couple of weeks sitting off Leigh (Father used to travel to town by train to his office...) during the summer holidays. In those days the old London, Tilbury and Southend trains were still pulled by aging, wheezing steam engines: not the slick operating beauties seen today for today's engines are lavishly and lovingly pandered too! What a missed opportunity, a steam train whooshing along under the distant sea wall seen under Whimbrel's boom...
The Boy when a little yonger and captain of his own ship.
Reaching Leigh we cruised down abreast of the yacht club dinghy racks where many a little boat was being prepared for the water. Some were out. One was the doughty owner of Nancy Grey, the little barge yacht, which is based at Leigh-on-Sea. She lays up by the Belton Way Boat Club. The Nancy Grey's owner was sailing a charmingly sweet little dinghy which had a lightning flash shape in its sail (unknown class). There are, apparently around five of these little boats based at the Leigh-on-Sea SC now... The chap came towards us we had a natter. He'd bought the craft for two hundred and thirty pounds on a web site. It was giving him pleasure and it cost a pittance.
It reminded me of a question posed to me on BBC Suffolk last week: I was asked how much it costs to get on the water ... because the interviewer said, 'It's expensive hobby isn't it...?' I gave my views sucinctly: if a virgin boater falls into the sticky clutches of marketing men (or women) then, yes, it is likely to be jolly expensive.
I've been reading several articles in Anglia Afloat of late and the price of boats being branded as suitable for people to get started with or are suitable for young families is, quite frankly, frightening. There are a host of craft available second hand, third, fourth and more, which make eminently suitable 'first' buy boats and if the family don't like it they haven't an expensive millstone around their necks in a highly priced marina berth just sitting there as a comfortable base for the sea's tenacious barnacles and fauna...
We've all seen them, marina's that is, stuffed with craft that sit there, week after week, between lift in and lift out. There are a few around my own club like that and the boy made a comment about all the boats still in the water, yet, on such a fine day, nobody else was out!
Well, we sailed down to The Crowstone and out past the West Leigh Middle and deciding that the steps still needed to be completed on the jetty ... we ultimately headed into the creek again. We had two hours out. It was grand. The Brents were enjoying it out there too ... other visitors abounded and the knot didn't dissapoint: they swooped in tortuous twists before settling once more, however briefly. The boy was happy (he'd dipped the decks beneath a few times, texting his mum to tell her too...), I was positively beaming. He said he'd come on my planned Christmas morning sail if it was nice, Ah!
The weather forecast was very good. Too good to leave the boat twitching and tugging at her mooring lines. We'd had a week of winds with white spume dancing down the Thames, so I had a further objective for the morning (The mate was having coffee with a friend in Southend ... and doing some quiet shopping...) The boy arrived as I was just finishing getting the boat ready for a sail ... before he got a word in I'd said, 'Why don't you come ... we can do the steps afterwards...'
The good lad welcomed the opportunity and shortly afterwards we were sailing out of the creek with the wind behind us. It was glorious with an exceptionally blue sky with a full winter sun reflecting around us. I thought of the camera sitting in the study at home - good place!
The boy had stolen the helm and I was not to get it back even when he'd taken a call from the captain of some container ship heading into some port ... wanting some info! 'Yes Sir...' he kept saying, all polite and businesslike... as I whispered watch the gybe ... and port a bit or whatever. Anyway, leaving the creek the boy spotted plumes of smoke issuing from a rapidly moving unseen object racing along under Hadleigh's downs. It was a steam train ... 'It's Santa's express...' the boy chuckled!
Now, at that point, I really did wish that I had that camera sitting on top of the office printer... It took me back to the early 1960s when the May Flower was sailed over from Kent and we spent a couple of weeks sitting off Leigh (Father used to travel to town by train to his office...) during the summer holidays. In those days the old London, Tilbury and Southend trains were still pulled by aging, wheezing steam engines: not the slick operating beauties seen today for today's engines are lavishly and lovingly pandered too! What a missed opportunity, a steam train whooshing along under the distant sea wall seen under Whimbrel's boom...
The Boy when a little yonger and captain of his own ship.
Reaching Leigh we cruised down abreast of the yacht club dinghy racks where many a little boat was being prepared for the water. Some were out. One was the doughty owner of Nancy Grey, the little barge yacht, which is based at Leigh-on-Sea. She lays up by the Belton Way Boat Club. The Nancy Grey's owner was sailing a charmingly sweet little dinghy which had a lightning flash shape in its sail (unknown class). There are, apparently around five of these little boats based at the Leigh-on-Sea SC now... The chap came towards us we had a natter. He'd bought the craft for two hundred and thirty pounds on a web site. It was giving him pleasure and it cost a pittance.
It reminded me of a question posed to me on BBC Suffolk last week: I was asked how much it costs to get on the water ... because the interviewer said, 'It's expensive hobby isn't it...?' I gave my views sucinctly: if a virgin boater falls into the sticky clutches of marketing men (or women) then, yes, it is likely to be jolly expensive.
I've been reading several articles in Anglia Afloat of late and the price of boats being branded as suitable for people to get started with or are suitable for young families is, quite frankly, frightening. There are a host of craft available second hand, third, fourth and more, which make eminently suitable 'first' buy boats and if the family don't like it they haven't an expensive millstone around their necks in a highly priced marina berth just sitting there as a comfortable base for the sea's tenacious barnacles and fauna...
We've all seen them, marina's that is, stuffed with craft that sit there, week after week, between lift in and lift out. There are a few around my own club like that and the boy made a comment about all the boats still in the water, yet, on such a fine day, nobody else was out!
Well, we sailed down to The Crowstone and out past the West Leigh Middle and deciding that the steps still needed to be completed on the jetty ... we ultimately headed into the creek again. We had two hours out. It was grand. The Brents were enjoying it out there too ... other visitors abounded and the knot didn't dissapoint: they swooped in tortuous twists before settling once more, however briefly. The boy was happy (he'd dipped the decks beneath a few times, texting his mum to tell her too...), I was positively beaming. He said he'd come on my planned Christmas morning sail if it was nice, Ah!
Posted on 11 Dec 2011 by admin
BBC Suffolk interview - Nick Ardley - Jottings of a Thames Estuary Ditch-crawler
Well this was another shot out of the blue: I haven't gained much in the way of credit beyond the Essex border, northwards, which is strange: a large chunk of the Suffolk coast sits in the greater Thames Estuary. I've tried to explain this to book shops in places such as Woodbridge for sometime now...
So, on Monday, I've to beetle up the A12 to that lovely town of Ipswich sitting at the top of the Orwell, or bottom of the Gipping depending on one's view point, and find my way to the studios of BBC Suffolk. I'm then to be cosetted on a comfy couch for an informal natter about books, the coast and me (I assume!) on the Lesley Dolphin afternoon show. The presenter is to be James Hazell that day: Lesley is off.
I'm told the interview runs between 3 p.m. and 3.30 p.m., so if you'd like to join me then I'd be absolutely delighted. I hope Lesley enjoys it too...
I'd better make sure I think of some nice things to say about Suffolk and not rabbit on about the Olympics coming to Constable Country, that's Essex of course, close to where the great artist painted his scene of the lower reach of the Thames looking past Hadleigh Castle... However, it's difficult not to think of many things: Suffolk's coast is a delightful place and I've only recently enjoyed, with the Mate, a break based in tranquil Orford, Oh boy, we enjoyed ourselves. It was strange visiting a place only previously entered through its salty doorstep.
We did the rounds to Walberswick, Southwold, Dunwich and Aldeburgh as well as few places inland too. While there we stopped somewhere near to Iken Cliff and went down a path for a walk along the shore. I'm planning to anchor in that spot some time in the future: it was so peaceful. The mate remarked about my tacking up towards Iken Church some years ago ... when she'd muttered, 'what's the use of engines if not used...' - Ha! (Told about in Mudlarking)
The sweet looking Blackthorn sitting amidst a serene scene beneath Iken Cliff, River Alde. Salt, marsh and mud ... fringes these tranquil and gentle hill sides round to the ancient church downstream. There the Dinah was seen tugging gently at her mooring buoy ... itching, perhaps, like I was to go down with the tide...
So, on Monday, I've to beetle up the A12 to that lovely town of Ipswich sitting at the top of the Orwell, or bottom of the Gipping depending on one's view point, and find my way to the studios of BBC Suffolk. I'm then to be cosetted on a comfy couch for an informal natter about books, the coast and me (I assume!) on the Lesley Dolphin afternoon show. The presenter is to be James Hazell that day: Lesley is off.
I'm told the interview runs between 3 p.m. and 3.30 p.m., so if you'd like to join me then I'd be absolutely delighted. I hope Lesley enjoys it too...
I'd better make sure I think of some nice things to say about Suffolk and not rabbit on about the Olympics coming to Constable Country, that's Essex of course, close to where the great artist painted his scene of the lower reach of the Thames looking past Hadleigh Castle... However, it's difficult not to think of many things: Suffolk's coast is a delightful place and I've only recently enjoyed, with the Mate, a break based in tranquil Orford, Oh boy, we enjoyed ourselves. It was strange visiting a place only previously entered through its salty doorstep.
We did the rounds to Walberswick, Southwold, Dunwich and Aldeburgh as well as few places inland too. While there we stopped somewhere near to Iken Cliff and went down a path for a walk along the shore. I'm planning to anchor in that spot some time in the future: it was so peaceful. The mate remarked about my tacking up towards Iken Church some years ago ... when she'd muttered, 'what's the use of engines if not used...' - Ha! (Told about in Mudlarking)
The sweet looking Blackthorn sitting amidst a serene scene beneath Iken Cliff, River Alde. Salt, marsh and mud ... fringes these tranquil and gentle hill sides round to the ancient church downstream. There the Dinah was seen tugging gently at her mooring buoy ... itching, perhaps, like I was to go down with the tide...
Posted on 30 Nov 2011 by admin
Kent Messenger visits Edith May for launch of 'The Jottings'.
This last Sunday the Kent Messenger sent a camera man to the Edith May to record the Kent launch of my latest book, The Jottings of a Thames Estuary Ditch-crawler. Nice chap too, chatty, loved the setting of the barge in the dock and he remembered me from a previous event at Baggins Books in Rochester a couple of years ago.
The sun came out after a wet blustery start to the day, but it had brightened as the tide made. It lit the setting of the barge in Lower Halstow's dock in a bright glow and its position next to the ancient village church was evocative: the sea reaches into that rural idyll ... it has that something special about it ... something few other places have...
The day went extremely well and many people flooded the saloon of the barge. Many of them stayed for refreshments or lunch in the cosy tea rooms laid out around the old hold. It all added to an ambiance, intimate and so right for the promotion of my estuary books.
We (that's the Mate and me) were treated royally by Geoff and Jane, from arrival to leaving. Coffee, hot chocolate, cakes, lunch and tea ... were dispensed with such warmth.
Before departing back to Essex I left a few signed books on the Edith May: I'm told some of those went before they closed up for the day... I'll have to get a few more copies to them, I realise!
Whilst aboard, I listened to so many people remarking about what a wonderful job has been done with the old barge. There were also exclamations of surprise about the old girl going off sailing in the summer... I grinned: that is the old girl's main role, surely!
I met the youngest daughter of the long time owners of the Sarah, a wooden Thames lighter. Their floating home was a companion vessel throughout my barging childhood (She is now hulked up Milton Creek). The lady (for that what she is now!) also lives close by and has had fairly regular contact with my mother. It was the lady's older siblings who were my particular buddies though. Strangely, three weeks ago I had contact from the daughter of one of these ... from the USA ... completely out of the blue. Wow!
Then, standing in front of me was a face, a face that recognised me and rang some bell inside my tangled memories ... there were two actually, a husband and wife who were trailing a daughter and two grandchildren... The couple were owners of the Oxygen, c1962 to mid 70s, and the first thing the chap said was, "You won't remember me ... I first saw you as a six year old with a paint brush ... on the barge in Whitewall Creek..."
As soon as the chap mentioned the Oxygen, I remembered visiting them when May Flower was anchored out off Harty during the late 1960s. It was after they'd moved to Oare. Their berth was east of the wreck of the wooden lighter, Bombay, seen on the starboard side going into Faversham Creek...
It went on like that: there was David and Dilys Renouf, of the Thames Barge organisation and more besides, who I have had contact with by email many times... There was a chap from Sheppey, David Holden, who is slowly 'recovering' from a rare leukaemia. He struck me as a special man and he's a local sailor from Queenborough who has sailed many miles offshore and round Britain. His love though clearly remains with the creeks and ditches of the Thames estuary. He told me that he is part of a group, a trust, fighting to take control of Queenborough Harbour ... more on that later.
What I was most gratified by, and humbled by too, was that a couple of visitors were looking to obtain the whole set so far... I'd run out of one book by then. Others wanted to make up there collections - I could only apologise...
My thanks go to you all ... I feel very humble indeed: I've only written about what I enjoy ... and I was thinking about all of this yesterday on a sail up Hadleigh Ray to the Benfleet YC and back home ... Brent geese lifted and dropped as I reached up past Two Tree Island under the downs ... Bliss.
Brents lifting off around me as I sailed below Hadleigh's downs with the Olympic bike course in the distance
The sun came out after a wet blustery start to the day, but it had brightened as the tide made. It lit the setting of the barge in Lower Halstow's dock in a bright glow and its position next to the ancient village church was evocative: the sea reaches into that rural idyll ... it has that something special about it ... something few other places have...
The day went extremely well and many people flooded the saloon of the barge. Many of them stayed for refreshments or lunch in the cosy tea rooms laid out around the old hold. It all added to an ambiance, intimate and so right for the promotion of my estuary books.
We (that's the Mate and me) were treated royally by Geoff and Jane, from arrival to leaving. Coffee, hot chocolate, cakes, lunch and tea ... were dispensed with such warmth.
Before departing back to Essex I left a few signed books on the Edith May: I'm told some of those went before they closed up for the day... I'll have to get a few more copies to them, I realise!
Whilst aboard, I listened to so many people remarking about what a wonderful job has been done with the old barge. There were also exclamations of surprise about the old girl going off sailing in the summer... I grinned: that is the old girl's main role, surely!
I met the youngest daughter of the long time owners of the Sarah, a wooden Thames lighter. Their floating home was a companion vessel throughout my barging childhood (She is now hulked up Milton Creek). The lady (for that what she is now!) also lives close by and has had fairly regular contact with my mother. It was the lady's older siblings who were my particular buddies though. Strangely, three weeks ago I had contact from the daughter of one of these ... from the USA ... completely out of the blue. Wow!
Then, standing in front of me was a face, a face that recognised me and rang some bell inside my tangled memories ... there were two actually, a husband and wife who were trailing a daughter and two grandchildren... The couple were owners of the Oxygen, c1962 to mid 70s, and the first thing the chap said was, "You won't remember me ... I first saw you as a six year old with a paint brush ... on the barge in Whitewall Creek..."
As soon as the chap mentioned the Oxygen, I remembered visiting them when May Flower was anchored out off Harty during the late 1960s. It was after they'd moved to Oare. Their berth was east of the wreck of the wooden lighter, Bombay, seen on the starboard side going into Faversham Creek...
