I was reminded recently soon after the latest RYA magazine fluttered through the letter box about seeing an autonomous vessel in Harwich Harbour.

The Autumn 2019 RYA magazine carries an article about an autonomous vessel crossing the North Sea this summer. The one in question sailed from West Mersea to Oostende in 22 hours with a ‘cargo’ of oysters. The operation was sponsored by UK’s Maritime & Coast Guard Agency, Department of Transport, Foreign & Commonwealth Office, the European Space agency and partners in Europe.

Photo of picture in RYA magazine – courtesy of RYA Magazine.

The vessel’s name is USV Maxlimer and was developed by Sea-Kit International of Tollesbury. The boat was built by Hushcraft Ltd in West Mersea and Tollesbury. Her base is said to be Maldon – amongst the fleet of Thames spritsail barges!

See:

https://www.hushcraft.com/sea-kit-docks-in-belgium-to-complete-first-ever-international-commercial-uncrewed-transit/

It was all carried out with the use of GPS using a Global Situational Awareness system via an internet feed allowing remote access to CCTV cameras and controls. Maybe some of you will have seen her about.

I didn’t!

But, I did see this one in Harwich Harbour. She was being ‘shepherded’ out of the harbour across The Shelf by an escort … as we sailed in. The boat’s name is Intrepid Barracuda. Where she was going I do not know. We didn’t hear anything on Harwich VTS, so assume was doing trials.

I did find this on line though…

https://www.abports.co.uk/media/aypp4aqj/abp-lowestoft-ntm-no-23-2019.pdf

So, there we are. She was on trial!

The Intrepid Barracuda in Harwich Harbour.

I am sure that in the future we will see far more of these types of vessel in our coastal waters. I am sure though that unlike some yachts (in particular) which seem to go about on an auto pilot in congested waters, the ‘real’ thing’s cameras will tell an operator or an interface that you are in its way!

I had an ‘incident’ in late August where a yacht kept on coming up our stern … only veering away as I made a course adjustment to prevent chance of a collision. There was a ‘bloke’ aboard in the cockpit, but he made no acknowledgement … roll on full automation!

As an ex sea going engineer officer who keeps abreast of things, I am aware of shipping developments – the Japanese are to trial an ocean voyage, a ore bulker, I believe to Australia…

Interesting developments.

I was busy working among the merry band of members at my yacht club yesterday (Saturday) at the weekend work party when I saw a boat in slings coming into a new section of yard we’ve taken over from a boat yard. We’re busy ripping out decrepit rickety finger jetties and rebuilding new sound ones – it has been a continuing job for over a year now, but progress is being made. The ‘powers to be’ have decided that the new yard will be used to lay up those boats which are either in long term lay up or seemingly approaching the abandonment point! It reminded me of something I saw which saddened me and my wife at a marina during the summer.

I know my last blog was about craft close to little hope of redemption, but all of us sailors must have seen craft afloat, that had the look of not being cared for.

So, how often do you look around as you wander back to your boat, after a shower say, with a chippy feeling that is curtailed as one’s eye catches the sight of a craft that has sat neglected for many months, if not longer?

The craft and its whereabouts will not be revealed, but I’m sure someone will recognise her, suffice to say I spotted her in the north of my east coast sailing grounds…

The mooring lines on the boat’s deck cleats caught my eye first. There is no way these had been removed and retied in many months – most probably last year or further into the past.

Mooring line solidified with verdigris…

Then my eye saw some of her fenders on the point dropping overboard due to frayed and sun rotted lines.

Rotting fender lines…

Then to a tangled mass of ‘congealed’ rope at the mast foot came into view … nothing in that lot had moved for a long time.

At the mast foot…

On the fore deck was another tangle with hanging coils of genoa sheet and mooring lines.

On the fore deck…

Walking along the mooring finger where this poor girl sat I saw that the growth on her rudder (she had two and the other was out of sight…) was so thick that it was clear she wouldn’t be able to go anywhere in a hurry: the bottom would be in same condition.

Hull growth…

During this summer, we had to beach Whimbrel on two occasions – the first to remove weed and copious layer of barnacles on the ‘flat’ bottom, and secondly, fresh weed growth around the wind/water area down to around half draft. For us, it is easy: we careen her over and get to it! It doesn’t take long on shingle of sandy bank and many people do this during their season. I remember an ‘old boy’ telling me up in the River Deben that he beached his boat three times in the sailing season for a scrub…

Whimbrel’s mate getting under…

I did note though that the vessel had been fitted with a clean mainsail cover and a modicum of cleaning had been done on deck with a scattering of ‘dropped’ tools, so, maybe, there is an owner about somewhere who has begun a long task…

I looked up on various sales sited for the class of boat seen and I was quite shocked. The list price for craft of her type dating to 2003-05 period ranged from £99,000 to £115,000. It caused me to swallow hard!

Apologies to the owner, if you should read this, but I was greatly saddened.

After the trials and tribulations of last summer and my subsequent treatment for prostate cancer, I decided during the spring of this year (with my good Mate’s agreement) to go wandering this summer.

The boat’s travels ranged from North Kent up to Iken Cliff on the River Alde, covering a few miles short of 700 n.miles during period away from home. The distance is modest against those that go on long coastal voyages in all probability, but for us it has been a pleasant meander. I’ll suffix that with an exception … being wind bound on two occasions – once in Titchmarsh for five whole days. Now Titchmarsh is a lovely marina, but amenities and stores are a good walk away!

However, my time cocooned from the worst of the high winds wasn’t wasted. I had a bit of a wander through what is euphemistically called the ‘graveyard’ by Titchmarsh Marina staff looking at the various craft that are at death’s door or close to it.

I came across a sad and forlorn looking Sea King – a 24-footer, I believe – which has clearly come to the end of her sailing days and will eventually find her way to a funeral pyre…

The Sea King Halcyon appears doomed…

Inside, her cabin still ‘glowed’ in varnished mahagany.

The cockpit was a mass of various bits including her rudder. Below her sails have clearly been rifled over and parts have already ‘walked’…

The boat’s stem clearly shows her main problem – ‘iron’ rot.

The Sea King is essentially a ‘grown up Dauntless’ – her lines and hull shape show this. It isn’t surprising for her creator, Reg Patten, served his time with the Dauntless Boatbuilders of Canvey Island.

Close by the Finesse 24, Halda, still languishes in a continual state of slow demise. Much equipment has been taken (purchased, I understand to offset unpaid charges) but a perfectly good centre plate winch is still bolted to the cockpit bulkhead! The deepness of keel and completely different hull lines created by Alan Platt can be seen – a proper little yacht!

Halda moulders on…

To one side of the yard where vessels seemed not quite ‘into’ the doomed category sat a collection of vessels – wood and glass – awaiting their owners’ return to continue refits. It was clear to me that for some this was going to be a forlorn wait. Green verdigris was spread in abundance.  I chanced upon a sweet little day racer – a bit like a dragon, and it could be (?). She had the enticing name – Victoria. I wonder what the monarch of that name would have thought! The poor boat is drying out badly…

A sweet little thing – her name is ‘Victoria’…

I passed a glass-fibre sloop with a notice of sale to redeem unpaid ground rent – there were a number of these about. Little chance of Titchmarsh recouping losses!

Close by sat a couple of deepsh draft cruisers – wooden, of course – that showed a great willingness to get on with it. But how many years ago was that, I wondered.

Work appears ongoing…

But is it too much? Planking has sprung!

Leaving that little area behind, I continued my wanderings … and stumbled upon this once fine looking open motor boat – a yacht tender perhaps, for reaching the mother ship out on distant moorings. These days virtually all vessels used for this purpose around the Walton Channel are either Rib types of GRP motor tenders, left to swing on moorings whilst the ‘mother’ is away.

I liked the look of this one!

A vessel with good solid shape, designed for load carrying. Her propeller was guarded by the tunnel – seen.

Her bow was pram-shaped with a rise not dissimilar to a scow.

Oh yes, her little petrol engine still awaits the attention of an engineer!

Arkle, seen below was another launch of a different pedigree, but nonetheless, functional. She had the look of a yacht club launch… She ‘aint’ going anywhere!

Arkle…

I walked on and I found before me the bow of a good looking motor-cruiser or weekender. She didn’t look too bad at first sighting, but as I walked round her, a tale of neglect followed. I think it highly unlikely that she ever had a cover fitted over all that open woodwork – a great shame for a small amount of outlay would have stalled this sort of nonsense!

Once a fine motor launch…

Hmmmmmm …… whatever happened about fitting a good cover?

Another thing noted was the use of what are essentially DIY timber such as plywood – a false economy afloat where weather can do its worst.

