On a visit to my good ship, currently being worked on over in Faversham, I spotted one of Alan’s staff, Alison, working away during her lunch break… She was adding a plank or two to what looked like a large model of a sailing fishing craft of the late 1800s.

Alison by her model…

In very short time Alison soon explained all … the ‘model’ is a cradle for her sister’s expected new arrival…

Looking down on the boat’s upturned hull it clearly becomes obvious that this is not a ‘boat’… The beam is half her length – not a boat standard, unless you stray into modern cat hulls, etc.

Construction is in the modern screw and glue method (Same as the Barrow Boats – remember them?) with the fastenings being removed and filled. Alison has used ply planking. The keel is laminated… The care and attention to detail given is an ethos for what goes on in Alan’s yard – it is to be commended.

Bow view…

Close up of the little boat’s hull… The rockers were placed for my benefit. They will be glued, prior to completion.

Alison told me that the hull is partly derived from the beach type craft that once predominated, especially along the channel coast. It is an own design … maybe here lies a diversion for her future career?

If interested: contact Alison at Alan Staley’s Yard, Chambers Wharf, Faversham… Not sure if she’ll thank me for this!

I’d have loved one for our boy… So would my mate!