It went on like that: there was David and Dilys Renouf, of the Thames Barge organisation and more besides, who I have had contact with by email many times... There was a chap from Sheppey, David Holden, who is slowly 'recovering' from a rare leukaemia. He struck me as a special man and he's a local sailor from Queenborough who has sailed many miles offshore and round Britain. His love though clearly remains with the creeks and ditches of the Thames estuary. He told me that he is part of a group, a trust, fighting to take control of Queenborough Harbour ... more on that later.
What I was most gratified by, and humbled by too, was that a couple of visitors were looking to obtain the whole set so far... I'd run out of one book by then. Others wanted to make up there collections - I could only apologise...
My thanks go to you all ... I feel very humble indeed: I've only written about what I enjoy ... and I was thinking about all of this yesterday on a sail up Hadleigh Ray to the Benfleet YC and back home ... Brent geese lifted and dropped as I reached up past Two Tree Island under the downs ... Bliss.
Brents lifting off around me as I sailed below Hadleigh's downs with the Olympic bike course in the distance
Posted on 29 Nov 2011 by admin
Nick Ardley - Jottings of a Thames Estuary Ditch-crawler - book signing
Nick will be aboard the Edith May in Lower Halstow's dock on Sunday 27th November to talk about his books. This will be from around about opening to a little before closing time.
Copies of all titles will be available.
Older titles are £16.99 and the latest retails at £17.99. These are all excelent value with in excess of 120 illustrations in each. Cash or cheque please.
There was a superb book launch hosted by The Book Inn, Leigh-on-Sea, last night (Thursday eve). It was enjoyed by some seventy people and the proprietor was extremely pleased. There was a smattering of current and past Finesse owners all keen to get hold of Alan's (Platt) story.
I look forward to seeing many of my Kent readers on the barge where the food is good and the service comes with huge smiles ... Use it for a day to stretch the legs round to Twinney, Callows or Shoregate with a dish of Edward's bargeman's stew followed up with Jane's luscious cake afterwards.
Copies of all titles will be available.
Older titles are £16.99 and the latest retails at £17.99. These are all excelent value with in excess of 120 illustrations in each. Cash or cheque please.
There was a superb book launch hosted by The Book Inn, Leigh-on-Sea, last night (Thursday eve). It was enjoyed by some seventy people and the proprietor was extremely pleased. There was a smattering of current and past Finesse owners all keen to get hold of Alan's (Platt) story.
I look forward to seeing many of my Kent readers on the barge where the food is good and the service comes with huge smiles ... Use it for a day to stretch the legs round to Twinney, Callows or Shoregate with a dish of Edward's bargeman's stew followed up with Jane's luscious cake afterwards.
Posted on 11 Nov 2011 by admin
The Edith May tea rooms
Well, I must say ... I had a gorgeous light lunch aboard a grand old Essex Girl based in Lower Halstow's old brick dock the other day (I was doing a shuttle run, collecting my mother for a weekend in Essex - ironically to participate in the last services in a 90 year old wooden army hut that has been in use as St Michael's church, in Daws Heath. We're getting a new Scandinavian style building soon...) I digress!
The Edith May in her winter wonderland
The grand old Essex Girl, of course, is the spritsail barge Edith May. She looked trim and proper. Masts were bare for the winter with wifts of smoke curling away from her chimney pipe ... Ah you could feel the warmth - there's lots of that: it not only comes from the fire and food, but the family themselves... Wow what a welcome you get!
The Edith May, after the removal of her sailing gear for winter overhaul sets a fresh course and sails on as a static tea room sat up on her blocks floating three or four tides each quarter. In this she proves to be something of a treat for locals, walkers and those who travel far to experience an experience of worth indeed.
Ambiance and good food dominate...
The cakes are sublime, the soups superb and the bargeman's stew is scrumptious, I'm told. The surroundings are like a floating cottage, full of maritime senuousness: the barge oozes spritsail sex appeal! The girls love her; men become childlike, pawing and patting as if meeting their first love; and kids look, agog, disbelieving of anything like this in their high tech multi-media lives.
Well, there we are: I enjoyed my lunch!
The Edith May in her winter wonderland
The grand old Essex Girl, of course, is the spritsail barge Edith May. She looked trim and proper. Masts were bare for the winter with wifts of smoke curling away from her chimney pipe ... Ah you could feel the warmth - there's lots of that: it not only comes from the fire and food, but the family themselves... Wow what a welcome you get!
The Edith May, after the removal of her sailing gear for winter overhaul sets a fresh course and sails on as a static tea room sat up on her blocks floating three or four tides each quarter. In this she proves to be something of a treat for locals, walkers and those who travel far to experience an experience of worth indeed.
Ambiance and good food dominate...
The cakes are sublime, the soups superb and the bargeman's stew is scrumptious, I'm told. The surroundings are like a floating cottage, full of maritime senuousness: the barge oozes spritsail sex appeal! The girls love her; men become childlike, pawing and patting as if meeting their first love; and kids look, agog, disbelieving of anything like this in their high tech multi-media lives.
Well, there we are: I enjoyed my lunch!
Posted on 07 Nov 2011 by admin
The Jottings of a Thames Estuary Ditch-crawler ... book launch
There is to be a book launch of my new book at The Book Inn, Leigh-on-Sea, Essex, on Thursday 10th November starting at 6.30pm.
Address: 49, Broadway West, SS9 2BX.
The shop is on the south side of the one way system leading to/from the Broadway. It is opposite the Library, the old red brick building, on the seaward side of the road.
Telephone Lara Wagstaff to register interest/place on 01702 716614. This helps with her planning.
Wine and nibbles are usually provided!
There is adequate parking on the roads around and is unrestricted after 6pm.
It would be great to see people during the evening.
Nick
Address: 49, Broadway West, SS9 2BX.
The shop is on the south side of the one way system leading to/from the Broadway. It is opposite the Library, the old red brick building, on the seaward side of the road.
Telephone Lara Wagstaff to register interest/place on 01702 716614. This helps with her planning.
Wine and nibbles are usually provided!
There is adequate parking on the roads around and is unrestricted after 6pm.
It would be great to see people during the evening.
Nick
Posted on 30 Oct 2011 by admin
The Jottings of a Thames Estuary Ditch-crawler
Well, it's being released this week, a Christmas book - thank you Campbell and Amberley Publishing.
I know some of you have been waiting for this for a little time: many keep asking, 'When's the next one ...?'
I certainly don't intend to let the series become something of a conveyor system: that wouldn't be good. One, I need a life! Two, it takes time and things need to be researched; and three, the anticipation, surely, heightens the taste buds. There are other issues too...
The book is described on my book page.
I have to say one thing, for some strange reason, the book feels like my first - if that's possible - for I have a heightened level of excitement building up. I always do, but as I say, this one feels different!
It has a slightly different structure, yet the seasons are followed as before. The main differences will be the inclusion of the history of Finesse Yachts, Alan's story, and a cruise in company with many of those that have gone before. Both are new explorations for me. There are fascinating stories about Northey Island and the sad demise of Milton Creek. There's more, much more, but that is for you to explore...
Enjoy.
Constructive feedback would be nice too!
I know some of you have been waiting for this for a little time: many keep asking, 'When's the next one ...?'
I certainly don't intend to let the series become something of a conveyor system: that wouldn't be good. One, I need a life! Two, it takes time and things need to be researched; and three, the anticipation, surely, heightens the taste buds. There are other issues too...
The book is described on my book page.
I have to say one thing, for some strange reason, the book feels like my first - if that's possible - for I have a heightened level of excitement building up. I always do, but as I say, this one feels different!
It has a slightly different structure, yet the seasons are followed as before. The main differences will be the inclusion of the history of Finesse Yachts, Alan's story, and a cruise in company with many of those that have gone before. Both are new explorations for me. There are fascinating stories about Northey Island and the sad demise of Milton Creek. There's more, much more, but that is for you to explore...
Enjoy.
Constructive feedback would be nice too!
Posted on 23 Oct 2011 by admin
A sublime night in Stangate Creek
What a night ... the moon rose over distant Queenborough into a star studded sky. The moon was orange, the colour of the sun that had set earlier. It was subliminal.
From the marshes a light, barely moving air wafted a heady scent from the saline washed marsh plants on the saltings of Greenborough Marsh.
Around the boat twinkling lamps from many anchored yachts swung laziliy as crews moved, unseen, about their craft. Many of those lights though were of the back garden blue-white variety - not easy to see. A few were clearly paraffin, like ours, with a deep orange glow.
Our riding light twinkled.
It must be said at least two craft failed to display any light... Daft, in the extreme: four craft came into the anchorage late, well after dark. Why are people so dammed daft, eh? I'd seen one set of navigation lights come along the tide edge, circle and drop anchor while I was enjoying a laced coffee. She was nicely placed. The others had run in astern of her, in a line, and were seen in the morning, down the west side running towards the entrance to Sharfleet.
We'd had a gorgeous and tranquil sail over on Saturday afternoon fetching across the Thames and into the Medway with an easterly breeze, insufficient to create that famous lower reach lop. The breeze held until we reached Sharfleet, where it turned southerly and light. So, the new engine burst into life and we'd puttered slowly to our chosen spot.
A large yacht from New York state was anchored in the line we joined and, embarassingly, his camera was seen in action as we approached ... the next morning we enjoyed a few pleasantries as we slowly sailed past again. One of my own club were in the creek too - it's a rare sight to see two 'Island' boats in that anchorage together ... so while I was sailing in the dinghy (or trying to) I popped over for a natter - a beer ensued - before heading back to base.
Ah, but that night, it was tremendous. It wasn't that 'one in a million' we've seen from time to time, but for mid October - truly fantastic. We both felt a satisfied glow as the doors were shut and hatch slid over for the night...
Leaving quietly...
Leaving in the morning I counted around twenty-five craft spread around. Where were all the rest? Well, perhaps not all!
From the marshes a light, barely moving air wafted a heady scent from the saline washed marsh plants on the saltings of Greenborough Marsh.
Around the boat twinkling lamps from many anchored yachts swung laziliy as crews moved, unseen, about their craft. Many of those lights though were of the back garden blue-white variety - not easy to see. A few were clearly paraffin, like ours, with a deep orange glow.
Our riding light twinkled.
It must be said at least two craft failed to display any light... Daft, in the extreme: four craft came into the anchorage late, well after dark. Why are people so dammed daft, eh? I'd seen one set of navigation lights come along the tide edge, circle and drop anchor while I was enjoying a laced coffee. She was nicely placed. The others had run in astern of her, in a line, and were seen in the morning, down the west side running towards the entrance to Sharfleet.
We'd had a gorgeous and tranquil sail over on Saturday afternoon fetching across the Thames and into the Medway with an easterly breeze, insufficient to create that famous lower reach lop. The breeze held until we reached Sharfleet, where it turned southerly and light. So, the new engine burst into life and we'd puttered slowly to our chosen spot.
A large yacht from New York state was anchored in the line we joined and, embarassingly, his camera was seen in action as we approached ... the next morning we enjoyed a few pleasantries as we slowly sailed past again. One of my own club were in the creek too - it's a rare sight to see two 'Island' boats in that anchorage together ... so while I was sailing in the dinghy (or trying to) I popped over for a natter - a beer ensued - before heading back to base.
Ah, but that night, it was tremendous. It wasn't that 'one in a million' we've seen from time to time, but for mid October - truly fantastic. We both felt a satisfied glow as the doors were shut and hatch slid over for the night...
Leaving quietly...
Leaving in the morning I counted around twenty-five craft spread around. Where were all the rest? Well, perhaps not all!
Posted on 17 Oct 2011 by admin
Nick's new Yanmar engine from French Marine
During the summer a previous problem reared its head again - slippage within our gearbox/clutch unit made manoeuvring difficult into marina berths and when we went up to St Katharine Dock. This was especially so for the mate ...
The problem had been looked at some years ago and after adjustments it had been 'good' for a while. We were told then that it would probably rear its head again ... it had been playing up for a period of time, but, alas, it got rapidly worse.
French Marine Motors gave a price for renewal of gear unit and when I asked for a ball park on overhaul of the 28 year old engine and descaling of seawater passages (direct cooled unit) the numbers were rapidly climbing sky-wards.
The mate thought about a new engine, I sucked in through my teeth, long and hard, but 'French' had Yanmar 2YM15s on offer. The deal was soon struck ...
So, dashing to the creek from work on a glorious day for sailing, a Tuesday, the boat was lifted out. The engine came out on Wednesday, I cleaned bilges
(only a modicum of crud: I clean regularly) and applied primer touch up as required. Painting, bilge red, the next day.
The engine bay ready to receive the new engine.
Three days after lift out the new engine arrived - that was Friday. Ably helped by the 'old' ships boy (Son), it was soon in. After a hiccup with the old holding down bolts the engine was roughly aligned. By Saturday lunch time it was all aligned and buttoned up ... leaving just the exhaust and pipe clipping ... That was Monday's project: it required complete renewal.
By Tuesday it ran...
I'd had to fit an up-sized hull fitting and 'bin' my bronze filter, replacing it with a plastic one - I'm not a lover of plastic on boats, however it does the job and looks quite snazzy with all new see though hoses, and is easy to get to where I've mounted it!
The new engine fitted.
Some little jobs were done around the hull and the old girl slid happily back into the water yesterday (Saturday). The old girl had dried a little: she was out during the late September and early October heatwave with a maximum of 29.9 deg up the road from us ... it had been dry too, although it made the job pleasant and there had been no risk of getting held up if nothing else.
Heading for the water. Club house beyond tractor unit with the Thames beyond that. Astern, unseen, is the club's slipway ... to paradise.
On Sunday's tide the mate had a run through the new engine: her mind was absent except for the starting and stopping bit ... 'It's all I need to know,' she said!
It was funny: I heard the mate having a conversation as she stepped aboard the boat ... with the boat that is. She patted her, affectionately, reassuring her, I think... Before lift out the mate had told me to tell the boat what was happening ... Hmm!
I smiled quietly - both times!
The problem had been looked at some years ago and after adjustments it had been 'good' for a while. We were told then that it would probably rear its head again ... it had been playing up for a period of time, but, alas, it got rapidly worse.
French Marine Motors gave a price for renewal of gear unit and when I asked for a ball park on overhaul of the 28 year old engine and descaling of seawater passages (direct cooled unit) the numbers were rapidly climbing sky-wards.
The mate thought about a new engine, I sucked in through my teeth, long and hard, but 'French' had Yanmar 2YM15s on offer. The deal was soon struck ...
So, dashing to the creek from work on a glorious day for sailing, a Tuesday, the boat was lifted out. The engine came out on Wednesday, I cleaned bilges
(only a modicum of crud: I clean regularly) and applied primer touch up as required. Painting, bilge red, the next day.
The engine bay ready to receive the new engine.
Three days after lift out the new engine arrived - that was Friday. Ably helped by the 'old' ships boy (Son), it was soon in. After a hiccup with the old holding down bolts the engine was roughly aligned. By Saturday lunch time it was all aligned and buttoned up ... leaving just the exhaust and pipe clipping ... That was Monday's project: it required complete renewal.
By Tuesday it ran...
I'd had to fit an up-sized hull fitting and 'bin' my bronze filter, replacing it with a plastic one - I'm not a lover of plastic on boats, however it does the job and looks quite snazzy with all new see though hoses, and is easy to get to where I've mounted it!