In the middle of ‘this lot’ sat a pretty little thing – a Silhouette I believe, or of the type. Work had clearly been carried out, but when wasn’t clear: green verdigris was taking hold. Maybe this is a stalled project…

A pretty little boat – Silhouette?

Repainted this year, or last, but seemingly un-cared for…

I was left wondering if she would still be in the same position the next time I was likely to be in the Walton Backwaters.

The next vessel seemed beyond the possibilities of a renewal. Hull planking was seen to be coming adrift, she has a crushed bilge and her internals were a picture of decay. The old launch has served her time in some harbour with day after day of hard graft, heavy use and probably a ‘she isn’t mine, so I don’t care about the knocks’ attitude. Sadly, a chainsaw and bonfire awaits…

Not a lot of hope, surely?

Crushed bilge…

My eyes then lit up as they alighted on a fine deep draft cruiser with the look of  one of those Littlehampton built yachts. Her hull sides have been prepared and the bottom cleaned off … but close inspection began to show why progress has stalled. Keel bolts looked as if attention was needed from the look of the ballast keel to timber join. Then there were areas of degradation around the stem and opening up around the planking ends to stern post…

Some hope?

I cast my eyes towards the deck line – trouble was afoot. Open deck edges. Partially stripped cabin sides and missing window furniture in a sea of ‘green’ growth. Initial thoughts were squashed!

Fast drying out…

Some weeks later my good Mate gave up her place so that I could take a New Zealand friend sailing. The chap asked me soon after he’d arrived in Essex back in May if it would be possible to get him to the River Ore and Alde in Suffolk. I said, ‘Yes, weather and God willing…’ Starting from Bradwell on the River Blackwater, it happened. That tale is another story though…

We stopped off at the Aldeburgh Yacht Club for showers, after which we walked into the town past Slaughden Quay – once a busy and prosperous place before it was all bu washed away centuries ago – but I stopped by Demon Yachts, a yard situated on the edge of the town, and saw a couple of boats advertised as being for sale. Both are ‘projects’ and much would be needed to finish them. Most of all a willingness…

The first was a vessel 117 years old – a Whitewing, a local class boat. Her hull looked in a precarious condition, however, the planking looked ‘good’. The advert spoke of a ‘group ownership’ or of a single benefactor to complete…

As I say, true willingness is essential!

117 year old White Wing Nona…

The details…

Are you the one to do it?

The next looked less of a challenge and is a lovely sleek looking thing. The long double-ender was originally built as a gentleman’s launch. In time she had clearly gained a rig: the ‘irons’ are still fitted.

Lovely looking thing…

The vessel was built by Camper & Nicholson, but no date was given on her details. Of all the vessels I saw at the two yards, this one seemed the most likely to find a buyer. She’d certainly repay an expense, surely…

The  details…

Now, up and down the coast many of you can probably find similar craft in very similar states of disrepair or neglect. It is something I get ‘bothered’ about and generally come away full of sadness. It is the same for wooden and GRP craft. All were once loved and cosseted. Age has wearied them, but for many much life remains.

I know an owner of a Finesse 24 who obtained the ownership of his little sloop for the nominal sum of £500 – admittedly, he has accepted the undertaking of a little over £2000 of repair work, and that will probably grow… But, for a around £3000 he will gain a superb coastal cruiser, safe enough to wander the east coast and provide a ‘home’ for the summer (as I do on Whimbrel!)

There are a myriad of GRP craft sitting on yard hard standings which with a dose of elbow grease would scrub up. Defects can be fixed.

What has to be remembered is that for a small outlay a first time cruiser owner could get afloat for a relatively small cost, if the heart strings can be pulled … instead of paying out 1000’s of pounds sterling for a modern expensively built vessel with supposedly superior pedigree.

I’ve looked at modern 24-footers, their costs are frightening and their supposed spacious interiors are nothing of the sort in comparison to my Finesse 24 … I wouldn’t touch ’em with a barge pole…

My continuing ‘Prostate Story’…

See for earlier blogs: https://nickardley.com/ditch-crawler-sails-onward-radio-therapy-done-with-freshly-antifouled-we-chased-barges-on-the-medway-2019-match/

Time ran on nicely as we pottered around the rivers Blackwater, Colne and subsidiary creeks, but in the back of my mind was my looming appointment for the first post radio therapy check up.

We had a few days at home – a 20/20 cricket match at the Oval with ‘the boy’, a blood test and a ‘family do’ all fortuitously coinciding. Returning to the boat we continued to potter before ‘high-tailing’ to Southend Hospital from Bradwell Marina (Handy having a car u there!) for my appointment.

After a longish wait … 30 minutes … I was in.

Less than five minutes later, after answering questions about loo visits, pooh problems and other stuff – like telling the youngish lady that everything was still working – I was out, clutching a fresh blood test form. Around my head buzzed the news that my PSA count has fallen to virtually ZERO.

Christobel heaved then cried. I was somewhat choked…

Very good news indeed…

I go for a further test in a little over three months.

Since then we left the sheltered waters of Essex’s middle rivers and made passage for Pin Mill with the weather fair…

Departing a little after four in the morning (a few days ago) we had a quiet motor-sail, with barely a mile under sail alone for the 27 mile trip.

Yes folks. Diesel was burnt!

We’re now pottering in the Walton Backwaters …

Today we sailed up into Oakley Creek and viewed many seals – it doesn’t matter how many times one sees them the allure never fades. The colony was seen basking way off in the distance round the inside of Garnham’s Island.

Sailing up Oakley Creek … note the coaster up at wharf.

Seals in Oakley Creek.

Leaving the seals we sailed into the Walton Channel, initially to anchor, but a squally period set us heading further up to find a vacant buoy. We found these to be numerous … and picked one under the west saltings edge.

Sailing into the Walton Channel across the top…

Once moored, I had tome to look around. To our amazement a group of dinghies of mixed classes came sailing out, tacking and gybing round two buoys local to us…

A series of ‘dinghy’ pictures follow…

Boisterous conditions can be seen!

Up, up and away…

Oooooops!

On the mud

And in the saltings…

A close encounter…

Tomorrow we plan to anchor Whimbrel in the shallows off Stone Point around two hours before low water, careen the ‘ol girl and scrub her bottom: I have seen weed growing happily on the rudder out of reach below the waterline. From experience we both knew what was coming. The Mate, Christobel, is so looking forward to it…

The call of a laundry can be heard from our washing bag, so later tomorrow will see us in Titchmarsh Marina.

That last picture ‘A close encounter…’ resonates with my thoughts currently. Part, a blessed joy in having got through this last year with a psa level first at 13.6 and now ‘0’, and of relief, an overwhelming relief, at where I am now …

But for the Grace of God go I.

My thoughts are with those who I know are currently undergoing treatment. For one ‘old boy’ his prognosis isn’t good, but for another it should be.

Favourable journey’s chaps…

 

 

This time last year was an extremely hard time for me, Christobel, ‘the boy’, as well as for my family and friends. That is all history now…

I was reminded of it all (as if one needed to be) upon meeting a boat at Brightlingsea with a nice couple aboard. They’d once ‘stopped me’ whilst I was sailing about in my dinghy in Stangate Creek. After ranging alongside we had a long chat about my various books … later I had a request by email for this and that.

Any way, I told them I’d been ‘quiet’ for a while dealing with prostate cancer – sadly, the lady’s brother has also got the disease. Unfortunately, she said, he’d not reacted to ‘pee’ problems and didn’t do so until aches in his hips appeared. The chap is undergoing treatment, but the prognosis isn’t good.

There by the Grace of God go I…

I set out this summer to have a bit of a ball, helped by my willing Mate Christobel, one in ‘letting’ the summer go (again) and in giving up her berth to various family and friends whilst they enjoyed some sailing too. Family are all done – one more friend, an Old Leigh Boy residing in New Zealand over for a long visit, is booked for late August.

Cousin Roger and youngest brother, Andrew, romping towards the Swin Spitway in June…

Two good sailing companions sailed with me aboard on a ‘delivery’ trip to Bradwell – essentially a ‘Jolly Boys’ outing with stops at Queenborough and Brightlingsea on the way. We had fun.

Christobel met us and took both boys to the station at Southminster where they began a long and arduous bus trip to Shenfield due to track works!

With the middle part of the week to ourselves we decided to ‘pop’ up to Colchester. We’ve sailed up and away many times, but never stopped…

Arriving in Colchester…

Whimbrel can be seen in the distance beyond the ‘light vessel’ berthed outside of a motor cruiser at the floating pontoon alongside King Edward Quay.

We enjoyed a wander into Colchester transiting the Hythe ‘village’ – fascinating and the main street is loaded with ‘Tudor’ buildings still very much in use.

Hythe – a little gem…

Leaving Colchester we sailed down river to Brightlingsea to join up with eleven other Finesse craft for ‘our’ annual rally. This was the best in numbers since the rally was inaugurated eight years ago.

Rally boats alongside the Heritage Pontoon, Brightlingsea.

The following weekend saw us sailing into Maldon to help celebrate the official launch of the Sea-change Sailing Trust barge, Blue Mermaid’s official launch – see earlier blog.

Cocky sprits seen from the ‘bargemen’s’ church on the hill above Maldon’s Hythe…

In a period before the planned take-over of Whimbrel by my sister and two lovely friends we had time round outside Tollesbury, within Lawling Creek and round in the rivers Crouch and Roach, enjoying generally good sailing weather – some diesel had to be used…

Running towards Burnham…

Christobel went home the day before my next crew joined … she was on (our) church cleaning duty and had also volunteered to assist at a community fayre! A visit to a London exhibition and three day jaunt ‘up north’ visiting her old town of Royal Leamington Spa (much changed) and going onto Stratford to see a Shakespeare play, kept her occupied…

My trip with my sister Theresa and friends Hannah and Steve took us to Brightlingsea, Pin Mill (& Suffolk Yacht Harbour), Harwich, the Walton Backwaters, West Mersea and the return to Bradwell…

Sunrise on way up to Pin Mill…

Playing with the cruising chute – Naze into Harwich Harbour…

On a glorious grey day sail from Harwich to West Mersea…

A couple of hours after that week’s crew had departed, my dear wife returned, laden with fresh stores…

My dear wife, Christobel, happily at the helm…

A few days at home approached when I’d re-met the boating couple in Brightlingsea: it was a reminder.

Back in early June, I’d got a blood test pre-booked in readiness for a visit to hospital to see the prostate cancer specialist. The sample has been taken and my appointment awaits during the coming week. Am I worried, a little yes, I’d be lying to say I’m not. Whatever, I plan to continue enjoying life, love and the world about me…

The sun sets on main treatment phase…

So, as the sun sets on my main treatment phase (hopefully), I am reminding all men who haven’t had a prostate test, don’t leave it until pains elsewhere drive you towards a surgery. Be proactive. I was and had had the disease for several unknown years…

Earlier this year Christobel and I received an invitation to attend the official launch of the Sea-change Sailing Trust’s new Thames spritsail barge, Blue Mermaid. The barge is a ‘faithful’ replica of the original sunk by a magnetic mine during WW2. Her remains sit somewhere near the old position of the West Hook Middle Buoy n the Swin. Soon, with the help of the Port of London Authority, a diver will retrieve a fragment of that vessel which will be preserved and kept aboard the new barge in memory of the crew who perished.

The Blue Mermaid viewed from West Mersea…

Yesterday, whilst ambling back to the waterfront in West Mersea, I spotted the new barge majestically sailing out past Sales Point over on the Bradwell Shore. For me it was a moment of magic: although the barge has been sailing for a couple of months – working up – I had not seen her in such guise.

My old family home, the Thames spritsail barge May Flower, was sailing in the Swin close by the Blue Mermaid when she was blown up. May Flower’s crew sailed round the area looking for survivors … for this reason, I have long held an affinity to the Blue Mermaid Project and, more importantly, for the work of the Sea-change Trust.

So, a little over a week ago now, on a delightful July morning we sailed into Maldon and berthed at one of the local yards.

The stern of the Blue Mermaid and bow of the Reminder, true sisters… 

I captured a view of the Blue Mermaid’s stern with the bow of the Reminder outboard … identical sisters separated by around ninety years. Later I walked past, along Maldon’s Hythe, for a look … the mate and some apprentices were hard at work making things spic and span – one burnishing the binnacle!

The Blue Mermaid’s topsail set for the ceremony…

Walking towards the Hythe on the day, the sight of the Blue Mermaid’s topsail set proudly aloft among  the cocky sprits of her sisters brought a lump to my throat. This was truly an very historic occasion. Although there has been one other barge built in recent years, she was specifically for use as a home and yacht – Defiance – a reincarnation of a Medway river barge (less a metre removed from her aft end to comply with ‘yacht’ rules). Another is the Snark. The classification of these two remains a mystery to me … it appears they’re ‘not’ barges, but yacht barges, a term not often used these days.

The Blue Mermaid’s topsail, by the way, has been sponsored by the Maldon Little Ship Club in a ten year sponsorship – a mighty impressive deed.

Trust supporters in conversation…

On the Hythe, people milled, chatting, admiring and toasting the fine vessel.

All aboard!

At some predetermined point, it fell to Chair of Trustees, Hilary Halajko, to propose the vessel’s blessing – the man of God who was supposed to have attended was apparently unavailable to to sickness…

There were thanks to supporters … sponsors … for kind deeds and everyone for coming along was followed by distribution of bouquets to various – Catherine Dines represented the Heritage Marine Yard (Downs Road) in the absence of Jim. Hilary herself wasn’t forgotten too!

Hilary Halajko making her speach.

A ‘talk’ was given too … but lost me when the line ran into similarities with Gordonstone School … absolutely nothing to do with the ethos and reasons behind ‘Sea-change’!

Speeches over, the vessel was suitably toasted, and a buffet was opened for people to partake of refreshment. This was all hosted by the Maldon Little Ship Club led by Commodore Stubbs. The buffet was the ‘baby’ of his wife Cally, an enthusiastic crew member of a barge herself.

The buffet spread…

Supporters and guests enjoying the rather tasty provisions…

Having enjoyed a few nibbles, Christobel and I went aboard the Blue Mermaid. We’ve been aboard many times over the past two years and watched all the changes from a bare steel shell to a fully fitted out and rigged sailing machine. There are still a few jobs to do … there is with any vessel, but she’s here, in use and doing the trust’s work.

From this on launch day at Toms Yard, Polruan, Cornwall…

To this…

 

Above deck, the barge is complete… Below, a little still needs to be done – varnishing the aft cabin companionway bulkheads for instance was noticeable. But to all intents and purposes she is finished. There follows what are essentially self explanatory pictures around the ‘ship’…

 

The ‘swept hold’ is home to fold away bunks – trainees, clients and extra crew.

The forward 4-berth unit to starboard.

The well appointed galley located under the aft waist deck.

To port of the galley is another 2-berth cabin.

The skipper and mate’s cabin, aft. ‘The cuddy’ – one day I hope (with sibling approval) the barge can have May Flower’s double burner cabin lamp, still a precious item of my mother’s…

A few cups gained in early barge match forays, builder’s plaque from Toms of Polruan, and notable contributors board…

As I was going ashore I spotted Don Ramsay going aboard – a key man in the workings of the Trust as administrator and head fund raiser…

Kindly Don…

I had a brief chat with the Toms Yard representative … we had chatted at the Blue Mermaid’s launch and at her safe arrival in Maldon. She was essentially ‘gob-smacked’ by the huge changes from the bare hull built at the family yard … yes, I think we all are!

‘Toms’ and Richard Titchener, Chief Executive Officer and Skipper chatting…

A very long time ago back in 2005 I wrote in my book, The May Flower a barging Childhood, published in 2007, at the end of chapter 1, detailing ‘where’ barges are now and the future, whilst discussing the fact that modern yachts are built with the rigs of their forbears whether it be a Bemudian of gaff and finished by saying:

‘if the future barge is a new steel one, the most important aspect is its rig and how it is used.’

The Sea-change Sailing Trust has built an ethos working with young people who are falling through the net, people with dementia, schools, sailability and provision of a seafaring training. This is all coupled with plans to carry a cargo, but the main aim is to achieve aims against the elements of tide and wind under sail … on the way a youngster who fails to understand the need for mathematics will learn chart work and along the way discover mathematics…

The Trust is to be commended…

How many of you walk past moored craft in a harbour and DON’T look around at the craft around you?

I suspect, not many and like me you pass an eye over them, quizzically or otherwise.

The point I would like to make is that one sees an awful lot of craft, traditional especially, where a lot of work has been carried out. Varnishing for instance where the wood has been stripped back, sanded and varnish applied. Maybe two, three or even four coats. The applier (owner in the main) looks back with a satisfied smile and walks away, complimenting himself on a job well done.

Then, how often do you see ripped, badly fitting covers, or no cover at all over varnished wood?

P.S. Badly fitting covers was written about last autumn… See: https://nickardley.com/ditch-crawler-goes-west/

 

Whimbrel’s set of covers…

Yes, well!