The new engine fitted.
Some little jobs were done around the hull and the old girl slid happily back into the water yesterday (Saturday). The old girl had dried a little: she was out during the late September and early October heatwave with a maximum of 29.9 deg up the road from us ... it had been dry too, although it made the job pleasant and there had been no risk of getting held up if nothing else.
Heading for the water. Club house beyond tractor unit with the Thames beyond that. Astern, unseen, is the club's slipway ... to paradise.
On Sunday's tide the mate had a run through the new engine: her mind was absent except for the starting and stopping bit ... 'It's all I need to know,' she said!
It was funny: I heard the mate having a conversation as she stepped aboard the boat ... with the boat that is. She patted her, affectionately, reassuring her, I think... Before lift out the mate had told me to tell the boat what was happening ... Hmm!
I smiled quietly - both times!
Posted on 09 Oct 2011 by admin
Nick loves proper little tenders
Tenders, how many yachts carry a decent tender these days? the answer, if you're having to think about it, is few.
I've written a little about this before and an article in a regional magazine is due to be published later in the autumn. Again this summer I watched horrified as overloaded tiny little infltables splashed by with water soaking all and sundry, stores and all. Heads would look at my boat's hind end and fingers would point to the cocky little tender floating patiently behind her, waiting for her next call. No I can't store her on deck. Most boats over or around 10m could stow something similar though.
I can hear people shouting about towing round the coast ... our forefathers did it. Offshore, well that could be different, but if I went 'forin' hopping across to mainland Europe I'd have to do it! A little bit of effort is all it takes ...
During the summer I made great pains to look more closely at what I've already observed - that paucity of proper little tenders. Now, around the Walton Backwaters and, to some extent, the Orwell, tenders of the proper sort can be seen tugging along behind the mother ship often. Elsewhere, not so.
I was in Brightlingsea, I'd just dropped my own little boat's lugsail when a super thing passed by. She was being wafted along in a light air. The chap could have been me: he had that look oft described by my mate. It was a look of supreme satisfaction and contentment. The boat is shown below ...
Then there was the afternoon when I arrived in Pyfleet ... " ... well I never," I thought as I gazed across the water at a largish modern cruising yacht, but not excessively so. She had one of those dinghies that bolt together sat on her foredeck. Those designs types were once very popular before the advent of the rubber flubbers ... It look the business too and I bet she had a little sail to compliment her pedigree.
Two part dinghy on fore deck of modern cruiser.
Later in the summer I was in Conyer. Along the pontoon sat a lovely gentleman's motor yacht. In her davits was a super little clinker dinghy, pram bow and centre plate slot, "Ooh ..." I intoned, adding, "... a man from my own heart ..." as my mate waited patiently for me.
Here she is. "Sweet, aint she!"
I've written a little about this before and an article in a regional magazine is due to be published later in the autumn. Again this summer I watched horrified as overloaded tiny little infltables splashed by with water soaking all and sundry, stores and all. Heads would look at my boat's hind end and fingers would point to the cocky little tender floating patiently behind her, waiting for her next call. No I can't store her on deck. Most boats over or around 10m could stow something similar though.
I can hear people shouting about towing round the coast ... our forefathers did it. Offshore, well that could be different, but if I went 'forin' hopping across to mainland Europe I'd have to do it! A little bit of effort is all it takes ...
During the summer I made great pains to look more closely at what I've already observed - that paucity of proper little tenders. Now, around the Walton Backwaters and, to some extent, the Orwell, tenders of the proper sort can be seen tugging along behind the mother ship often. Elsewhere, not so.
I was in Brightlingsea, I'd just dropped my own little boat's lugsail when a super thing passed by. She was being wafted along in a light air. The chap could have been me: he had that look oft described by my mate. It was a look of supreme satisfaction and contentment. The boat is shown below ...
Then there was the afternoon when I arrived in Pyfleet ... " ... well I never," I thought as I gazed across the water at a largish modern cruising yacht, but not excessively so. She had one of those dinghies that bolt together sat on her foredeck. Those designs types were once very popular before the advent of the rubber flubbers ... It look the business too and I bet she had a little sail to compliment her pedigree.
Two part dinghy on fore deck of modern cruiser.
Later in the summer I was in Conyer. Along the pontoon sat a lovely gentleman's motor yacht. In her davits was a super little clinker dinghy, pram bow and centre plate slot, "Ooh ..." I intoned, adding, "... a man from my own heart ..." as my mate waited patiently for me.
Here she is. "Sweet, aint she!"
Posted on 23 Sep 2011 by admin
Nick Ardley's new book
Life on the water has been a little quiet this past week or so. On a fine day last week I did get away for an idylic work up towards the Benfleet YC, a run out then a reach across to Leigh, run to the Essex YC, out to the West Leigh Middle and work up to the outside pontoon of my Island club before heading home, berthing some 20 minutes before the tide left me glued to the bottom.
It hasn't been just the wind/weather, the small need (by my publisher) for me to answer questions, proof check illustrations and then finally the whole book - the new book - has kept me cocooned away. When I say cocooned, what I really mean is that I'm not near the boat!
It's strange going back over my words again ... the odd mistake rears up from time to time, though, apart from some punctuation, my editor had few queries this time round, most not needing my thoughts. I came across a lot of bits and thought: 'wow did I write that?' Hey ho!
On Sunday, with the mate, I went over to Foulness Island, hoping to get on. There was a cycle event and the radio had said, do come, the heritage centre is open ... but alas the place was only open to cyclists. Normal open day is the first Sunday of each month. But, if you land at the old barge quay on the Roach there is a public right of way to the village of Foulness. They can't stop you walking the path, I was told. They, of course, are MOD security personnel. And the one I spoke to was a very helpfull chap!
Anyway we ended up poking around the top end of Barling Creek at Little Wakering and gazing inland at the waterway's old inland course. They say Canvey Island is low, yet much of Little Wakering is a bowl waiting to be filled.
The creek was marked by a series of posts that lead up to a, I thought, a winter berth by its head, and something was very wrong. The mate had said, 'Look some of the posts have green top marks...' I looked and couldn't see any. Silly me I was looking at the wrong ones: the marks are on the wrong side of the channel! Local knowledge, I suppose!
The mate made a comment about remembering that, when we sail up ... in the full expectation of our doing so at some time or other. She still has a fresh memory of us diverting from a tack whilst sailing up the Thames and hooking into Dartford Creek. The tide run seemed to show me the way, so in I went... We turned a short time later beneath the dam, barrier, infernal thing blocking a natural waterway and reached back out. Opposite is the Mardyke ... but it comes out of the wall with a footbridge acoss the little bit that's left and Whimbrel wouldn't fit, so we'd carried on to Erith for the night...
Ah well, memories of sailing crop up all the time. Don't they just!
Sailing into Dartfod Creek - we turned on the leg up to the barrier (The mate was scowling at me by then!)
It hasn't been just the wind/weather, the small need (by my publisher) for me to answer questions, proof check illustrations and then finally the whole book - the new book - has kept me cocooned away. When I say cocooned, what I really mean is that I'm not near the boat!
It's strange going back over my words again ... the odd mistake rears up from time to time, though, apart from some punctuation, my editor had few queries this time round, most not needing my thoughts. I came across a lot of bits and thought: 'wow did I write that?' Hey ho!
On Sunday, with the mate, I went over to Foulness Island, hoping to get on. There was a cycle event and the radio had said, do come, the heritage centre is open ... but alas the place was only open to cyclists. Normal open day is the first Sunday of each month. But, if you land at the old barge quay on the Roach there is a public right of way to the village of Foulness. They can't stop you walking the path, I was told. They, of course, are MOD security personnel. And the one I spoke to was a very helpfull chap!
Anyway we ended up poking around the top end of Barling Creek at Little Wakering and gazing inland at the waterway's old inland course. They say Canvey Island is low, yet much of Little Wakering is a bowl waiting to be filled.
The creek was marked by a series of posts that lead up to a, I thought, a winter berth by its head, and something was very wrong. The mate had said, 'Look some of the posts have green top marks...' I looked and couldn't see any. Silly me I was looking at the wrong ones: the marks are on the wrong side of the channel! Local knowledge, I suppose!
The mate made a comment about remembering that, when we sail up ... in the full expectation of our doing so at some time or other. She still has a fresh memory of us diverting from a tack whilst sailing up the Thames and hooking into Dartford Creek. The tide run seemed to show me the way, so in I went... We turned a short time later beneath the dam, barrier, infernal thing blocking a natural waterway and reached back out. Opposite is the Mardyke ... but it comes out of the wall with a footbridge acoss the little bit that's left and Whimbrel wouldn't fit, so we'd carried on to Erith for the night...
Ah well, memories of sailing crop up all the time. Don't they just!
Sailing into Dartfod Creek - we turned on the leg up to the barrier (The mate was scowling at me by then!)
Posted on 13 Sep 2011 by admin
Nick's Medway flit
With my big brother over from Canada for our mum's 80th bash on the Edith May - wow what a grand day that was too - I had the opportunity to take him for an overnight flit to Upnor from my Canvey Island base. So he beetled over to Essex on the train ... for the sail back again! I dropped him the next day at Queenborough before 'flying' back across the Thames with a cracking quartering breeze, sailing into Smallgains Creek 2 1/4 hours after leaving Queenborough YC'c floating pontoon...
On the way up the Medway we had a soft little breeze, enough to break the back of the tide and get up to the Medway YC before dusk. Dusk, yeh, it's coming earlier and earlier at this time of the year. The subject of Hoo came up... Big brother knows all about Hoo having scuttled about the area when a but a lad.
During the summer I had my usual gander along towards the old fort, beyond the remains of the fruit schooner Rhoda Mary rotting away on the mud flats close into the beach. Then through along past Brice' and then Lapthorn's wharves through to Buttercock Wharf and the barge graveyard a little east - my brother was staggered by the numbers of old girls now resting in that little nook. It's my belief that the hulks have been arranged to act as a breakwater. In time all will rot away, but in the mean time mud will build up and marsh should take hold.
While I was in and around the boatyard at that eastern end looking at its eclectic array boats, ranging from yachts to live aboards that were once small coasters, did my annual barge survey... In amongst that lot is the Niagara, now in the water and on the way to being rigged out. I hear that she is to be hard rigged for racing ... with a bowsprit, as I hear too that the Melissa is to be rigged with during the winter. The poor old Ena looks sad and neglected. What is her future, I wonder.
The one big bro' was intersted in was the Defiance. She's been a little cut up lately...
I saw her with her new transom, which I think looked better than her previous. Her old transom and around a metre of her hull sat in the drydock bottom where it had been placed after being severed from the ship ... this was done to bring the vessel to a mm or two below 24m... and thus be classed as a yacht and not needing a 'special' skipper!
On the way down river I pointed out Otterham Creek away in the distance: he was looking towards our old home village of Upchurch, where the Westmoreland has been taken. Someone had told me (up on the barge river - Blackwater) that the old girl had been removed from her dry dock and placed in the marshes ... tosh ... what do they know ... Kent's becoming the barge rebuilding centre now...
As can be seen she's still high and dry awaiting work. The team who have 'got' her have not given up on grants or sponsorship (Where are all you brick companies ... these girls helped make your millions in the past - even Boris should be interested: these humble craft, and she's the last of a type, built most of the London Victorian and Edwardian streets...)
Suffice to say that it was an enjoyable flit and I was able to send big bro' away, back to Newfie, happy, with more Medway memories and stuff to gable about to his family.
On the way up the Medway we had a soft little breeze, enough to break the back of the tide and get up to the Medway YC before dusk. Dusk, yeh, it's coming earlier and earlier at this time of the year. The subject of Hoo came up... Big brother knows all about Hoo having scuttled about the area when a but a lad.
During the summer I had my usual gander along towards the old fort, beyond the remains of the fruit schooner Rhoda Mary rotting away on the mud flats close into the beach. Then through along past Brice' and then Lapthorn's wharves through to Buttercock Wharf and the barge graveyard a little east - my brother was staggered by the numbers of old girls now resting in that little nook. It's my belief that the hulks have been arranged to act as a breakwater. In time all will rot away, but in the mean time mud will build up and marsh should take hold.
While I was in and around the boatyard at that eastern end looking at its eclectic array boats, ranging from yachts to live aboards that were once small coasters, did my annual barge survey... In amongst that lot is the Niagara, now in the water and on the way to being rigged out. I hear that she is to be hard rigged for racing ... with a bowsprit, as I hear too that the Melissa is to be rigged with during the winter. The poor old Ena looks sad and neglected. What is her future, I wonder.
The one big bro' was intersted in was the Defiance. She's been a little cut up lately...
I saw her with her new transom, which I think looked better than her previous. Her old transom and around a metre of her hull sat in the drydock bottom where it had been placed after being severed from the ship ... this was done to bring the vessel to a mm or two below 24m... and thus be classed as a yacht and not needing a 'special' skipper!
On the way down river I pointed out Otterham Creek away in the distance: he was looking towards our old home village of Upchurch, where the Westmoreland has been taken. Someone had told me (up on the barge river - Blackwater) that the old girl had been removed from her dry dock and placed in the marshes ... tosh ... what do they know ... Kent's becoming the barge rebuilding centre now...
As can be seen she's still high and dry awaiting work. The team who have 'got' her have not given up on grants or sponsorship (Where are all you brick companies ... these girls helped make your millions in the past - even Boris should be interested: these humble craft, and she's the last of a type, built most of the London Victorian and Edwardian streets...)
Suffice to say that it was an enjoyable flit and I was able to send big bro' away, back to Newfie, happy, with more Medway memories and stuff to gable about to his family.
Posted on 07 Sep 2011 by admin
All at sea ... Nick helped Timothy Spall depart ...
Towards the end, well the penultimate day in fact, of our summer cruising we fetched up in one of our favourire little watering holes ... Queenborough. We needed water! Our last top up had been 6 days earlier at St Katharine Docks.
Later, after luncheon, I rowed to the floating pontoon in the tender to fetch the first batch of water. Coming alongside, I was hailed from the open wheelhouse of a Dutch type barge by a loose shirted gentleman, his sleeves turned up in a theatrical manner, topped with a loose waistcoat. The kind hearted chap thought I'd needed help... Now I've been climbing in and out of dinghies of varying size for 55 years, but haven't quite reached the chair lift stage yet!
Failing to find the water tap ... another person ... Shane, I think, on the vessel pointed me some metres up the walkway where it had been placed after the recent breakage of the structure. On the way, my mind had worked overtime: I thought the face, of the man who'd hailed, familiar in some way ... I remained puzzled for a little longer.
I was back on the pontoon for my second fill-up before I'd twigged. The chap was the actor who'd played a cricket club captain in a TV sitcom - for me a very enjoyable programme. Well that's what I remember him from, but I understand he played a part in Harry Potter film too!
Dropping my water canisters into the dinghy the 'lady of the tap', had called out, asking if I could flick their bow line clear of a cleat... I said, passing the mooring line, 'Look me up on nickardley.com...' She called something back ... but it was lost in the commotion of boat movements.
A man was then seen filming ... he confirmed that it was Timothy Spall's boat. I then learnt that he'd been doing a protracted round Britain trip - '...good on you...' I thought. Spall - All At Sea...