With respect to varnish, yachting magazines go into the number of coats required on bare wood at great length, from time to time. My maxim rests at around eight to ten as a minimum … less means redoing the following season!

When there are a number of small areas stripped back it is easy to loose track – I’ve done it and following season found just a few coats on ‘an area’ forgotten about with a ‘peeling’ coating…

I pencil the coat number against areas stripped back up to ‘9’ here!

Cabin sides could be protected, of course, but it is an unusual sight in summer and is usually when a boat is under a winter cover. I have seen ‘all over’ covers though, and cabin side canvas protectors… Hatches and cockpits are a different matter. I leave Whimbrel’s hatch protection covers on from September to May. During autumn weekends away they get removed, for tidal sails, no.

Whimbrel’s hatch covers.

This one caught my eye recently…

Another well fitting cover…

So often an owner will expend huge effort in stripping, say a hatch, cabin sides and other areas such as rubbing strakes. Below are two examples of such efforts going to waste … in fact the work requires to be carried out all over again!

Both pictures make me sad…

 

The point about coating numbers is clearly made in the following example. The varnish or similar protective/decorative coating was applied and has not been re-applied at the intervals advised by coating manufacturer. net result – a mess!

Case of insufficient coats…

In the following example an owner has been busy applying additional coats of varnish to wood that had been stripped back. The vessel, a Finesse 24, had been for sale in a Swale-side yard for a number of years. During that time she’s been ashore, but fully covered. Wrapped to her waterline almost! I found her recently soon after her sale to her new owner.

The chap, a lovely Irishman, told me the previous owner had stripped down the cabin sides and sheerstrake some years ago. He’d clearly applied sufficient varnish, albeit she was covered – from memory the boat has been out of water for at least seven years. I learnt too that the old owner even gave the woodwork an additional coat as part of the ‘sale’ deal…

For Finesse aficionados, the boat, Quo Vadis, is staying local for time being…

The boat’s new owner has been adding further coats in between completing hull preps for painting. I received a message a few days ago saying full coats of undercoat were in hand…

A lot of work is involved with stripping back and prepping – here an owner kept his boat fully covered…

Oh, and to finish. I recently sailed into Faversham with my dear wife Christobel: we like going there, but essentially to pick up a new cover for Whimbrel’s mainsail. The new sails are bulkier than our old ones and have a greater covering need … so thank you Wilkinson Sails … my sketch was bang on and your interpretation fits like a glove!

A new sail cover that does what it is supposed to do…

Whimbrel’s tender, Twitch, is twenty-five years old this year … her woodwork has been regularly varnished and when not in use the dinghy is covered: she cost quite a lot of money and unprotected she would have long had her day…

Dinghies too need caring for!

My sincere apologies to the owners of the craft used to illustrate my blog … please take the hint!

My previous post had a little film clip of me sailing on the morning of my last radio therapy session – the hospital staff were very impressed!

Link: https://nickardley.com/ditch-crawler-sails-into-last-radio-therapy-session/

On the morning my end session was due, I wasn’t sure whether to be excited or thankful. I think every emotion would fit: it’s been a testing time in many ways. Christobel has been an absolute brick, the ‘boy’ too… I have to admit, I consumed more hooch during the process than normal for a six week period, but what the hell!

Many friends, contacts and family members have also been of supreme help in boosting morale and ‘speaking’ soothing words … thank you all.

Strangely it was only during the last couple of weeks that I really felt weakened by it all. It had become increasingly difficult to complete more than a 5 mile walk. Our ‘normal’ hour long walk had become a trial, eventually with me suffering a complete loss of energy half way through on several occasions necessitating rest!

Over breakfast we spotted that one of the pair of blue tits nesting in the new box I made in the autumn seemed to busier than just feeding ‘the mate’. Clearly the young were beginning to hatch. Wow, what a sign – new life! I managed to snap the bird, resting briefly on the nest box perch.

A momentarily resting blue tit…

It was a quick breakfast: I’d already decided upon a sail. My good shipmate and dear wife, Christobel, was going to take the morning out. A walk and catch up with friends at our church’s coffee morning – which we usually pass ‘through’ on a Wednesday walk of around 5 miles…

It was a glorious morning, sparkling sun glistening on the water and a light south-easterly. I motor-sailed out, knowing I’d probably enjoy a run in under head sail into the mooring later, and set off long and short tacking down the Ray channel until far enough east not to be concerned about depth.

Terns had arrived from distant parts since last out … always a joy to see.

Eventually, I reached The Crowstone and put the boat about for a run along the Chalkwell and Leigh Shore. It was so lovely … I so wished that my shipmate was afloat with me … later she’d wished it too!

Running, goose winged, from The Crowstone.

Time soon ran on too, but towards the top of the tide, the wind freshened a little. Some distance from the creek’s entrance the mainsail was stowed, fenders tied and I sipped some tea as the boat glided over the early ebb, inwards… The mooring soon approached. At the right moment, a hop forward, down head sail, back aft and the dear boat slipped gracefully into her berth.

With just a few butterflies beginning to buzz around my innards, I settled and sorted the boat before heading back ashore and home.

Gliding home…

I was met by Christobel … it was time for a quick bite, before getting my head down for an hour or so … my mate had long stopped shepherding me to the bedroom!! The loss of energy and tiredness could only be assuaged by rest/sleep… Upon waking, a loo visit then begin drinking water to ensure a full bladder by time of appointment.

During the six weeks, I have had to ‘go’ and begin water intake all over again when the appointment has been delayed. 20 minutes was fine … 1/2 an hour, dodgy, and once when over an hour I’d held on, diving straight to the loo afterwards! Upon arrival, I was sent straight round to a different unit, expecting a delay, I stopped drinking … but, wow, I was called straight in. Nearly 10 minutes early!

The lady radiologist said as we went through, ‘You know this is your last one…’

I nodded. She gave me a big hug, saying, ‘I’ll be listening for the bell…’

Blast, I thought, as I was hoping to give it a miss!

The two on duty, a chap and lady, both of whom I’d seen many times chatted away with me as they got the ‘position’ right … me telling them of my morning sail, then, off they went.

The scanner head went round … the table jiggled … the treatment head did its two revolutions, back and forth. (Note it can’t keep going, ‘cos the power and control cables won’t allow – I’d asked that question some while before, being inquisitive…)

It was all done. Two more hugs … out to the control office … another hug from lady who had also attended on some sessions … on out to an astonished Christobel. Done, 5 minutes after my appointed time.

Ringing the bell…

That evening we went out for a meal and celebrated after a glass of something and some canapes watching the coming and goings of our blue tits…

On the Friday evening the ‘boy’ came in for a celebratory glass of ‘shampoo’…

Time moved on … on the Sunday after, I managed to nail our boy down for a sail he says he’s long been owed! I’ve told him he can come along any time, a weekend even … but his life is a busy one. It was a chilly sail, but we enjoyed a spanking sail up to the Benfleet Barrier by the Dauntless Yard, enjoying a pleasant run for home.

The ‘boy’ in charge: I was relegated to deckhand!

A long term project to obtain new u-bolts for Whimbrel’s rigging set up is approaching fruition. All three of ‘us’ Finesse owners at the Island Yacht Club are doing this. One of the others took it upon himself to find a manufacturer for they’re not of a standard length. In the mean time, I completed making pads upon which the new U-bolts will be bedded. They’re made from Iroko.

This is something other Finesse owners might be interested in … a boat, Quo Vadis, up for sale for a long time at Conyer has just found a new owner. water ingress has caused deck and deck shelf/carlin problems.

Pad making – top and bottom.

The planned and ordered u-bolts…

One afternoon, whilst ‘resting’, I corrected a second set of new charts…

Chart correcting…

Then, just a week after my last session, we put Whimbrel onto the club hard for her annual bottom clean and anti-fouling coatings. My good Mate did the bulk of the jet washing, final scraping and cleaning of the propeller … I hasten to add, my task was to redo the sheer strake and rudder varnish work and look at the bottom hull fittings. The boot top was cut into the hull paint work. The hull paintwork was touched up here and there … in between the underwater parts of the rudder needed several coats of primer too … my job too!

Christobel doing what she loves best! Note the glistening varnish above…

 

Above – the cutting in of boot top.

All done … Whimbrel waiting for the tide.

The boat was got back onto her mooring for one night, then we were off for a weekend – the bank holiday one at the end of May.

Over on the River Medway, it was Medway regatta weekend and the annual barge match was taking place. The Friday run across the Thames turned into a 2 hour motor sail due to lack of wind, although on the Essex side there’d been a good breeze. We were able to sail from the fort into Queenborough though!

We set off promptly on Saturday morning to sail upriver to meet the first of the barge fleet, then ‘chase’ out towards the Thames estuary. Christobel produced bacon sandwiches shortly after our departure … they were delicious.

The barge fleet approached with a clear leader, Niagara, with the Ironsides and Edith May seemingly enjoying a private competition behind. The indomitable bowsprit class Edme was close behind, working through the fleet of stay sail class and ‘coasters’. At the finish, the order was little different!

Edith May kept coming up on the Ironsides, overlapping and falling behind again … it was amusing to watch!

The lovely Marjorie and the powerful Adieu seem to like keeping close company…

We sailed out towards the Grain Edge buoy before turning back. Soon the fleet of eleven stately sailormen had all passed. It wouldn’t be long before the first reached the Medway No. 1 buoy and began heading for home … and I, in particular, wanted to be up near the finish line off Gillingham to see the first home!

Inside we passed close by Doris owned by a friend.

We met dozens of large yachts in an ‘inside’ race followed by dragons and squibs.

Whimbrel healing to the afternoon breeze as we rounded Darnet Ness…

What a splendid sight – the Edme in Gilligham Reach, tacking for the line…

Poppy, a gunter rigged Hunter – a pretty boat owned by two friends…

From one of the race yachts passing close by us in Saltpan Reach floated a cheery shout … ‘Nick .. you writing another book?’

‘Why,’ I called, adding, ‘Did you enjoy the others?’ An enthusiastic answer drifted back. I called out to the fast passing craft, ‘Maybe…’

‘Good!’ was all I heard. And the ‘faceless’ questioner and clearly a fan, disappeared astern.

No pressure then…

We berthed on the inner side of the Medway Yacht Club’s visitor pontoon at the suggestion of a boatman, who helped  us in…

During the later part of the afternoon, I prepared our supper of chicken with cider and cracked pepper corns> When nearly cooked it was left to soak in its juices whilst we popped ashore for a beer at the club. It was a busy place with the milling crews of yachts and the big class day boats as well as the barges – all getting set for a long evening…

Enjoying ‘afters’ – a lovely bottle of red and a selection of cheeses sent to me by a cousin. Thanks Roger & Judy x

On the Sunday we enjoyed a spanking run down river to Queenborough. It was a little breezy, but nothing ‘inside’ – we later heard that some yachts had sailed back to Essex, in quite lumpy conditions. Silly!

We popped ashore for some stores then I was pointed to the bunk for a sleep … the mate read for a while.

Later over tea, we enjoyed an entertaining afternoon watching the movements of various craft. The local 4-oared skiff was out too, and a single hovercraft appeared, swinging off the tideway and over the mud – watched by the harbour launch!

Goose winged down Long Reach … it was busy!

A relaxed Christobel…

Afternoon tea…

Part of our entertainment!

I did get to the Admiral’s Arm and enjoyed a pickled egg too…

The homeward passage on the bank holiday was pleasant and uneventful, sailing off the mooring.

So, how do I feel?

Relieved, pleased, happy, sincerely grateful for the care shown by the oncology teams, it is difficult to put into a single word. Mostly, I’m just so happy that I’ve come through this part of my treatment – a rather large part for sure – with few if any real problems. When I sit and think about all the pro’s and con’s I’d read about last summer and how frightened I was, the current position is a blessing: everything works ‘normally’, whatever that is!

Christobel said something to me during the last week which was so touching and so special. It was what one can only say is love. The ‘what’ will remain ‘what’ for it was only ours to share … bless you darling. xx

I am thankful too for all the messages of support, love and good wishes, from all and sundry – many of whom don’t really ‘know’ me. That too has been a blessing. And, today as I write after depositing some stores aboard Whimbrel, I can relate that an ‘old salt’ stopped me down the creek to ask how things were … he said that last autumn, he thought, ‘You were a gonna…’

I told him what the oncologist had said … ‘I’ll not beat about the bush, another year, two at the most, and …’ It hurts to write it, so I’ll leave it there.

But I know now that I’ve probably escaped.

In July’s edition of Yachting Monthly is a piece written by Dick Durham, a monthly columnist – read it!

Copied from July 2019 edition of  Yachting Monthly.

 

On the last day of my radio therapy for prostate cancer, I enjoyed a fabulous sail…

See: https://www.facebook.com/nick.ardley/videos/pcb.1089499444593655/1089457137931219/?type=3&theater

It was just the tonic needed!

See earlier posts:

Ditch-crawler moves smoothly into second half of radio therapy…

 

Yes, I have reached half way, well, I have gone over the line now by a couple of days!

It feels good, I feel good and most of all, Christobel is so, so, pleased. Bless her cotton socks (or should I say, many coloured legs, which she favours! But, bless her, she is feeling as tired as I am, and those that continue to offer support, I am most grateful indeed.

A few days ago I cleaned out the forward bilge on Whimbrel and then the gas stowage. After coats of primer, stripe coating and a final overall coating, both are much more presentable.

Forward bilge…

Another important area: with a drain line (and valve) it gets wet when sailing hard!

I had to obtain more paint – red, as you can see – but found that the red bilge has been ‘done away’ with by the more common paint manufacturers. This means that at some time in the near future Christobel and I will have to come ashore for a period and hard clean, scrape, sand, and re-coat in something different. Grey most likely. Why do ‘they’ do this?

My thoughts run along doing areas ‘clear’ of the bilge proper in stages, afloat…

Hey ho!

Yesterday, with tide times not conflicting with the all important hospital run, I got away for a sail. My good ship mate didn’t come: independent therapy is good for both, but afterwards Christobel said she’d rather have come along: it was glorious!

Sailing back into Smallgains Creek. The Genoa was dropped nearer to mooring and boat sailed in under mainsail. Lovely.

The mainsail had its first airing under sail since being serviced by Wilkinson Sails.

But this is more about radio therapy: I feel an ‘old hand’ now … I have ‘got over’ the lateness of being called in sometimes … for this means that another has needed more time to be treated. One soon realises that ‘your’ condition isn’t the most severe!

The problem with being called late is that it was ‘drummed’ into us men at a pre-treatment briefing that we had to arrive READY to go. That is, with a full bladder. So, added time is like trying to squeeze another half pint in before actually going – but you can’t! It is bleeding well stressful…

The empathy of the staff though exceeds all expectations (whatever they are) and a smiling face asks if all is okay, are you alright (No, I’m in pain actually…) and if you need to ‘go’ leak a little and drink a little more… I have had to do that twice!

Ah, but when you are called. Bliss. You move into a ‘waiting zone’ and as the previous patient comes out you go in. The greetings from a duo or sometimes a trio of smiling caring faces causes an immediate relaxation sensation coursing through ones inner self: once on the ‘slab’ it would only be 10 minutes before the relief would come!

I admire the band of (mostly) happy ladies at Southend, they’re a Godsend, from whatever religion they adhere to, and I bless them all, ‘cos they raise my spirits…

Enjoying a pint down at The Billet, in Old Leigh at the end of a week of treatments … cheers!

Link to previous blogs…

Ditch-crawler settles into his radiotherapy sessions…

 

Finesse 24, Snowgoose

I have learnt that Snowgoose has not yet been sold yet. There was interest from a chap who contacted for advice, but he decided against.

She’s a nice looking boat. She’s out of the water … her owner lives in Guernsey and is listed with the Finesse Group but with no contact details.

Snowgoose was built in 1973 and will be have a Mahogany hull with either Rock Elm or oak ribs.

Price has been dropped: she is stacking up charges!

See: https://lancashire.boatshed.com/finesse_24-boat-252521.html?utm_source=newsnow.co.uk

 

Our maintenance of Whimbrel has continued whilst I have been ‘popping off’ to Southend Hospital for daily sessions of radiation for my prostate cancer treatment. I finished getting the bad areas around the cabin sides and rubbing band coated a sufficient number of times then on Good Friday afternoon (after doing a Walk of Witness in Hadleigh) we hard sanded the cabin sides and Christobel washed down several times … we were ready to varnish.

Sanding the cabin sides…

A few days earlier we had enjoyed a couple of ‘on the tide’ sails which makes foregoing on sailing on days such as we’ve enjoyed for nearly a week over Easter ‘acceptable’ for one has to, like marriage have some give and take!