Some friends from my club were approaching on their sailing cruiser (apparently they didn't want the bother of blowing up their rubber dinghy...) as the barge departed so, as I took their lines, I warned them to keep smiling and look seamanlike: they were by then in line with Spall's barge and were clearly on camera!
Back aboard Whimbrel I watched as the Dutch barge rounded Queenborough Spit and set forth up the Medway. That was around early afternoon. Relating all I'd seen to the mate, she enlightened me about Spall's HP part ... cor, I should have known that, surely!
I was flabbergasted to hear the next day that they had been 'rescued' from Stangate Spit (or thereabouts) at around 2130 the evening before... Second time around, he made it!
A view across Burntwick Island, a little upriver from Stangate Spit. Stangate must be one of the East coast's most idylic anchoring spots. Its birdlife cannot be bettered. It has seals too... It has old barge hulks, wharves and much historical interest, besides ... safe anchorages.
All East Coaster sailors have been on the mud from time to time ... you just wait for the tide and have a cup of tea ... lots of cups ... or maybe get out the broom and surreptitiously look as if you're tickling up the boat's bottom...!
If you read this Timothy, no hard feelings mate, the Medway mud is something I've known from childhood: it's pretty harmless stuff.
Perhaps you'd like to read my Thames Estuary books...
Later, after luncheon, I rowed to the floating pontoon in the tender to fetch the first batch of water. Coming alongside, I was hailed from the open wheelhouse of a Dutch type barge by a loose shirted gentleman, his sleeves turned up in a theatrical manner, topped with a loose waistcoat. The kind hearted chap thought I'd needed help... Now I've been climbing in and out of dinghies of varying size for 55 years, but haven't quite reached the chair lift stage yet!
Failing to find the water tap ... another person ... Shane, I think, on the vessel pointed me some metres up the walkway where it had been placed after the recent breakage of the structure. On the way, my mind had worked overtime: I thought the face, of the man who'd hailed, familiar in some way ... I remained puzzled for a little longer.
I was back on the pontoon for my second fill-up before I'd twigged. The chap was the actor who'd played a cricket club captain in a TV sitcom - for me a very enjoyable programme. Well that's what I remember him from, but I understand he played a part in Harry Potter film too!
Dropping my water canisters into the dinghy the 'lady of the tap', had called out, asking if I could flick their bow line clear of a cleat... I said, passing the mooring line, 'Look me up on nickardley.com...' She called something back ... but it was lost in the commotion of boat movements.
A man was then seen filming ... he confirmed that it was Timothy Spall's boat. I then learnt that he'd been doing a protracted round Britain trip - '...good on you...' I thought. Spall - All At Sea...
Some friends from my club were approaching on their sailing cruiser (apparently they didn't want the bother of blowing up their rubber dinghy...) as the barge departed so, as I took their lines, I warned them to keep smiling and look seamanlike: they were by then in line with Spall's barge and were clearly on camera!
Back aboard Whimbrel I watched as the Dutch barge rounded Queenborough Spit and set forth up the Medway. That was around early afternoon. Relating all I'd seen to the mate, she enlightened me about Spall's HP part ... cor, I should have known that, surely!
I was flabbergasted to hear the next day that they had been 'rescued' from Stangate Spit (or thereabouts) at around 2130 the evening before... Second time around, he made it!
A view across Burntwick Island, a little upriver from Stangate Spit. Stangate must be one of the East coast's most idylic anchoring spots. Its birdlife cannot be bettered. It has seals too... It has old barge hulks, wharves and much historical interest, besides ... safe anchorages.
All East Coaster sailors have been on the mud from time to time ... you just wait for the tide and have a cup of tea ... lots of cups ... or maybe get out the broom and surreptitiously look as if you're tickling up the boat's bottom...!
If you read this Timothy, no hard feelings mate, the Medway mud is something I've known from childhood: it's pretty harmless stuff.
Perhaps you'd like to read my Thames Estuary books...
Posted on 29 Aug 2011 by admin
Southend Barge Match 2011
Hi all, the mate wanted to invade a high street store good for knickers and such ... so a suggestion of a picnic and convivial chattererings about which was what and what was going on from her grounded skipper about barges out on the Thames convinced her ... about the picnic anyway!
SIX barges turned out ... well that was the same as could let go their moorings and make it out for the Medway in mid June... Ah, when I was a boy...
Anyway here are a series of pictures relating the events as they came to a conclusion. They were taken with my 40x Cannon camera - a stronger lens was really needed - from the beach by the hosting club's dinghy rack/slipway.
The EDME approaching the last mark for the run for home... Hhhhh ... first in class. I understand that next year the Xylonite will be refurbished, stripped out and set to challenge this east coast greyhound... The Niagara too, a bird tweeted...
The mighty Melissa bounding towards the final mark - seeming to match, almost, the fleet footed EDME ... wow what could she do with a bowsprit? First in class and well done for coming down from Pin Mill.
The Medway's lovely Edith May taking the gun off the pier - those barnacles need cleaning off Ed! Second in class.
The very correct and sweet looking Marjorie, the Medway's other lady, passing the Leigh buoy... Second in class.
The Adieu luffing for the last mark ... she'd seemed bound for Holland (or the pier) before a sudden change of course towards Leigh. It was as if they'd decided they were still in the race! She's one of my favourite looking barges... Third in class.
My mate has long got used to me oggling barges ... better than gazing wide eyed at the other females in this world...!
The Lady of the Lea sailing direct for the pier ... well done sir ... don't think she made the West Nore Sand buoy... The Alice, Henry and Whippet are more her size - pity they're not racing, in area or even sailing - as the case may be!
The Adieu taking the last gun of the day off the pier ... third in class. The rest of the fleet are in view gathered round the pier head.
Results are from observation and not the officials.
SIX barges turned out ... well that was the same as could let go their moorings and make it out for the Medway in mid June... Ah, when I was a boy...
Anyway here are a series of pictures relating the events as they came to a conclusion. They were taken with my 40x Cannon camera - a stronger lens was really needed - from the beach by the hosting club's dinghy rack/slipway.
The EDME approaching the last mark for the run for home... Hhhhh ... first in class. I understand that next year the Xylonite will be refurbished, stripped out and set to challenge this east coast greyhound... The Niagara too, a bird tweeted...
The mighty Melissa bounding towards the final mark - seeming to match, almost, the fleet footed EDME ... wow what could she do with a bowsprit? First in class and well done for coming down from Pin Mill.
The Medway's lovely Edith May taking the gun off the pier - those barnacles need cleaning off Ed! Second in class.
The very correct and sweet looking Marjorie, the Medway's other lady, passing the Leigh buoy... Second in class.
The Adieu luffing for the last mark ... she'd seemed bound for Holland (or the pier) before a sudden change of course towards Leigh. It was as if they'd decided they were still in the race! She's one of my favourite looking barges... Third in class.
My mate has long got used to me oggling barges ... better than gazing wide eyed at the other females in this world...!
The Lady of the Lea sailing direct for the pier ... well done sir ... don't think she made the West Nore Sand buoy... The Alice, Henry and Whippet are more her size - pity they're not racing, in area or even sailing - as the case may be!
The Adieu taking the last gun of the day off the pier ... third in class. The rest of the fleet are in view gathered round the pier head.
Results are from observation and not the officials.
Posted on 28 Aug 2011 by admin
A barge's bob flutters aloft again - May Flower 1888 to 1989 - on the Edith May
The family took our mum out on a barge for an early 80th present. We chose Lower Halstow's beauty: Geoff and Jane Gransden's lovely Edith May. It was apt for both she and the May Flower raced alongside each other in the early 1960s. It was a grand day with it being an absolute surprise for mother, especially as all had kept from her that No.1 son was coming over from Newfoundland. For our mother that was probably the best bit ... ah!
My mate had put together a replica of May Flower's bob. It can be found in Fred Cooper's book Racing Sailorman. It was a Black 'A' on a yellow back ground with a royal blue fly with four white dots (the crew my parents bred for the barge...) It flew proudly from Edith May's sprit end and, true to the real thing, it crackled as it fluttered. I must admit ... it was a little heart wrenching seeing it up aloft again.
May Flower's bob flutters aloft again... Here we were on a run, but later it streamed out cracking to the Thames' breeze.
The mate and I had earlier puttered into the dock early on the tide to collect the May Flower's long standing mate - the tides were neaps and that morning it didn't make so we only just did it. (Mum's return was by the Gransden's barge boat...)
Mother had a slow sail out over the Cant for lunch and champagne at anchor in towards the shore before, with an enterprising breeze, she went back to Essex tramping across the Thames as Edith May got into her stride ... reenacting passages made on the May Flower many times over two and half decades from 1951.
We had a buffet lunch and everyone was very impressed with the catering led by Jane and the barge's excelent cook, Mary.
I'm home now - by the way - after a six week cruise around the East Coast's rivers, creeks and ditches...
My mate had put together a replica of May Flower's bob. It can be found in Fred Cooper's book Racing Sailorman. It was a Black 'A' on a yellow back ground with a royal blue fly with four white dots (the crew my parents bred for the barge...) It flew proudly from Edith May's sprit end and, true to the real thing, it crackled as it fluttered. I must admit ... it was a little heart wrenching seeing it up aloft again.
May Flower's bob flutters aloft again... Here we were on a run, but later it streamed out cracking to the Thames' breeze.
The mate and I had earlier puttered into the dock early on the tide to collect the May Flower's long standing mate - the tides were neaps and that morning it didn't make so we only just did it. (Mum's return was by the Gransden's barge boat...)
Mother had a slow sail out over the Cant for lunch and champagne at anchor in towards the shore before, with an enterprising breeze, she went back to Essex tramping across the Thames as Edith May got into her stride ... reenacting passages made on the May Flower many times over two and half decades from 1951.
We had a buffet lunch and everyone was very impressed with the catering led by Jane and the barge's excelent cook, Mary.
I'm home now - by the way - after a six week cruise around the East Coast's rivers, creeks and ditches...
Posted on 27 Aug 2011 by admin
Essex Learning Service staff meeting over ... now to play!
Ah the joys of part time work and be able to lead a mostly stress free life. This came to me earlier than most and it wasn't what was wanted either. However I've come to enjoy it: it opened doors and set me on my new course. That was ten years ago now... So with all thoughts (well maybe there's a modicum drifting about) of personal development and other such stuff safely tucked up - I'm free!
Many of you will probably think I live a life of riley - the family think it any way. I'm off back to the boat on Saturday with the mate, though she has to return to the grindstone ... to leave me drifting around - alone. It's un-thoughtful in the extreme: a man needs his comforts!
I am planning to leave the Deben on Monday and make my way southwards to the Walton Backwaters, a little piece of paradise, tucked into the bosom of the Tendring Peninsular. If the Anglia Afloat motor boat cruise made it away (no reason why not) I may meet up with them: ex editor Paul Thomas said,'...do drop in on us...' I'd explained, tongue in cheek, that I do use my engine from time to time!
Coming into the Deben a few weeks ago could have been hairy - well it was for a brief moment - because a mist came down and obliterated the inner buoy as I closed the outer ... it was a weird experience sailing along in a bubble of sunshine surrounded by fluffy cotton wool. Inside, in the river proper, the mist rolled off the land along the mud flats. Janet Harber told me later that she came in under her GPS and plotter. I don't have the latter...
In the spirit of the RYA long term policy of members taking people afloat, my regular crew for a boys outing is on the agenda the following weekend with a planned pick up at Bradwell on Thursday evening: anything is possible from there. We may go to the Crouch via the Rays'n, attack Burnham, and pop back up to Brightlingsea for the Saturday with a not too adversarial hop back to Bradwell for the chap to motor home, bristly, hoary and in need of a shower!
I first took the chap sailing many years ago now ... he took to it like a duck to water and just loves it. I think the variety of waterside taverns helped enormously though!
My sister popped a sentence into a conversation recently, 'Oh, doodah would like a sail ... my walking companion ... I told her you've two cabins ... we could share. (Sorry - the two girls that is folks!)! My mate appears to have sanctioned it... The girl's brother lives, and possibly sails too, somewhere up the Norfolk coast. Wells or Brancaster ... but not as high up as Burnham Overy. I love those places too!
Burnham Overy and its half tide quay - take a look you people of Bradwell (Especially Maldon District Council), your old barge quay could look like this too. Can't you get it fixed? Maybe the builder of the next power station could be coerced into doing it.
Taking people out on our craft should be something we should all do from time to time. It not only gives pleasure. It’s also giving something back and it may awaken the desire, in others, to learn about sailing and then go out to explore on one’s own. Done sensibly a new shipmate could be born, to take the place when others can't. It’s good to have a reliable helm, picker up of moorings and sail hauler. Basic chart work follows as does the plethora of other stuff. And when your new crew sails the boat onto a mooring buoy for the first time the elation, from both, is grand indeed!
My Bradwell chap is my second different crew (other than the boat's mate) this season so far... The mate will be with me soon after ... and she can't wait!
Oh yes, the MG is fixed - apparently an air lock/boil over - no damage, didn't overheat, holds a vacuum. I drive with trepidation, building my up my faith in her, but she's a lovely thing...
Many of you will probably think I live a life of riley - the family think it any way. I'm off back to the boat on Saturday with the mate, though she has to return to the grindstone ... to leave me drifting around - alone. It's un-thoughtful in the extreme: a man needs his comforts!
I am planning to leave the Deben on Monday and make my way southwards to the Walton Backwaters, a little piece of paradise, tucked into the bosom of the Tendring Peninsular. If the Anglia Afloat motor boat cruise made it away (no reason why not) I may meet up with them: ex editor Paul Thomas said,'...do drop in on us...' I'd explained, tongue in cheek, that I do use my engine from time to time!
Coming into the Deben a few weeks ago could have been hairy - well it was for a brief moment - because a mist came down and obliterated the inner buoy as I closed the outer ... it was a weird experience sailing along in a bubble of sunshine surrounded by fluffy cotton wool. Inside, in the river proper, the mist rolled off the land along the mud flats. Janet Harber told me later that she came in under her GPS and plotter. I don't have the latter...
In the spirit of the RYA long term policy of members taking people afloat, my regular crew for a boys outing is on the agenda the following weekend with a planned pick up at Bradwell on Thursday evening: anything is possible from there. We may go to the Crouch via the Rays'n, attack Burnham, and pop back up to Brightlingsea for the Saturday with a not too adversarial hop back to Bradwell for the chap to motor home, bristly, hoary and in need of a shower!
I first took the chap sailing many years ago now ... he took to it like a duck to water and just loves it. I think the variety of waterside taverns helped enormously though!
My sister popped a sentence into a conversation recently, 'Oh, doodah would like a sail ... my walking companion ... I told her you've two cabins ... we could share. (Sorry - the two girls that is folks!)! My mate appears to have sanctioned it... The girl's brother lives, and possibly sails too, somewhere up the Norfolk coast. Wells or Brancaster ... but not as high up as Burnham Overy. I love those places too!
Burnham Overy and its half tide quay - take a look you people of Bradwell (Especially Maldon District Council), your old barge quay could look like this too. Can't you get it fixed? Maybe the builder of the next power station could be coerced into doing it.
Taking people out on our craft should be something we should all do from time to time. It not only gives pleasure. It’s also giving something back and it may awaken the desire, in others, to learn about sailing and then go out to explore on one’s own. Done sensibly a new shipmate could be born, to take the place when others can't. It’s good to have a reliable helm, picker up of moorings and sail hauler. Basic chart work follows as does the plethora of other stuff. And when your new crew sails the boat onto a mooring buoy for the first time the elation, from both, is grand indeed!
My Bradwell chap is my second different crew (other than the boat's mate) this season so far... The mate will be with me soon after ... and she can't wait!
Oh yes, the MG is fixed - apparently an air lock/boil over - no damage, didn't overheat, holds a vacuum. I drive with trepidation, building my up my faith in her, but she's a lovely thing...
Posted on 14 Jul 2011 by admin
Nick Ardley's new book delivered to publisher...
Aha, so this is what I came home for - an appointment with my publisher down in Stroud.
What a journey ... almost as bad as an attack in the Wallet with over-falls stuffed in for extras.
I set off last Thursday to deliver my manuscript, pictures and artwork for my new book - all went swimmingly after the early ebb held me up on the outer swatch (M25). I'd checked in the back of the car (MGTF) for any signs of trouble on a convenient sand bar (Clacket Farm) and thought good thoughts about the little thing: she’d had a new head joint fitted last month.
Ha! Silly wasn't I: it wasn't long before I spotted the wavering temperature gauge. A stop showed the first signs of my problems. '...was I going to make it to Stroud?' I'd mused, my head swimming with all the hassles to come.
Finally I'd used all my water up. It was somewhere near Tetbury. Going along slowly, nursing the poor thing, I was forced off the road - literally - by a huge 4x4... 'This is worse than the Wallet on a bad day!' I thought.
I spotted a sign for an industrial unit ... 'MOTs and Servicing' it said, so nursing the poor little thing along I pitched up and dropped anchor...
'Trouble...' someone said, taking a look at the hot little thing. He quickly added, 'Boss will be back in a moment...' This was all in the local lilt.
Anyway, the proprietor must have felt sorry for me and immediately dangled a set of keys for a battered old VW Golf saying, 'Get off for your meeting ... you can sort out on your return...' I'd already called the AA and they were booked to pick the little one up...
I had the meeting with my publisher and all is safely in his care.
News on expected dates will follow as they are firmed up. It will either be immediately prior to or after Christmas.
While visiting the little baby in hospital and being close to Rochford I popped over to Sutton Wharf for a look around. First I had a gander into the Wakering YC. I had a natter with the rear commodore and saw several members slowly getting on with outfitting. The Rear Com was a pleasant and helpful chap who gave me some info on what was happening around their patch and of their attempts to keep silt at bay... They're a self-help club like my own, the Island YC.
I then ambled into the Sutton Wharf Boatyard... Here I found a site deeply at work: not playing. The boss man, director Graham Carter, was able to give me a little of his valuable time. After a short talk he invited me to book an appointment for a longer natter later in the year... I went away with a nice feeling! Graham has promised to talk about his gradfather's founding of the place.
The workman-like slip at Sutton Wharf.
Up Broomhills, a deadend creek, the yard strives to serve the fishing, boating and yachting community. It had a friendly, open feel with an expanse of grass down stream of the slip which gave a rural feel too.
Of course, with the mate, I have sailed up to that spot ... it was related in Mudlarking.
What a journey ... almost as bad as an attack in the Wallet with over-falls stuffed in for extras.
I set off last Thursday to deliver my manuscript, pictures and artwork for my new book - all went swimmingly after the early ebb held me up on the outer swatch (M25). I'd checked in the back of the car (MGTF) for any signs of trouble on a convenient sand bar (Clacket Farm) and thought good thoughts about the little thing: she’d had a new head joint fitted last month.
Ha! Silly wasn't I: it wasn't long before I spotted the wavering temperature gauge. A stop showed the first signs of my problems. '...was I going to make it to Stroud?' I'd mused, my head swimming with all the hassles to come.
Finally I'd used all my water up. It was somewhere near Tetbury. Going along slowly, nursing the poor thing, I was forced off the road - literally - by a huge 4x4... 'This is worse than the Wallet on a bad day!' I thought.
I spotted a sign for an industrial unit ... 'MOTs and Servicing' it said, so nursing the poor little thing along I pitched up and dropped anchor...
'Trouble...' someone said, taking a look at the hot little thing. He quickly added, 'Boss will be back in a moment...' This was all in the local lilt.
Anyway, the proprietor must have felt sorry for me and immediately dangled a set of keys for a battered old VW Golf saying, 'Get off for your meeting ... you can sort out on your return...' I'd already called the AA and they were booked to pick the little one up...
I had the meeting with my publisher and all is safely in his care.
News on expected dates will follow as they are firmed up. It will either be immediately prior to or after Christmas.
While visiting the little baby in hospital and being close to Rochford I popped over to Sutton Wharf for a look around. First I had a gander into the Wakering YC. I had a natter with the rear commodore and saw several members slowly getting on with outfitting. The Rear Com was a pleasant and helpful chap who gave me some info on what was happening around their patch and of their attempts to keep silt at bay... They're a self-help club like my own, the Island YC.
I then ambled into the Sutton Wharf Boatyard... Here I found a site deeply at work: not playing. The boss man, director Graham Carter, was able to give me a little of his valuable time. After a short talk he invited me to book an appointment for a longer natter later in the year... I went away with a nice feeling! Graham has promised to talk about his gradfather's founding of the place.
The workman-like slip at Sutton Wharf.
Up Broomhills, a deadend creek, the yard strives to serve the fishing, boating and yachting community. It had a friendly, open feel with an expanse of grass down stream of the slip which gave a rural feel too.
Of course, with the mate, I have sailed up to that spot ... it was related in Mudlarking.
Posted on 11 Jul 2011 by admin
A mighty new Thames barge yacht is born
I was on the River Blackwater, on my up to the Orwell, and had stopped off at that lovely watering hole of Bradwell-Juxta-Mare, because my crew - a brother - hadn't been there. Well, I didn't need that excuse though...
Up on the hard standing of the boat yard was a thing of extreme interest. To me it, sorry, she, had a sublime beauty. Although looking heavily pregnant out of the water, the above waterline curves, sheer and very barge like transom gave her a purposeful and shapely look. She looked right. The owners hope and expect her to be so too.
Ali and JP's barge with no name...
At the moment she is known as 'the barge with no name' and it is going to remain a family secret until her 'christening' when rigged and ready to sail... To me that is both touching and sweet.
The barge was built inland at Worcester by Lambon Hull, the builders of the new river barge Defiance (more on her shortly). She'd arrived in Bradwell that very week on a low loader which had had an interesting passage through the wilds of the Dengie.
The barge's owners, JP and Ali Lodge, currently own the little barge yacht, Elizabeth Anne, berthed on the edge of Tollesbury saltings. The new barge is to take her place ... so Elizabeth Anne is likely to come onto the market sometime in the near future...
The Elizabeth Anne at her moorings at Tollesbury.
Talking to JP, I asked if he was going to try and enter the barge matches ... maybe he should carry a token cargo... Then maybe she'll be recognised... The little Dinah is! (As is the Whippet - by the Medway barge committee...)
JP sent me a batch of pictures taken whilst the barge was being built. The shots were taken by the firm’s partner, Ian Hillsdon. He and Steve Lambon, the other partner, have done a superb job.
The transom laid out...
_by_Ian_Hillsdon.JPG)
The barge's hull nears completion...
I would have liked to see a little rise in her flat bottom towards the stem and less of a 'chine' at the turn into the sides at the fore end, but that area will be under water and its the top which matters most - for looks. The bottom keeps the water out to stay afloat. Her long chines will allow her to track and sail...
I can't wait to see her!
Back to the Defiance: apparently she has had a few centimetres cut out of her length to bring her below the point at which she would have needed a registered barge skipper. It’s an MCA thing too...
Up on the hard standing of the boat yard was a thing of extreme interest. To me it, sorry, she, had a sublime beauty. Although looking heavily pregnant out of the water, the above waterline curves, sheer and very barge like transom gave her a purposeful and shapely look. She looked right. The owners hope and expect her to be so too.
Ali and JP's barge with no name...
At the moment she is known as 'the barge with no name' and it is going to remain a family secret until her 'christening' when rigged and ready to sail... To me that is both touching and sweet.
The barge was built inland at Worcester by Lambon Hull, the builders of the new river barge Defiance (more on her shortly). She'd arrived in Bradwell that very week on a low loader which had had an interesting passage through the wilds of the Dengie.
The barge's owners, JP and Ali Lodge, currently own the little barge yacht, Elizabeth Anne, berthed on the edge of Tollesbury saltings. The new barge is to take her place ... so Elizabeth Anne is likely to come onto the market sometime in the near future...
The Elizabeth Anne at her moorings at Tollesbury.
Talking to JP, I asked if he was going to try and enter the barge matches ... maybe he should carry a token cargo... Then maybe she'll be recognised... The little Dinah is! (As is the Whippet - by the Medway barge committee...)
JP sent me a batch of pictures taken whilst the barge was being built. The shots were taken by the firm’s partner, Ian Hillsdon. He and Steve Lambon, the other partner, have done a superb job.
The transom laid out...
The barge's hull nears completion...
I would have liked to see a little rise in her flat bottom towards the stem and less of a 'chine' at the turn into the sides at the fore end, but that area will be under water and its the top which matters most - for looks. The bottom keeps the water out to stay afloat. Her long chines will allow her to track and sail...
I can't wait to see her!
Back to the Defiance: apparently she has had a few centimetres cut out of her length to bring her below the point at which she would have needed a registered barge skipper. It’s an MCA thing too...
Posted on 05 Jul 2011 by admin
Ah, oh to be away from home ... on upper Thames estuary waters...
It was nearly two weeks ago now when I left the mate at home, slaving away, and took my kid brother (well he's 50’ish and possibly no longer a kid, but ... like me he loves a potter in the tender!) I was away initially to attend an RNSA do up on the Orwell at the Haven Ports YC and a very gracious welcome they gave us - the food was great too. Thank you! The mate came up by car for that...
The crew and me then went round to the Deben River for a leisurely creep around, poking into some of the lesser frequented places ... though as sailors' on that river will know there aren’t that many offshoots - unlike the Medway. My crew had sailed the river frequently in his Albacore dinghy - an early 1950s vintage, but had wanted to come in from the sea. Over The Bar!
Well it was easy - one of the easiest and laziest entrances I've made. We had a following wind, out-sailed a Westerly 34, and too, a looming mist that heightened the tension - briefly: the Mid Knoll buoy disappeared, momentarily as we were approaching the East Knoll...! It only goes t show that even on the smoothest of passages, and especially into the Deben, one must never dismiss the elements.
On one of the days we wandered slowly into Martlesham Creek, probably only a place that craft using it go: two men ashore and a lady on a house boat (big wooden motor cruiser) were surprised to see us ... they'd been watching our approach for quite some time, expecting us to come to grief along the torturous channel - but it was a rising tide and we touched not once... It is superbly buoyed and full marks needs to go to the yard or boat owners...
When I was alone (Oh dear...) I tacked and reached up the winding channel to Wilford Bridge - just for the pure hell of it. Actually it was a sublime sail in near perfect conditions, turning a shade before high water and it is well buoyed too. Passing the boatyard up near Melton I did receive some looks of consternation - they'll remember the boat next time!
Approaching Wilford Bridge - I'd just dumped the jib...
I went up to the bridge because my boyhood sailing home took a cargo of road stone there about 110 years ago ... the log said 140 tons!
Then the following day, with time and tide in favour I took the dinghy to the top of Kirton Creek. Had a poke around the remains of the spritsail barge Three Sisters and sailed to the top, where the man made obstruction - a dam - prevents further passage inland. Close by was a lovely stretch of shingle and sand - where land meets the sea, naturally.
Looking across the water at the Three Sisters as I left her to the company of some swans.
The mate came up for the weekend and we had a glorious evening up in Woodbridge ... then, sadly, we packed the boat up and left her at Waldringfield on a buoy belonging to the friendly yard on the old cement works quay - thanks Andrew...
The crew and me then went round to the Deben River for a leisurely creep around, poking into some of the lesser frequented places ... though as sailors' on that river will know there aren’t that many offshoots - unlike the Medway. My crew had sailed the river frequently in his Albacore dinghy - an early 1950s vintage, but had wanted to come in from the sea. Over The Bar!
Well it was easy - one of the easiest and laziest entrances I've made. We had a following wind, out-sailed a Westerly 34, and too, a looming mist that heightened the tension - briefly: the Mid Knoll buoy disappeared, momentarily as we were approaching the East Knoll...! It only goes t show that even on the smoothest of passages, and especially into the Deben, one must never dismiss the elements.
On one of the days we wandered slowly into Martlesham Creek, probably only a place that craft using it go: two men ashore and a lady on a house boat (big wooden motor cruiser) were surprised to see us ... they'd been watching our approach for quite some time, expecting us to come to grief along the torturous channel - but it was a rising tide and we touched not once... It is superbly buoyed and full marks needs to go to the yard or boat owners...
When I was alone (Oh dear...) I tacked and reached up the winding channel to Wilford Bridge - just for the pure hell of it. Actually it was a sublime sail in near perfect conditions, turning a shade before high water and it is well buoyed too. Passing the boatyard up near Melton I did receive some looks of consternation - they'll remember the boat next time!
Approaching Wilford Bridge - I'd just dumped the jib...
I went up to the bridge because my boyhood sailing home took a cargo of road stone there about 110 years ago ... the log said 140 tons!
Then the following day, with time and tide in favour I took the dinghy to the top of Kirton Creek. Had a poke around the remains of the spritsail barge Three Sisters and sailed to the top, where the man made obstruction - a dam - prevents further passage inland. Close by was a lovely stretch of shingle and sand - where land meets the sea, naturally.
Looking across the water at the Three Sisters as I left her to the company of some swans.
The mate came up for the weekend and we had a glorious evening up in Woodbridge ... then, sadly, we packed the boat up and left her at Waldringfield on a buoy belonging to the friendly yard on the old cement works quay - thanks Andrew...
Posted on 04 Jul 2011 by admin
Thames sailing barges - more on Westmoreland, May Flower & Arrow from 1961
I found this in my collection...
It is the start of the 1961 Medway barge Match. The Westmoreland seems to be leading the fleet over the line.
Barge in foreground thought to be Arrow, when owned by the 'Barge Club', and to LHS is the May Flower ... my childhood home. We were the only sailing home taking part - even then!
Westmoreland came home 1st, Arrow 3rd and May Flower somewhere near the tail...
It is the start of the 1961 Medway barge Match. The Westmoreland seems to be leading the fleet over the line.
Barge in foreground thought to be Arrow, when owned by the 'Barge Club', and to LHS is the May Flower ... my childhood home. We were the only sailing home taking part - even then!
Westmoreland came home 1st, Arrow 3rd and May Flower somewhere near the tail...
Posted on 22 Jun 2011 by admin
Glorious...
Item from 13 May 2012
It's Friday and on Friday's I usually scoot round the house giving it a pre-weekend lick. I'd not attacked the normal start point as I usually did and the mate, nearing the moment she needed to toddle off to her school, had spotted this and she said, 'What you up today then...?'
'Think I'll go for an early sail and do the chores later...'