They were lovely sails in gentle breezes and sunshine. Sailing out of our creek I spotted a grebe and out across the Leigh Flats a seal popped up behind us and swam along in our wake … I was just too late with the camera. Hey ho. The Brent geese are still very much in residence and won’t be gone until end of May or even early June, but although it is mid April now, I haven’t spotted any terns yet. I expect the next time Whimbrel has the chance to venture forth, they’ll be on ‘their’ favoured perches around the creek’s entrance and atop mooring buoys…

Sailing along the Chalkwell shore towards Old Leigh.

Sailing into the creek … note, old mains’l and new jib set.

The wind being kindly entering our creek on the last of our two trips, we sailed onto the mooring dropping main, just off, and sailed on under jib. I then removed the old mainsail which has been in use since the ‘new’ sails went back for guarantee servicing at and bent on the serviced ‘new’ one. It has still to be stretched in anger though!

Old mainsail  spread out for folding and bagging.

Cabin sides washed ready for a white spirit wipe for varnishing…

On the Saturday of the Easter weekend after ‘slaving’ down at our yacht club rebuilding a finger jetty mooring, we motored over to Maldon for lunch and a walk round. I found a fellow Finesse 24 in ‘Cardy’s’  Yard ready for the water – her sides resplendent in new paint, having been stripped back by her owner during the winter. Everywhere one looked, owners were working away round hull sides, under bottoms or around thew decks! Over in The Downs Road yard the new Thames sailing barge Blue Mermaid was in the floating dry dock – a final scrub up and paint before setting off on her sea trials…

The Blue Mermaid in dry dock, rigged and ready to go…

Spring came early in my parts and it’s strange to see the fluffy seed heads of dandelions  in such great numbers – even ‘bald’ ones! My good ship mate is certain that my head is much like a dandelion seed head – full of fluff. She loves me really! But although spring has been relatively mild with long dry spells here, around the yards and especially in my own club, plenty of owners have left outfitting late. I’ve always wondered why … work and family commitment pressures, or, just lacking in that ‘let us get on with it…’ spirit.

Dandelions are well ahead of the season…

Now a boating friend who owns a Finesse 24 came out of the water for a wash and brush up with the full expectation of getting back in after three weeks. Well, it hasn’t gone to plan: he found some spongy deck up forward … now he’s thinking of having the fore, side and poop decks stripped off and renewed. I’m sure I’ll have more on this (with the owner’s permission) in good time. While the owner mulls over this for a short while, he has carried out a little research into where to get longer rigging u-bolts from. I tried some while ago and failed to get responses from places.

The standard units available at the diameter fitted to a Finesse 24 aren’t available with a long enough bolt beneath the deck plate. I measured up when I was looking … a firm has come back and said, ‘No problem …’ The cost is about twice that of a standard 8 mm x 100 mm bolt beneath plate unit from a chandlers. My reasoning – I wanted to fit the u-bolts onto hard wood deck pads, thus alleviating problems of ‘crush’ of the plywood decks. I even made up a set of pads for one side and roughed out another, before laying the work aside. So thanks mate…

Even after 35 years of ownership, things can be done to improve the boat!

My sketch of u-bolts needed…

And of course, charts need to be checked, updated or renewed. I knew Whimbrel’s two sets of East coast charts had been superseded by freshly printed updates, so the ‘Kent’ set has been purchased and updated with the few changes that have taken place and the Essex/Suffolk set are on order.

Chart corrections…

Now, here is a plug:

As the various chandlers have closed down in the south of Essex, I have used ‘Barry’s’ at Dauntless Boat Yard for bibs and bobs over a number of years. May ere away, however, I’ve always found that have ‘that’ bit that no one else does. They will order from a catalogue or from wherever Barry gets ‘his’ stuff. I wanted the Suffolk chart, it wasn’t in stock. ‘No worries’ the lad said, adding, ‘when do you want it?’ Telling him I wasn’t in a hurry. He said, ‘One to two weeks and I’ll give you a call…’ Grand!

The beauty too is that the packs are a good £7 less than the Imray price … plus the delivery charge that would have been stuck on.

So, before you order on line, check out with the friendly team at Dauntless Yacht Centre…

See: http://www.dauntlessyachtcentre.co.uk/

I have the corrections ready…

And at the end of this week, tomorrow, I’ll be half way through my external beam radio therapy . Yippee!

Good ‘spring cleaning’, launches and first sails everyone.

Prostate Cancer update four…

I began my radiotherapy sessions on Wednesday just gone. I have been a little  worried about this due to the ‘dire’ warnings, but I did get through the ‘bracky’ without a hitch, so … but the why and wherefores do not always meet with sense and sensibility…

The day before this, I managed to get out for my first sail since my brachytherapy operation. It was quiet, peaceful and good for the soul. Wind was light, but did increase to get the boat going along at three knots or so … Whimbrel’s mate was with me – nice.

Running out of the creek…

The first was a bit ‘traumatic’, well fraught really. I was a little late being called forward and then on the scan which takes place first, it was found I had some wind (!) and had to ‘get rid of it’ before proceeding. I did this and waited and waited, my bladder filled three hours earlier beginning to want to burst. (Bladder has to be full or nearly so for treatment – forces ones ‘bits’ into ‘right’ place…

The machine…

I was then told I was after the next person … I went to the loo (sorry folks, but being ‘hospitalised’ destroys inhibitions!) and then began guzzling lots of water to fill the bladder – always a delay and only a percentage goes straight in. The normal filling time can be up to 1 1/2 hours. Come on you men, down the pub, it takes a couple of pints of beer before the urge begins…

Then the machine broke down … radiologists and their patient in tow hot-footed to another treatment room.

Finally I went in for my session too … the radiologists positioned my midriff, pulling and pushing the ‘mass’ into position to get the laser positioning right. Then one seems to stay as the unit rotates 360 degrees taking a scan. The scan is looked at. The ‘slab’ jiggles as motors fine adjust so that treatment programme is accurately directed. Then the ‘radio head’ rotates around one revolution bombarding my bits with a radioactive beam. (I joked to the ladies in our local library – nice place and caring people – about my bits glowing … I had them in fits. Christobel was aghast!).

I talked the radiographer into taking this picture on my camera … also told her about those men who had listened to my tale and responded. She said well done to all…

Before beginning my ‘sessions’ I had got hold of a length of 8 mm diameter mild steel rod to make up a punch for ‘tapping’ down the centre plate on Whimbrel, after a ‘stone’ has got caught between plate and ballast keel … this has happened a couple of times in the last decade. Once around the Walton Backwaters after going onto Stone Point for a scrub. Titchmarsh Marina’s yard let me borrow a rod to fix the problem. The other happened after a ‘scrape’ over a shingle bank in the Crouch by Bridgemarsh Creek when my sister and two friends were aboard for a week’s pottering – it was my fault! On the latter occasion, the plate didn’t free easily, but eventually went as we tacked up stream…

I vowed to get a proper punch of good length. The top of the plate can be felt by the rod through the lift wire slot – after removing a covering wood top piece.

So, over the first period of my radiotherapy, I got on with putting a punch together!

The bits at the start … wood and metal!

Rod with rough shaped wood hold…

Close up of wooden end.

Rod after first coat of anti-rust paint and handle with varnish…

I have now completed the first ‘week’ – only three, but it is a start. Only twenty more to go. I’m assured that a level of ‘unwellness and tiredness’ will creep up towards the middle of the treatment, but I’m beginning not to worry about it too much.

We plan at present to get away for a couple of nights over on the River Medway over the early May Bank Holiday. I know it’ll do me good… The boat will have a dirty bottom and the varnish work will not be completed – so what!

My first impression of the radiographers I have been in contact with is a ‘caring, protective and positive’ manner. It inspires confidence and I have even begun to ‘joke’ with them – not that they understand my comments about lining up the port, starboard and midships marks…

Hey, what the hell…

Previous blogs…

Ditch-crawler has his brachytherapy operation…

 

For some while now I have been stripping back areas of varnish that have succumbed to damp. Some were ‘attacked’ back in the warm days enjoyed in February – a dodgy exercise – which I got away with. All other areas have now been sanded back and a gradual build up of coatings applied. More are needed before Christobel and I sand the whole of the cabin sides ready for its biannual varnishing. One of my ideas was to get the ‘heavy’ stuff done before I went into hospital and head into my radio treatment … fortunately the weather has been kind and that desire has been largely achieved.

Chaffing bar to rubbing band.

Back in January I fitted chaffing bars to the rubbing band in way of the aft fairleads. I’d done this to the forward pair many years ago, but after ‘falling over’ a length of bronze which once protected the stem of some old boat, I had the material to repeat the exercise – only taken thirty odd years! They do stop moorings from cutting into the wood though…

The ‘regular’ work began with a window which needed to come off for resealing.. The varnish does tend to degrade around the window edge as well and when one is off I tend to sand back the coatings and reapply. I have a temporary cover for the windows when panel is off. At that time I’d gone round and stripped back degraded varnish and sanded with a coarse grade, leaving open to air until ready to progress further…

Completed window resealing and varnish work. It looks patchy, but does fade in time. It’s varnished wood! note the beading breakdown…

Most of the areas of breakdown seem to happen around the beading along the bottom edge of the cabin sides, sometimes the same area year after year! The boat does have areas which have an oilier piece of iroko – beads mainly. One senses the advent of a complete strip off approaching. Another

Finesse at my club has been out for the winter. The owner has competed quite a lot of repair work and has also stripped off the cabin sides back to bare wood – the initial coats glowed with that deep iroko colour… Aboard Whimbrel, we’ve had that discussion – paint and varnish stripping … when, sometime in the future. The chap is up to six coats as I write!

 

 

 

Two areas of varnish stripped back and coating build up in progress…

This last weekend one of my Finesse neighbours was lifted from the water for the annual wash and brush up. The owner said to me, ‘I’m doing the three forward keel bolts…’ adding, ‘got a man coming in from J-Star Marine.’ There has been a run of information about keel bolts on a Finesse facebook site, perhaps this was a memory jogger! I have two more that I’ve never had out on Whimbrel, so it is for me too…

When I strip back these little areas I always mark up on the deck or cabin top, adjacent, the numbers of coats applied. A few are no good. eight to ten I always consider a minimum.

Finesse 24 Gypsy being lifted out at the Island YC, Canvey Island. (Picture: Alexander Ardley)

The boat’s owner has set himself a completion date some four weeks hence.

All around our club’s yard work is frantically taking place. Some have got along with things gradually, whilst, looking around, many have left to last minute: lift in season is upon them! It’ll be the same up and down the rivers and coasts. Sadly though, as has happened in recent years, some craft will continue to sit it out, awaiting the call of the sea from an owner.

One job has awaited our combined attentions. I have wanted to move the jib boom topping lift mast point down below our radar reflector. Our old one, a round edged Firdell Blipper wasn’t a problem, but a replacement Echomax causes the topping lift to catch … so, with a new fitting, the snagging problem is to be removed…

I first had to go up above the radar reflector to get the pulley block off the original mast fitting – I don’t like heights any more… ‘We’ forgot to get a picture of me up there – I wore the bosun’s chair for the operation, but decided that the harness would have been better afterwards.

Ladder ready for final part of job.

Christobel getting sorted… Note the bosun’s chair…

Jib boom topping lift on its new mast fitting … no more snagging of lines aloft!

My mate, incidentally, is so looking forward to our boat’s ‘rest’ on the club slipway to do the antifouling in a month or so too – it is creeping up. In thew mean time I will be undergoing twenty-three sessions of radiotherapy, which come to an end a little before this planned event. Will I be fit. Don’t know at present … bu there are windows down the line before ‘serious’ sailing begins.

Christobel carrying out one of her favoured activities in 2017…

 

The first three weeks of March were exceedingly windy and there was no opportunity to get afloat for any sailing, however, on the Monday before my appointment with my oncology experts the wind dropped and I headed down to the creek a little after 0700 … by just before 0800, I was sailing out of the creek!

Sailing seawards after turning off the Dauntless Boat Yard by Benfleet Creek Barrier.

My good mate Christobel did not come along … she stayed and got on with the housework! I hasten to add that later I did finish the job by doing the vacuuming!

Clearing my creek I beat up to Benfleet doing long and short boards. It was a bit of a grey morning, but the sun did peek through to glisten across the waterway as I turned for home.

The following day, with good conditions Christobel wanted to come along too … packing the makings of a bacon roll breakfast and some prepared fruit, we set off merrily. I say ‘merrily’ with a little caution: I was beginning to feel a little edgy about going into hospital. yes, I know one is in safe hands (hopefully!), but I’d read all the ‘dire’ warnings about the brachytherapy procedure being filled with foreboding and trepidation so many times last year, that, quite frankly, I’ve not delved back into the info since…

Ah yes, a tasty bacon roll was handed to me… 

We had time to have our breakfast before departing and the bacon was soon sizzling under the grill – a bit of a treat! Meanwhile the boat was readied for sea.

Christobel hadn’t been ‘up west’ towards Benfleet for a little while so Whimbrel began a beat west, again! We did ‘cheat’ a bit passing down the narrower waterway between ‘The Benfleet’s’ bank-side and creek fore/aft moorings, but what the blazes… Nipping forward to look back up the creek soon after our turn (leaving Christobel in charge), I took a quick picture!

Looking aft…

The boat knows what to do, so it kept on going … good job for the mate was otherwise engaged. I have to say, in her defense, I’d given no instruction, even though she was aware … but we know our boats wiles. I have been ‘told off’ for this in the past … but as I say, with her long keel…

Ah yes, a relaxed mate!

It was a grand sail together, I vowed to myself that I would be afloat again in a week … Christobel even offered on the Sunday just gone, but I considered it a little early – I must be growing up!

It was a tranquil sail, less wind than the previous day and much more in the way of sunshine. Along the shoreline there is a definite ‘greening’ of the saltings: spring seems very much in evidence. But my time was running out, and I enjoyed a last coffee while re-coating a couple of areas of varnish work to build up coats before heading ashore, together…

A welcome coffee…

On the Wednesday, I was driven to hospital by Christobel … she was able to stay with me until the moment I was ‘taken down’ and was there minutes after my arrival on a ward some 5 hours later…

Ah yes, a post-op cup of tea…

Things are gathering pace and I’ve attended a ‘seminar’ on the next stage. Next appointment looms with the radiologists to do a dry run and get set up – I have to be marked with three tattooed dots which will be used as reference points for the machine…

I’m just pleased that the first stage has gone well, actually second, for the hormones are the grounding stage. I seem to have come through in a far better condition and frame of mind than I’d ever have thought possible – my sincere thanks to the oncology team at Southend University Hospital. xx

External beam radiation treatment is next … but more on this ‘third’ stage in good time.

Earlier blog link…

Ditch-crawler’s snake has been ‘tamed’, but now for the real stuff…

Part 3 of my prostate cancer tale…

To see earlier posts:

Ditch-crawler asks of his male fellow sailors ‘…have you been tested yet?’ Prostate cancer up-date…

I learnt last week about another chap who’d read my story and eventually summoned the courage to go to his GP surgery and ask for a prostate test (PSA). He did have a serious problem and, like me, is undergoing treatment. The chap is currently going through some weeks of radio therapy – what his actual ‘condition’ was, I do not know.

What it does show is that, like me, this problem can sliver up and bite you and unknowingly do its dreadful deed.

Be warned. Get tested…

Next week I go into hospital for brachytherapy treatment – essentially I will be injected with iridium (dust), which should neuter the beast. I will however, due to localised spread, have to undergo some weeks of radio therapy afterwards too…

During this month I have been hoping to get out for a sail: March is likely to run away as I recover. The weather has been somewhat stormy, wind wise, for two weeks now and looking ahead, I’d almost given up on a sail … however, over the coming weekend the winds affecting the whole of the British Isles abate, leaving the new week calm and balmy by comparison. Christobel has been tipped off! I mentioned some thoughts of popping off for the night … it didn’t go down very well. The term ‘Stupid Boy’ rang in my ears.

Hey ho!

My creek viewed as I walked away from Whimbrel after an afternoon sail during February…

For information and action, hopefully:

My dear sister has taken it upon herself to do a longish charity walk at the end of June and she is doing this in the name of research into prostate cancer.

It would be grand if any of you out there could sponsor her: it is a little advertised problem, yet is a bigger killer than breast cancer…

One of her sponsors has sent her a message to say that they have booked a prostate test – well done, who ever you are.

See: https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/theresa-ardley?fbclid=IwAR1VxHxxgR_DlfbLdhLKytRK_bKK-dclIoKOpR7iyCQyYEl2Ya5eoWvCfFs&utm_campaign=pfp-share&utm_content=Theresa-Ardley&utm_medium=fundraisingpage&utm_source=Facebook

Last Sunday, having missed our week’s longer walk for essential reasons, we drove over to Maldon to do what we had planned – Town to Heybridge Basin and back along the navigation – only five miles. On our way back over the Fullbridge the heavens above opened and we battled wind and hail storm back to the car. Any further wandering along the waterfront was called off and we drove home.