'Thought you had something planned...' she murmured wheeling her stuff towards the door...
So that is what I did. And it was one of those mornings that it would have been silly to spurn.
I left with the boat just afloat by around 5-10 minutes, cleared the mooring and hoisted the mainsail. Gybing round off the finger berths I soon had the genoa up and pulling. Boy it was gentle, I left the helm to put the kettle on and before I'd cleared the creek it had sung out and my coffee was in my hand ... with aromas drifting around the cockpit...
Clearing the outer moorings, in Smallgains Creek, I sailed by a band of brents - late leavers. Our terns had appeared nearly a month ago. Out on the river, near the West leigh Middle Buoy, was a sailing ship lying to her hook. It was an evocative sight sitting in a haze so I grabbed my camera from my 'boat bag' to catch it and a few of the brents too.
The wind was a little fickle at times, flukey too even, so I wended my way westwards: it was a gentle tide with time to take in the birdlife as I worked through the moored craft and mud banks barely covered, ditch-crawling. Many of the winter species have long gone, but along Two Tree Island the avocet were active as were the terns. I spied a couple of the dreaded Canada geese too. We don't suffer from them greatly in these parts - but for how much longer, I wonder? Oh well!
Soon after I'd made my turn for home, a little after highwater, a fresher breeze popped up and for a short while I enjoyed a stiffer sail. It was not enough to slop the coffe though...
By the time I reached my mooring the breeze had died again ... my little soupcon had filled me with all that is good with life ... ah!
It's Friday and on Friday's I usually scoot round the house giving it a pre-weekend lick. I'd not attacked the normal start point as I usually did and the mate, nearing the moment she needed to toddle off to her school, had spotted this and she said, 'What you up today then...?'
'Think I'll go for an early sail and do the chores later...'
'Thought you had something planned...' she murmured wheeling her stuff towards the door...
So that is what I did. And it was one of those mornings that it would have been silly to spurn.
I left with the boat just afloat by around 5-10 minutes, cleared the mooring and hoisted the mainsail. Gybing round off the finger berths I soon had the genoa up and pulling. Boy it was gentle, I left the helm to put the kettle on and before I'd cleared the creek it had sung out and my coffee was in my hand ... with aromas drifting around the cockpit...
Clearing the outer moorings, in Smallgains Creek, I sailed by a band of brents - late leavers. Our terns had appeared nearly a month ago. Out on the river, near the West leigh Middle Buoy, was a sailing ship lying to her hook. It was an evocative sight sitting in a haze so I grabbed my camera from my 'boat bag' to catch it and a few of the brents too.
The wind was a little fickle at times, flukey too even, so I wended my way westwards: it was a gentle tide with time to take in the birdlife as I worked through the moored craft and mud banks barely covered, ditch-crawling. Many of the winter species have long gone, but along Two Tree Island the avocet were active as were the terns. I spied a couple of the dreaded Canada geese too. We don't suffer from them greatly in these parts - but for how much longer, I wonder? Oh well!
Soon after I'd made my turn for home, a little after highwater, a fresher breeze popped up and for a short while I enjoyed a stiffer sail. It was not enough to slop the coffe though...
By the time I reached my mooring the breeze had died again ... my little soupcon had filled me with all that is good with life ... ah!
Posted on 21 Jun 2011 by admin
Other things I do - but definitely not working
This is a replacement for an earlier news item.
One of the things I do, other than go sailing, is take care of the port and starboard navigation buoys that mark the way into our creek. I had renewed the chains on two of the buoys during late winter/early spring and the others were in dire need of dealing with.
Last week the tides were right to drop the new chains close to the buoys with a good period of day time to do the mud work. This was done with another keen club member using one of the club's work boats. We also dropped a new east cardinal buoy off the Island's point too to replace an older model.
Early the next day we trudged out over the mud/sand mixture and did our stuff... The surface is very hard on the whole with nothing more than an above ankle softness... There are many that would consider the stuff to be a good skin tonic!
The tides were springs and the ebb had bottomed at a level unseen for an exceedingly long time. We were able to drop down into the bed of the Ray Channel and walk round the mouth of our creek, sitting a metre or so above us ... it was uncanny ... ditch-crawling by foot! The footing was hard clay with clay rubble here and there, like pebbles and such. It was fascinating!
The creek buoys, by the way, are jointly sponsored by the Island Yacht Club and Smallgains Marina
We had a lengthy trudge across the flats, through beds of mussel and oysters, past the debris of a post WW2 ship breaking site that inhabited the point many moons ago to reach that buoy. There is a paraphernalia of debris littering the flats. A selection is as follows: rusting steel water tanks; the bottom of a landing craft and a bow door; a chunk of barge leeboard; the bottom timbers of, probably, a spritsail barge: the rise of her bottom floors is visible; and there many other things too amongst a host of bricks - from a slipway, perhaps. The buoy is laid to the east of all of this!
The cardinal buoy marks the eastern end of Canvey's Point Marshes, once an extensive swathe of grazing land... The buoy marks the quickest route to the Thames, although the Ray Sand, or Marsh End Sand as it used to be known, is almost pan handle flat with a merest of height rise to a shell bank southeast of the point. The bank can, some years, be a little higher. A good course is around 210 deg until the Thames opens westwards. However, once I'm clear of my mud berth there is nothing eastwards sticking up higher than that level - so little worries me! Not such a long time ago a swatchway ran over the flats off this point, but alas...
Ah, the things that have to be done ... and I gave up a couple of sails for this too!
See the Island YC web site for my sketch chartlet of Benfleet Creek (Hadleigh Ray) up to the Benfleet YC too. It usually comes up on a google/yahoo or other search against 'nick ardley'...
One of the things I do, other than go sailing, is take care of the port and starboard navigation buoys that mark the way into our creek. I had renewed the chains on two of the buoys during late winter/early spring and the others were in dire need of dealing with.
Last week the tides were right to drop the new chains close to the buoys with a good period of day time to do the mud work. This was done with another keen club member using one of the club's work boats. We also dropped a new east cardinal buoy off the Island's point too to replace an older model.
Early the next day we trudged out over the mud/sand mixture and did our stuff... The surface is very hard on the whole with nothing more than an above ankle softness... There are many that would consider the stuff to be a good skin tonic!
The tides were springs and the ebb had bottomed at a level unseen for an exceedingly long time. We were able to drop down into the bed of the Ray Channel and walk round the mouth of our creek, sitting a metre or so above us ... it was uncanny ... ditch-crawling by foot! The footing was hard clay with clay rubble here and there, like pebbles and such. It was fascinating!
The creek buoys, by the way, are jointly sponsored by the Island Yacht Club and Smallgains Marina
We had a lengthy trudge across the flats, through beds of mussel and oysters, past the debris of a post WW2 ship breaking site that inhabited the point many moons ago to reach that buoy. There is a paraphernalia of debris littering the flats. A selection is as follows: rusting steel water tanks; the bottom of a landing craft and a bow door; a chunk of barge leeboard; the bottom timbers of, probably, a spritsail barge: the rise of her bottom floors is visible; and there many other things too amongst a host of bricks - from a slipway, perhaps. The buoy is laid to the east of all of this!
The cardinal buoy marks the eastern end of Canvey's Point Marshes, once an extensive swathe of grazing land... The buoy marks the quickest route to the Thames, although the Ray Sand, or Marsh End Sand as it used to be known, is almost pan handle flat with a merest of height rise to a shell bank southeast of the point. The bank can, some years, be a little higher. A good course is around 210 deg until the Thames opens westwards. However, once I'm clear of my mud berth there is nothing eastwards sticking up higher than that level - so little worries me! Not such a long time ago a swatchway ran over the flats off this point, but alas...
Ah, the things that have to be done ... and I gave up a couple of sails for this too!
See the Island YC web site for my sketch chartlet of Benfleet Creek (Hadleigh Ray) up to the Benfleet YC too. It usually comes up on a google/yahoo or other search against 'nick ardley'...
Posted on 21 Jun 2011 by admin
The Westmoreland & Faversham's future
Whilst over in Kent recently I toured the waterfronts looking for the Westmoreland, the last remaining 'brickie' in the country. I found her after driving down an old track that once served an industry before it became the local 'dump' or landfil site - it had been a big hole in the chalk. The chalk (and Medway mud...) went into thousands of tons of cememt
The Westmorland sits alongside a wharf that once served the Falcon cement works in the parish of Upchurch. I thought what a grand spot. Loads of space ashore ... it could be made into something ... something good. The wharf has open access to Otterham Creek and the deeper water of Half Acre Creek is nearby... Better water than Faversham's muddy ditch and it's going to worsen there if nothing is done...
My thoughts turned to '...perhaps this a good place for Faversham's barges to decamp to ... Faversham - well the landlord - is turfing their barges away...' Standard Quay is changing, and... '...could this little corner of Kent offer a new home...?'
It seems that Standard Quay is likely to become a 'Disney like' attraction on Mud... How soon will it be before the marsh takes a hold along the quays where once good works were done... Look upstream alongside once busy wharves... Maybe the owner wants a 'stuffed' barge to show off to the visitors...
One wonders: maybe once the real activity that MUST surround a barge, or barges, has gone the visitors will stop wandering down to the waterfront too... I'm watching with interest... Probably attract a different sort ... the type who couldn't care less about our rich maritime heritage and just want a few minutes of self gratification...
The Westmoreland in Cambria's old home. Her renewed (c20 years ago) forward hull looked to be in good condition - I'm sure Colin Frake has already decided what's what... A man said that Colin has been at work on the barge nad that his containerised workshops were on site.
I shall sail into the creek during the summer and pay the place a visit ... the creek has an interest in its own right in any case.
My memories of the Westmoreland go back to the 1962 Thames and Medway barge matches - it's about the time I really can remember. She had sails to die for, unlike May Flower's home made mainsail...
Will we see her jousting with her remaining sisters on those two rivers again...? In two years time perhaps? Wonderful!
The Westmorland sits alongside a wharf that once served the Falcon cement works in the parish of Upchurch. I thought what a grand spot. Loads of space ashore ... it could be made into something ... something good. The wharf has open access to Otterham Creek and the deeper water of Half Acre Creek is nearby... Better water than Faversham's muddy ditch and it's going to worsen there if nothing is done...
My thoughts turned to '...perhaps this a good place for Faversham's barges to decamp to ... Faversham - well the landlord - is turfing their barges away...' Standard Quay is changing, and... '...could this little corner of Kent offer a new home...?'
It seems that Standard Quay is likely to become a 'Disney like' attraction on Mud... How soon will it be before the marsh takes a hold along the quays where once good works were done... Look upstream alongside once busy wharves... Maybe the owner wants a 'stuffed' barge to show off to the visitors...
One wonders: maybe once the real activity that MUST surround a barge, or barges, has gone the visitors will stop wandering down to the waterfront too... I'm watching with interest... Probably attract a different sort ... the type who couldn't care less about our rich maritime heritage and just want a few minutes of self gratification...
The Westmoreland in Cambria's old home. Her renewed (c20 years ago) forward hull looked to be in good condition - I'm sure Colin Frake has already decided what's what... A man said that Colin has been at work on the barge nad that his containerised workshops were on site.
I shall sail into the creek during the summer and pay the place a visit ... the creek has an interest in its own right in any case.
My memories of the Westmoreland go back to the 1962 Thames and Medway barge matches - it's about the time I really can remember. She had sails to die for, unlike May Flower's home made mainsail...
Will we see her jousting with her remaining sisters on those two rivers again...? In two years time perhaps? Wonderful!
Posted on 20 Jun 2011 by admin
The Essex Discovery Coast
On the news this morning I heard something I've often bleated and waxed lyrical about (and others too). The bigwigs who sell Essex have come up with a name for our part of the east coast sailing ground, Essex - The Discovery Coast...
Well, as you can imagine, I grinned at the mate, as she looked at me across the breakfast table, as I thought, '...its more, the mystical coast ... or, the magic coast...' Hey Ho!
Whatever is said about the coastline of Essex, its beauty can only truly be seen from the water... Us sailors know that well!
Coming into or leaving Maldon, an Essex icon on the River Blackwater, is often magical and for me ranks high.
If asked for my treasured spot, I'd have to be honest and say I'd struggle to answer the question, but the views sailing up under Hadleigh's downs, in South Essex, amongst the maze of marshes beneath in winter must be one of them though.
Having walked around Mucking and Fobbing recently and looking at dead creeks, I was interested in the BBC Springwatch programme featuring Pitsea marshes and the tip that has only five years to run. It's to be turned into a reserve - apt since it was once low grazing, marsh and salt marsh...
Well, as you can imagine, I grinned at the mate, as she looked at me across the breakfast table, as I thought, '...its more, the mystical coast ... or, the magic coast...' Hey Ho!
Whatever is said about the coastline of Essex, its beauty can only truly be seen from the water... Us sailors know that well!
Coming into or leaving Maldon, an Essex icon on the River Blackwater, is often magical and for me ranks high.
If asked for my treasured spot, I'd have to be honest and say I'd struggle to answer the question, but the views sailing up under Hadleigh's downs, in South Essex, amongst the maze of marshes beneath in winter must be one of them though.
Having walked around Mucking and Fobbing recently and looking at dead creeks, I was interested in the BBC Springwatch programme featuring Pitsea marshes and the tip that has only five years to run. It's to be turned into a reserve - apt since it was once low grazing, marsh and salt marsh...
Posted on 14 Jun 2011 by admin
Medway Barge Match 2011
We sailed over from our moorings on Canvey Island, creeping out as soon as the flood permitted and reached directly towards the Grain Flats some miles across the estuary. It was an estuary that sparkled intermittently between clouds that threatened, but didn’t send down a deluge from the odd dark one! It was the eleventh of June and both of us were clad in oil skins: weird because of the particularly warm and dry spring...
It was an hour after high water as we crossed the flats in 3m of water. Two other boats following had gone right round the swatch buoys as if following a GPS designated course, both faster than us, but with being in the ebb's grip soon fell well behind! The wind died as soon as we got inside and we slowly clawed our way in, keeping to the shallows, until after a long period in the eastern end of Saltpan Reach ‘toing and froing’ off Cockleshell Hard we slid in towards the shore and dropped anchor. It’s a pleasant enough spot, even with the looming power station close by. It is also a good place to watch the expected fleet of barges.
Repertor appeared first and soon disappeared out past Garrison Point. She was followed, sometime later (about a reach and a half), by the Edith May, Orinoco and EDME, the latter being in the bowsprit class and the others the staysail. Edith May made a poor tack and lost ground to the Orinoco – to be fair, what wind there was, was fluky and light at that time. The audible shouts of derision and whoopee erupted from Faversham’s crowd on the Orinoco. The laugh would be whipped away later though. The Edith May is a Kent barge now and she’s got to know her river well: the crew are honed from regular chartering.
Marjorie with just a few lengths on the Adieu, leaving the inner river.
I’d wondered if that was it!
Then the Marjorie and Adieu came down flying their huge stripped jibs. The Marjorie soon dumped hers to come closer to the wind: the luff was jumping and I remember the old Veronica shaking a balloon jib to shreds on this river around ’62 or ’63! Aboard the Adieu came loud shouts (commands) from aft and two crewmen leapt into the bowsprit ratlines to be ready to haul their big sail down. The shout soon came. Then we had a jumble of barges tacking out past Garrison Point. The Repertor had gone with tide and little wind, directly!
The fleet, except for the Repertor, working out of the inner river.
No further barges appeared and we up-anchored, hoisted the genoa and sailed across the river to the West Swale to find a buoy in Queenborough. We sailed on too, as heads poked from hatches, furtively watching for the 'cock-up' and my mate grinned back at me from the fore deck as she hooked on!
Much later on in the afternoon the first barge reappeared, the EDME. She soon disappeared and was well up Saltpan before the next two, the Repertor closely followed by the Edith May. I watched as the Edith May came up to the stern of the Repertor and tacked. It was a good one: it seemed to take her along Saltpan and out of sight for positioning purposes. The Repertor held her tack before coming round. I was of the impression that the Edith May was sailing much closer to the wind and was staggered by the ground she had picked up. She was singing. Those two barges were soon joined by a jostling match between the Marjorie and the Adieu with the latter appearing to win. Sometime later the Orinco hove in sight, but she had a reach from off Sheerness straight upriver so probably cut the gap.
Edith May catching the Repertor...
My last glimpse of the fleet was of Edith May followed by Repertor and the other two, tack for tacking, as they rounded Sharp Ness. ‘Come on Edith May,’ I had shouted!
I suspect the order didn’t change ... and we settled down for a lovely afternoon with just a single short shower...
Footnote: The Edith May did indeed win her class. Great stuff Geoff, Jane and crew! There are now two survivors from the 1963 Thames and Medway matches still racing - Edith May and Marjorie.
On Sunday morning, departing at 0545, the Thames estuary was a cracking sight. It was a river of liquid gold as the sun streamed in from the east. It was one of those idyllic mornings that I would have been sorry to miss! The mate was in raptures (between yawns). The breeze had been sufficient for us to sail off the buoy and reach out past Grain Fort and keep the engine silenced. It was around half flood too. As bacon sizzled beneath the grill we worked round the shallows saving distance against the tide and soon had the Thames’ run wafting us along too. We later glided, under genoa, across the flats off Canvey’s marsh point. The cloud, promised by the weather man, was building by then and entering the creek the wind headed us, sail was done away with and the engine was run for the first time since clearing the berth on Saturday.
‘...good sail...’ the mate had murmured, beaming at me, as we left the boat.
It was an hour after high water as we crossed the flats in 3m of water. Two other boats following had gone right round the swatch buoys as if following a GPS designated course, both faster than us, but with being in the ebb's grip soon fell well behind! The wind died as soon as we got inside and we slowly clawed our way in, keeping to the shallows, until after a long period in the eastern end of Saltpan Reach ‘toing and froing’ off Cockleshell Hard we slid in towards the shore and dropped anchor. It’s a pleasant enough spot, even with the looming power station close by. It is also a good place to watch the expected fleet of barges.
Repertor appeared first and soon disappeared out past Garrison Point. She was followed, sometime later (about a reach and a half), by the Edith May, Orinoco and EDME, the latter being in the bowsprit class and the others the staysail. Edith May made a poor tack and lost ground to the Orinoco – to be fair, what wind there was, was fluky and light at that time. The audible shouts of derision and whoopee erupted from Faversham’s crowd on the Orinoco. The laugh would be whipped away later though. The Edith May is a Kent barge now and she’s got to know her river well: the crew are honed from regular chartering.
Marjorie with just a few lengths on the Adieu, leaving the inner river.
I’d wondered if that was it!
Then the Marjorie and Adieu came down flying their huge stripped jibs. The Marjorie soon dumped hers to come closer to the wind: the luff was jumping and I remember the old Veronica shaking a balloon jib to shreds on this river around ’62 or ’63! Aboard the Adieu came loud shouts (commands) from aft and two crewmen leapt into the bowsprit ratlines to be ready to haul their big sail down. The shout soon came. Then we had a jumble of barges tacking out past Garrison Point. The Repertor had gone with tide and little wind, directly!
The fleet, except for the Repertor, working out of the inner river.
No further barges appeared and we up-anchored, hoisted the genoa and sailed across the river to the West Swale to find a buoy in Queenborough. We sailed on too, as heads poked from hatches, furtively watching for the 'cock-up' and my mate grinned back at me from the fore deck as she hooked on!
Much later on in the afternoon the first barge reappeared, the EDME. She soon disappeared and was well up Saltpan before the next two, the Repertor closely followed by the Edith May. I watched as the Edith May came up to the stern of the Repertor and tacked. It was a good one: it seemed to take her along Saltpan and out of sight for positioning purposes. The Repertor held her tack before coming round. I was of the impression that the Edith May was sailing much closer to the wind and was staggered by the ground she had picked up. She was singing. Those two barges were soon joined by a jostling match between the Marjorie and the Adieu with the latter appearing to win. Sometime later the Orinco hove in sight, but she had a reach from off Sheerness straight upriver so probably cut the gap.
Edith May catching the Repertor...
My last glimpse of the fleet was of Edith May followed by Repertor and the other two, tack for tacking, as they rounded Sharp Ness. ‘Come on Edith May,’ I had shouted!
I suspect the order didn’t change ... and we settled down for a lovely afternoon with just a single short shower...
Footnote: The Edith May did indeed win her class. Great stuff Geoff, Jane and crew! There are now two survivors from the 1963 Thames and Medway matches still racing - Edith May and Marjorie.
On Sunday morning, departing at 0545, the Thames estuary was a cracking sight. It was a river of liquid gold as the sun streamed in from the east. It was one of those idyllic mornings that I would have been sorry to miss! The mate was in raptures (between yawns). The breeze had been sufficient for us to sail off the buoy and reach out past Grain Fort and keep the engine silenced. It was around half flood too. As bacon sizzled beneath the grill we worked round the shallows saving distance against the tide and soon had the Thames’ run wafting us along too. We later glided, under genoa, across the flats off Canvey’s marsh point. The cloud, promised by the weather man, was building by then and entering the creek the wind headed us, sail was done away with and the engine was run for the first time since clearing the berth on Saturday.
‘...good sail...’ the mate had murmured, beaming at me, as we left the boat.
Posted on 13 Jun 2011 by admin
A ditch-crawler's splendid bottom...
Well, here she is, our ditch-crawler has had her bottom tickled and coated! And a clear, calm, tide has blessed her too...
We missed one tide because of rain! First in these parts for nearly a month. The mate didn't miss out though: the next evening soon after leaving her school she was underneath scrubbing and scraping - she's not a bad scrubber either!
Whilst I changed the centre plate bolt, checked some rudder fastenings and inspected the bronze through hull fittings the mate smartened herself up, slipped into a skirt, and went off for fish & chips...
Within an hour, in a drying wind and late evening sunshine, we were hard at it giving one side of the boat a drop of the red stuff. I'm deemed by the mate to be the expert at cutting in the boot topping so I got to do the easy bits for that first side ... but the next side was after the morings tide and was an early start, alone, at 5 a.m. to settle the boat over, scrub, scrape and paint...
The usual band of onlookers came for a gander at a proper boat out of the water - funny how they always want to talk whilst you've a full brush and wanting to crack on ... be nice, gentle and keep going is my motto: they've never offered to give a hand!
Amazingly there were only a few barnacle pin heads - it was a surprise because of the warmth experienced this past spring. Doubt it had anything to do with the paint quality - though I do use a better brand - I'm sure there is little real 'anti fouling' in it. The mud in my creek mooring soon sticks to the old girls bottom! I do scrub off during the summer as well to keep any growth at bay and it seems to pay off.
During the second session I noticed an oystercatcher nesting in the top of one of a row of telegraph poles that fringe my club's slipway. Early in the morning it got cross ... then we ignored each other and all was well. I left the bird gazing at me as I departed the slipway in the afternoon!
I had more thoughts about dinghies too as I've pottered around the boat and am busy working up a piece of writing...
I've had several contacts about May Flower too in recent weeks, which is nice. The book is being maintained in print by the publisher for the forseeable future.
We missed one tide because of rain! First in these parts for nearly a month. The mate didn't miss out though: the next evening soon after leaving her school she was underneath scrubbing and scraping - she's not a bad scrubber either!
Whilst I changed the centre plate bolt, checked some rudder fastenings and inspected the bronze through hull fittings the mate smartened herself up, slipped into a skirt, and went off for fish & chips...
Within an hour, in a drying wind and late evening sunshine, we were hard at it giving one side of the boat a drop of the red stuff. I'm deemed by the mate to be the expert at cutting in the boot topping so I got to do the easy bits for that first side ... but the next side was after the morings tide and was an early start, alone, at 5 a.m. to settle the boat over, scrub, scrape and paint...
The usual band of onlookers came for a gander at a proper boat out of the water - funny how they always want to talk whilst you've a full brush and wanting to crack on ... be nice, gentle and keep going is my motto: they've never offered to give a hand!
Amazingly there were only a few barnacle pin heads - it was a surprise because of the warmth experienced this past spring. Doubt it had anything to do with the paint quality - though I do use a better brand - I'm sure there is little real 'anti fouling' in it. The mud in my creek mooring soon sticks to the old girls bottom! I do scrub off during the summer as well to keep any growth at bay and it seems to pay off.
During the second session I noticed an oystercatcher nesting in the top of one of a row of telegraph poles that fringe my club's slipway. Early in the morning it got cross ... then we ignored each other and all was well. I left the bird gazing at me as I departed the slipway in the afternoon!
I had more thoughts about dinghies too as I've pottered around the boat and am busy working up a piece of writing...
I've had several contacts about May Flower too in recent weeks, which is nice. The book is being maintained in print by the publisher for the forseeable future.
Posted on 08 Jun 2011 by admin
Things on my mind...
Anti-fouling the bottom of the boat looms: it's one of the mate's favourite activities - a definite wet 'T' shirt look is common. The mate gets right down to it, revelling in the bit under the bottom down to the boat's garboards. You see, we do it on the hard... A scrub, scrape and wipe down before the application of a coat to one side. The boat is listed over onto one of her bilge stubs. The up side is the side the centre plate nut resides. That is knocked through with a new bolt - its nut being run on when the other side is scrubbed etc after the next tide. This year it is a Sunday evening and for me - a very early start the following morning to ground the boat and lean her over on the opposite side ... scrub areas not done, prep and paint. Hull fittings and rudder fastenings, on a rotational programme, are checked too. All of these things are happily accomplished on the club’s hard...
My mind though is on higher things: the serious business of summer sailing is upon me. Not that my sailing on the tide or odd weekends during the other seasons isn’t serious - but I’m sure all get the gist! I have also been getting my little tender tarted up for the season. Her varnished gunnels and thwarts look good but her hull is a little tired and stained - she’s travelled many hundreds of miles, thousands even - there is anything between around 500 to 700 miles as an average span for just summer pottering around the estuary. It needs a rub down and coat of 2-pot ... after some attention of a little filler... The autumn will do!
One of the things I’ve been thinking of lately is the debate (is there a debate: if not there jolly well should be) about proper tenders for yachts. I have always towed a dinghy astern. My present tender is nearly twenty years old. She’s a Faversham dinghy from Alan Staley, the proprietor of a proper boat yard above the Iron Wharf, where he always has a full yard of craft receiving attention for a little job to a complete rebuild. The dinghy is made from glass fibre, has a simulated clinker hull and sets a nicely proportioned lug sail... Anyway, why don’t more cruising owners tow dinghies or carry one in a davit, on larger craft?
How many times have you seen mum, two children and dad setting off from a yacht in an anchorage, or mooring buoy, to row shore in a blow up plastic dinghy that truly belongs on a beach? How often do you see the rower working those short rapid strokes, almost as if beating batter for a yorkie pud? We've all seen a rowers efforts dissipating themselves, largely, in the flexing undulations of the rubber tubes. And whoever is up in the prow - getting exceedingly wet?
I’ve often sat watching all of that, and too, a crew member pumping away at a rubber dinghy pulled from the locker... It slowly unfolds and grows like two bananas joined at the hip. When deemed inflated, bits and bobs, like stern boards, are added for the outboard engine etc. A pair of short paddles get clipped into the 'rowlocks' then there is a splash sounding like ‘flub’ as the air filled rubber is dropped overboard...
Meanwhile, I’ve pulled my tender alongside and either headed for the pontoon with long easy strokes, as the tender tracks onwards, or mounted the rudder, slipped the plate in, hoisted sail and glided away in the lazy afternoon’s breeze...
There could be more on this in time... I know what I prefer.
And the anti fouling still looms!
My mind though is on higher things: the serious business of summer sailing is upon me. Not that my sailing on the tide or odd weekends during the other seasons isn’t serious - but I’m sure all get the gist! I have also been getting my little tender tarted up for the season. Her varnished gunnels and thwarts look good but her hull is a little tired and stained - she’s travelled many hundreds of miles, thousands even - there is anything between around 500 to 700 miles as an average span for just summer pottering around the estuary. It needs a rub down and coat of 2-pot ... after some attention of a little filler... The autumn will do!
One of the things I’ve been thinking of lately is the debate (is there a debate: if not there jolly well should be) about proper tenders for yachts. I have always towed a dinghy astern. My present tender is nearly twenty years old. She’s a Faversham dinghy from Alan Staley, the proprietor of a proper boat yard above the Iron Wharf, where he always has a full yard of craft receiving attention for a little job to a complete rebuild. The dinghy is made from glass fibre, has a simulated clinker hull and sets a nicely proportioned lug sail... Anyway, why don’t more cruising owners tow dinghies or carry one in a davit, on larger craft?
How many times have you seen mum, two children and dad setting off from a yacht in an anchorage, or mooring buoy, to row shore in a blow up plastic dinghy that truly belongs on a beach? How often do you see the rower working those short rapid strokes, almost as if beating batter for a yorkie pud? We've all seen a rowers efforts dissipating themselves, largely, in the flexing undulations of the rubber tubes. And whoever is up in the prow - getting exceedingly wet?
I’ve often sat watching all of that, and too, a crew member pumping away at a rubber dinghy pulled from the locker... It slowly unfolds and grows like two bananas joined at the hip. When deemed inflated, bits and bobs, like stern boards, are added for the outboard engine etc. A pair of short paddles get clipped into the 'rowlocks' then there is a splash sounding like ‘flub’ as the air filled rubber is dropped overboard...
Meanwhile, I’ve pulled my tender alongside and either headed for the pontoon with long easy strokes, as the tender tracks onwards, or mounted the rudder, slipped the plate in, hoisted sail and glided away in the lazy afternoon’s breeze...
There could be more on this in time... I know what I prefer.
And the anti fouling still looms!
Posted on 04 Jun 2011 by admin
Yantlet or bust...
A week or so ago I had a senior moment and forgot that I should have been back at work after the May bank holiday ... I work part time see ... and write ... and got carried away with time off. The mate, I hasten to add, had asked when I was due back - my Ad Education students missed me - Ah!
This week I have been working through all of the boat's sheets and halyards, washing them. Having run the pristine main, jib topping lift hoists through again (I keep an older set to do this) I kind of felt the need to test them out - as one does!
'Where shall I go?' were thoughts that tracked my mind. A thrash acoss the Thames to the Kent shore was the answer.
A group of club 'loafers' leaning on the handrails of the moorings watched as I sailed out of the creek. My mainsail had quickly followed the jib up as a remark came floating over the water, '...she's going well...' I grinned.
It was a sparkling sort of day. A strong sun was intermittently shaded by high broken cloud. The warmth, for May, was very pleasant indeed. Outside, little breaking waves from a wind over tide situation added to the fun and a sprinkling of droplets flew across the bow from time to time. Half way across and off Allhallows I decided that, as time and tide would permit, I would dive into Yantlet Creek. The wind eased along the Kent shore but the old girl forged over the stiff flood nicely.
I swept past the Yantlet beacon, hardening up, into a stiff breeze sweeping across the flats, between me and the Medway, below Allhallows hill. I had to slip a tack in to clear the shell and shingle bar that almosts blocks this creek and swept round the bank so close that I could have almost stepped ashore, in 3m of water...
A man watching from the sea wall called, '...nicely done ... are you from the Island Yacht Club?' I thanked him first and gave the affirmative for the rest! He knew the club from earlier times - buying a boat from the creek some fifteen years ago. After sailing in for a short way I turned and ran back out on a broad reach. Passing the gentleman again we exchanged a few more words as the boat forged over the strong run past the shingle bank. He laughed, in agreement and wish, with my thoughts of, '...one day the channel will run through again...'
After clearing the beacon again I had a fantastic romp back across the Thames fairway, dodging ships and dredgers, berthing some 30 minutes after highwater. There were a few other sails out too, which added to the good feeling that filled my heart!
This week I have been working through all of the boat's sheets and halyards, washing them. Having run the pristine main, jib topping lift hoists through again (I keep an older set to do this) I kind of felt the need to test them out - as one does!
'Where shall I go?' were thoughts that tracked my mind. A thrash acoss the Thames to the Kent shore was the answer.
A group of club 'loafers' leaning on the handrails of the moorings watched as I sailed out of the creek. My mainsail had quickly followed the jib up as a remark came floating over the water, '...she's going well...' I grinned.
It was a sparkling sort of day. A strong sun was intermittently shaded by high broken cloud. The warmth, for May, was very pleasant indeed. Outside, little breaking waves from a wind over tide situation added to the fun and a sprinkling of droplets flew across the bow from time to time. Half way across and off Allhallows I decided that, as time and tide would permit, I would dive into Yantlet Creek. The wind eased along the Kent shore but the old girl forged over the stiff flood nicely.
I swept past the Yantlet beacon, hardening up, into a stiff breeze sweeping across the flats, between me and the Medway, below Allhallows hill. I had to slip a tack in to clear the shell and shingle bar that almosts blocks this creek and swept round the bank so close that I could have almost stepped ashore, in 3m of water...
A man watching from the sea wall called, '...nicely done ... are you from the Island Yacht Club?' I thanked him first and gave the affirmative for the rest! He knew the club from earlier times - buying a boat from the creek some fifteen years ago. After sailing in for a short way I turned and ran back out on a broad reach. Passing the gentleman again we exchanged a few more words as the boat forged over the strong run past the shingle bank. He laughed, in agreement and wish, with my thoughts of, '...one day the channel will run through again...'
After clearing the beacon again I had a fantastic romp back across the Thames fairway, dodging ships and dredgers, berthing some 30 minutes after highwater. There were a few other sails out too, which added to the good feeling that filled my heart!
Posted on 17 May 2011 by admin
I'm up and running...
At long last after being bashed about the head by family and friends I have got a web site... Long overdue many will murmer. My lovely mate has been badgering me too!
Below is a glorious view of Hadleigh Downs and the arena upon which the 2012 Olympic all terrain cycling event is to take place - the course can be seen. Lord Coe said, '...I can't think of a more spetacular setting for any event I have ever been too ... and I've been to many in my time...' Of course, those that live, work, walk and sail in the area have always known that! Look at this on the BBC Essex web site:
news.bbc.co.uk/local/essex/hi/people_and_places/.../8307056.stm
I have been hard at work completing the final preparations for depositing my next book with my publisher. It is planned for a launching before Christmas ... publisher said, '...get it to us before you go off sailing...' as I'd planned to drop it to them in September ... and they know my summer movements are profoundly around the boat! My mother. a very good artist, is busy with a raft of sketches that often pick out a mere snippet from which she generates a picture...
A few weeks ago I went over to Faversham to witness the launch of the rebuilt spritsail barge Cambria - what a sight. See photo on Dick Durham's blog on Yaching Monthly web site. She'll be sailing by June, it is hoped, and has been entered for the Medway barge match on Saturday 11th of June...
While there I took a picture of the Westmoreland: a bird had told me that she was to be refloated. A lottery grant is being applied for, for her rebuild. She is the very last 'brickie' a barge built to carry something like 40,000 to 48,000 bricks. She was built up Conyer Creek in 1900 for Eastwood Ltd. The barge lifted from her slumbers and has gone into a floating dock...
I have also been busy working on various articles. One, in the May edition of Yachting Monthly, is about a ditch-crawler's day out on the Edith May - a gloriously lovely barge based at Lower Halstow's old dock off the bottom of Stangate Creek. Articles have appeared in Anglia Afloat too. The latest in the May/June edition is about abandoned craft - in the saltings or at yards and marinas. www.angliaafloat.co.uk/heritage/historic-boats for earlier article.
Below is a glorious view of Hadleigh Downs and the arena upon which the 2012 Olympic all terrain cycling event is to take place - the course can be seen. Lord Coe said, '...I can't think of a more spetacular setting for any event I have ever been too ... and I've been to many in my time...' Of course, those that live, work, walk and sail in the area have always known that! Look at this on the BBC Essex web site:
news.bbc.co.uk/local/essex/hi/people_and_places/.../8307056.stm
I have been hard at work completing the final preparations for depositing my next book with my publisher. It is planned for a launching before Christmas ... publisher said, '...get it to us before you go off sailing...' as I'd planned to drop it to them in September ... and they know my summer movements are profoundly around the boat! My mother. a very good artist, is busy with a raft of sketches that often pick out a mere snippet from which she generates a picture...
A few weeks ago I went over to Faversham to witness the launch of the rebuilt spritsail barge Cambria - what a sight. See photo on Dick Durham's blog on Yaching Monthly web site. She'll be sailing by June, it is hoped, and has been entered for the Medway barge match on Saturday 11th of June...
While there I took a picture of the Westmoreland: a bird had told me that she was to be refloated. A lottery grant is being applied for, for her rebuild. She is the very last 'brickie' a barge built to carry something like 40,000 to 48,000 bricks. She was built up Conyer Creek in 1900 for Eastwood Ltd. The barge lifted from her slumbers and has gone into a floating dock...
I have also been busy working on various articles. One, in the May edition of Yachting Monthly, is about a ditch-crawler's day out on the Edith May - a gloriously lovely barge based at Lower Halstow's old dock off the bottom of Stangate Creek. Articles have appeared in Anglia Afloat too. The latest in the May/June edition is about abandoned craft - in the saltings or at yards and marinas. www.angliaafloat.co.uk/heritage/historic-boats for earlier article.
Posted on 11 May 2011 by admin
Thwack!
I took a friend sailing a few of weeks ago and I did something not done before...
It was cold...
Both of us were togged up to keep bitter breeze at bay (In just a short time those days seem so far away ... now the weather has been so warm and amiable. Ah, but, it returned to normal for the May BH Weekend!). Approaching the shore by Chalkwell I went to lift the centre plate ... with woolen gloved hands ... hand slipped off winch handle ... with a resounding thwack I was clobbered! I was lucky to still have my right index finger attached.
The mate said (later), 'How long do you want to carry on sailing...?' That all seems a long time ago now... However, it wasn't to stop me continuing with varnish preparations and, of course, sailing...
Then I had a web site launch glitch so this didn't get out to you!
It was cold...
Both of us were togged up to keep bitter breeze at bay (In just a short time those days seem so far away ... now the weather has been so warm and amiable. Ah, but, it returned to normal for the May BH Weekend!). Approaching the shore by Chalkwell I went to lift the centre plate ... with woolen gloved hands ... hand slipped off winch handle ... with a resounding thwack I was clobbered! I was lucky to still have my right index finger attached.
The mate said (later), 'How long do you want to carry on sailing...?' That all seems a long time ago now... However, it wasn't to stop me continuing with varnish preparations and, of course, sailing...
Then I had a web site launch glitch so this didn't get out to you!
Posted on 11 May 2011 by admin
April Fools Day. Wow! What a sail...
Here we go onwards into April.
Hanging the washing out on the line at home, I had thoughts of, 'It's too windy ... trees are swaying ... blustery ... grey sky...' seemed to fit the forecast - of a little 'iffy' but, undaunted, I had a spring in my step: I was going for it. The weatherman had said, '...17 deg during the afternoon...' too. A little wind wasn't going to fool me!
I slipped a reef in the mains'l before departure and as soon as the boat lifted I was away, running out of the creek under my jib. I rounded up off Canvey Point and ran the main up. bore away on a reach westwards up Hadleigh Ray. Some gusts, when off Two Tree Island, laid the boat over and water sluiced down the side decks... Exhilarating stuff. Cobwebs were washed away! A few tacks were needed to reach the bottom end of Benfleet YC's ground. A fast run out over the still incoming flood quickly took me out into the open for a thrash out to the West Leigh Middle Buoy... At times spray, from the westerly wind induced rollers, was thrown across the decks - both me and the boat revelled in it. I sailed in close to the Island YC's dinghy pontoon outside the club where lunch time tipplers were at work, then across to Leigh ... eventually tacking back up towards my creek's entrance, stowing sails and motoring in... Glorious.
There are still flocks of knot swooping about - they'll be gone soon and brents were feeding amongst the young shoots of cord grass. I'm waiting for the sight of a tern ... that'll signal the years change.
The days are noticeably lengthening out rapidly and the sun can be a warm old thing too. My cheeks are singing: I forgot to put sun block on. At times I saw its shape ... it showed from time to time too, but spent most of its time lurking behind a thin cloud layer. Sailing across the flats from Leigh, in no more than a metre and a half to two metres, the sun sprang forth. And shortly after berthing I enjoyed my lunch in the tranquility of a dying wind and that warm sunshine... Ah yes - April!
Hanging the washing out on the line at home, I had thoughts of, 'It's too windy ... trees are swaying ... blustery ... grey sky...' seemed to fit the forecast - of a little 'iffy' but, undaunted, I had a spring in my step: I was going for it. The weatherman had said, '...17 deg during the afternoon...' too. A little wind wasn't going to fool me!
I slipped a reef in the mains'l before departure and as soon as the boat lifted I was away, running out of the creek under my jib. I rounded up off Canvey Point and ran the main up. bore away on a reach westwards up Hadleigh Ray. Some gusts, when off Two Tree Island, laid the boat over and water sluiced down the side decks... Exhilarating stuff. Cobwebs were washed away! A few tacks were needed to reach the bottom end of Benfleet YC's ground. A fast run out over the still incoming flood quickly took me out into the open for a thrash out to the West Leigh Middle Buoy... At times spray, from the westerly wind induced rollers, was thrown across the decks - both me and the boat revelled in it. I sailed in close to the Island YC's dinghy pontoon outside the club where lunch time tipplers were at work, then across to Leigh ... eventually tacking back up towards my creek's entrance, stowing sails and motoring in... Glorious.
There are still flocks of knot swooping about - they'll be gone soon and brents were feeding amongst the young shoots of cord grass. I'm waiting for the sight of a tern ... that'll signal the years change.
The days are noticeably lengthening out rapidly and the sun can be a warm old thing too. My cheeks are singing: I forgot to put sun block on. At times I saw its shape ... it showed from time to time too, but spent most of its time lurking behind a thin cloud layer. Sailing across the flats from Leigh, in no more than a metre and a half to two metres, the sun sprang forth. And shortly after berthing I enjoyed my lunch in the tranquility of a dying wind and that warm sunshine... Ah yes - April!
Posted on 01 Apr 2011 by admin
Overnight to Queenborough in mid March
'Yes' my kid brother said, 'I'd like a sail ... any chance of an overnight...?' Well, I was a little taken aback and with warnings of what late winter can do we set it up - leave tickets quickly arranged...
It was indeed a wonderful period of weather we hit upon - fine and dry with temps up around 15 deg C. We hit the Medway entrance after a long reach across from the Ray Channel, a little to the east of my moorings: we'd completed an eastwards short leg first, and ran on into the West Swale ... the breeze first headed us then died entirely, just short of a mooring. Damn - the engine had to go on!
It was akin to a summer's day and a little later it allowed us to enjoy a pleasant beer in the cockpit before hightailing it ashore as the sun dipped beyond the skyline.
The Old House at Home provided a convivial welcome and after a short foray out to other beer sampling points we returned for a scrumptious supper. Of course, after returning, we partook of a little libation with the coffee and slept soundly.
Sunday was a peach. Little or no wind though. That, however didn't daunt us: we sailed off our mooring and reached, finally, the Grain Fort before power was applied from beneath our feet to ensure reaching home! By the pier off Southend a gentle breeze filled in and we sailed up to Smallgains Creek, dousing sails before continuing into the mooring...
My brother (Obviously no longer a kid ... but we all think like that in our protective ways...) thoroughly enjoyed his twenty-four hours and has booked his next berth!
The fine weather continued too ... for a whole week or more. I got off the mooring as often as other duties permitted and managed five days in seven. 'Lucky bugger Eh!'
Moments after berthing a couple of days after that weekend... Hadleigh Downs rise up in the haze beyond. Lord Coe and his merry men were on the hills the day after ... but the tide was too late for me to sail beneath their feet though ... but I did as a few stragglers walked the biking course!
It was indeed a wonderful period of weather we hit upon - fine and dry with temps up around 15 deg C. We hit the Medway entrance after a long reach across from the Ray Channel, a little to the east of my moorings: we'd completed an eastwards short leg first, and ran on into the West Swale ... the breeze first headed us then died entirely, just short of a mooring. Damn - the engine had to go on!
It was akin to a summer's day and a little later it allowed us to enjoy a pleasant beer in the cockpit before hightailing it ashore as the sun dipped beyond the skyline.
The Old House at Home provided a convivial welcome and after a short foray out to other beer sampling points we returned for a scrumptious supper. Of course, after returning, we partook of a little libation with the coffee and slept soundly.
Sunday was a peach. Little or no wind though. That, however didn't daunt us: we sailed off our mooring and reached, finally, the Grain Fort before power was applied from beneath our feet to ensure reaching home! By the pier off Southend a gentle breeze filled in and we sailed up to Smallgains Creek, dousing sails before continuing into the mooring...
My brother (Obviously no longer a kid ... but we all think like that in our protective ways...) thoroughly enjoyed his twenty-four hours and has booked his next berth!
The fine weather continued too ... for a whole week or more. I got off the mooring as often as other duties permitted and managed five days in seven. 'Lucky bugger Eh!'
Moments after berthing a couple of days after that weekend... Hadleigh Downs rise up in the haze beyond. Lord Coe and his merry men were on the hills the day after ... but the tide was too late for me to sail beneath their feet though ... but I did as a few stragglers walked the biking course!
Posted on 24 Mar 2011 by admin
Copy Right
All illustrations and material on this web site are the property and copy right of Nick Ardley, Author.
Posted on 01 Mar 2011 by admin
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