Over the past few months, well, since the end of summer really, we have been doing seven to nearly nine mile circuits (at times) around the ridge of humpy/lumpy hills leading into the Dengie Peninsular – it has been fascinating with many beautiful spots found. At times both the Crouch and Blackwater waterways have been in view at the same time. I think the important part of it too has been being able to commune with nature together enjoying the ‘great-outdoors’ for we both know, there will be a lull in my ability to do this. But I will try!

Looking over a windswept Heybridge Creek (River Blackwater) under a moody sky…

As with walking, sailing (being afloat) is where I commune with the world in general and barring my ability to get out for a few hours before Tuesday next week, when I’m due to have my brachytherapy operation, my thoughts as I go ‘down’ will be with all that I love ‘out there’ – boy do I have some wonderful memories to swirl around my mind…

Swirls of knot, dunlin and more besides will serenade me, I’m sure…

And, of course, the love of family, the wider family and friends helps immensely – and I want to give special thanks to my dear wife Christobel, ‘the mate’, and our boy who has been a ‘brick’…

Cor, blimey, it has been a windy old week in the eastern quarter, and elsewhere, I believe too … so with a bit of time on our hands we hightailed to Maldon to complete a few jobs: Christobel has been on the look out for some new cushion inserts. Everywhere one looks, there are cushions galore with ‘expensive’ covers available. The pillows themselves … hmmmmmmmmmm, even on line!

The upshot – she’s going for bust, heading for a new look for our conservatory!

Anyway, whilst she was at it, I paid a visit to The Sea-change Sailing Trust at the Downs Road Boat Yard – to deliver a letter. Well, I wanted to view the Blue Mermaid too, obviously…

The Blue Mermaid at Downs Road Boatyard.

I found Jim Dines, the yard’s proprietor, and sought permission to visit barge … but first, into the office to drop off a letter. Jim had said he doubted whether ‘the boss’ would be in – that’s Richard Titchener  – but he was in, going through a list of jobs with one of their newest recruits, a young lady doing heritage training with the trust.

I said I’d had permission to go aboard, however, Richard ‘nabbed’ me to assist in carrying some blocks aboard. Bless him!

The pictures will tell the story: she is coming on quickly now…

The fore deck on the Blue Mermaid…

Richard and the trainee discussing blocks and which would be used for what … I left whilst Richard gave instructions about servicing them…

The foot of main mast.

Looking aft to mizzen which has only recently been rigged. Some ropes still to run … I wanted to get a line round the sail!

The deck’s are clear, but the hold hatches are piled with gear, most of which has been donated.

Having wandered the decks, I went below and looked into the forward and aft cabins. These are well into their fitting out phase.

Looking aft along the swept hold – in use as a workshop!

Through watertight door into fore cabin.

I peaked into the port side cabin – single berth.

The washroom (heads…)

And to starboard is a four berth cabin…

Then aft-wards…

Aft cabin, port side berth…

Companionway and watertight door port forward side.

Starboard aft berth under construction…

Richard said to me that he plans to have the mast down in a few weeks to rig her with the sails … Jim and his team are working hard to complete, working out where various bits need to go: there is NEVER agreement amongst bargemen as to the exact location of cleats for example!

On the way ashore I chatted to Jim … and he proudly showed me a new winch under construction. Although made of plate steel, finely made sections have been laser cut to be welded around cut outs which will mimic a cast steel unit. Clever!

Winch and bilge pumps in workshop…

I loved the fabricated bilge pumps too.

So often when one comes across an old barge, the pump shafts are found standing to attention, bereft of the surrounding ‘barge’ … problem is they’re never serviceable due to internal wastage.

Thanking Jim, I hightailed back to the town centre: Christobel was probably waiting … and yes, there she was ensconced in The Black Cat Coffee Shop, just finishing a cup…

The Sea-change Sailing Trust is a worthwhile maritime organisation to support: they work with all ages.

See: http://www.seachangesailingtrust.org.uk/

They are: Making a real impact on the lives of disabled, disadvantaged and socially excluded young people

Once up and running, the trust will not have to spend huge amounts of money on chartering of other barges, albeit, that has given life to these…

The owner of Tarantella told me of his decision to sell his Finesse 24 which he purchased as a project some time ago – see below.

Finesse 24 Tarantella comes onto the market…

The vessel has now been placed on Appoloduck at a very reasonable price – she just needs finishing.

See: https://m.apolloduck.com/boat/finesse-24/597309?fbclid=IwAR0rMb6EtHSsR8cfH6xlFBTETPuzHm7OTCW-p-FSSaXkzBir7M9DUncTWys

If you decide to buy, do get in touch with the Finesse Group, you’ll be welcome.

It is a little after mid-February and in our neighbours garden a flowering cherry is coated in budding green leaves. All around, daffodils are breaking open in glorious yellow sun bursts, whilst the snowdrops continue to delight. Down my creek the level of activity among the many laid up craft has risen markedly: the weather after two bouts of snow has been glorious. Bottoms are being painted, sides are being buffed up … spring is coming, surely.

My mate has been ‘under the weather’ with a virus, so our walking has been curtailed. This has ‘allowed’ me to crack on with a job or two aboard Whimbrel. I removed a window last week and re-sealed it inside and out. Whilst off, the woodwork has been sanded and varnished – six coats now, so  ready to refit the window!

Cabin sides under piece of plastic sheeting whilst varnishing…

Leaving my good wife asleep on Tuesday morning, I beetled to the creek and got a last coat on area which will be under the window frame and the surrounds … just every now and then the varnish breaks down around the cabin window frames, necessitating removal, rubbing down and varnishing. I like to get up to six coats before replacing window. I’ve had this  Heath-Robinson temporary cover for years – about time I made a better one!

The tide was on its way in, so I then got ready for a sail! The tide soon lifted the boat as I stood minding a mug of coffee – all ready ‘we’ were away. I set the mainsail and spun the boat in the creek, running out. Brent geese were dabbling along the mud edges in large numbers, virtually oblivious of my presence.

Passing dabbling Brent on way out…

It was a glorious morning. Sublime with a warming sun, although the breeze a 3 to 4 WSW was keen enough to make me keep my gloves on!

Cl;earing the creek, I set the jib while the boat headed up Hadleigh Ray with the bit between her teeth. Long and short tacking ensued as we began to eat up the distance.

A flock of waders lifting off from Bird Island.

Ah, the birds…

Approaching the gnarled stumps of the Salvation Army Wharf, I saw a row of guillemots with craned necks clearing fish into the digestive tracts. As I closed they all lifted bar one. This waited until I was close by, loosing off a shower of pooh which splattered into the creek like bullets. Away, beyond, the deep greenness of the sea wall sides spoke of fresh grass growth – the warmth of the past week or so has activated so much.

Under carriage up…

I settled to a steady ‘to and fro’ whilst sipping another coffee. Upon the sea wall I saw a host of walkers and dogs. Passing the log seat which someone placed conveniently for walkers to sit at about half distance between Leigh and Benfleet, I saw two people, a couple perhaps: they were a man and a woman, resting, whilst a dog capered.

A flight of curlews were seen. Some avocet too, with their calls coming across the water from the edge of a patch of mud, close under the saltings, feeding before the tide covered it completely. Earlier, passing the Two Tree Island bird hides, I’d felt a pair of binoculars or telephoto lens following me. I’d picked up my camera and focused in … yes, I was being watched, but surely it was Whimbrel … apparently they have been around this winter!

On a long fetch…

On a long fetch towards Benfleet YC with Dauntless beyond.

Closing The Benfleet’s pontoon to talk to a friend…

 

Running back down Benfleet Creek towards Hadleigh Ray the following day…

But back to ‘the story’ – before I even got back into what is commonly known as Hadleigh Ray – the bottom end of Benfleet Creek – I could wafts of waders weaving in sinuous waves. I really believe they can tell when the tide is approaching its turn … and the soon uncovering of their rich feeding grounds. It is exceedingly hard to get good pictures of the spectacle put on display for us mere humans with a ‘ordinary’ camera and I suspect a rapid action type would be more suited to my desires!

A poor shot of a weaving flock…

On the way up the creek the sky had seemed to contain an abnormal number of vapour trails high up, beyond the eye’s usual boundary and with the position of the sun over the island of Canvey, it looked spectacular.

Vapour trails crisscrossed the sky above…

One of the things that has become so much more noticeable over the past few years is the sheer magnitude of rubbish seen either in the water or along tide lines. For a period following the ‘clean up’ campaigns of the later decades of the last century rubbish diminished hugely. What’s changed Peoples ways? New generations that know nothing of what it was like 40-50 years ago?

There needs to be a sea-change attitudes again or otherwise we’ll be back to square one. One would think after programmes such as ‘Blu Planet’ people would endeavour to reduce (plastic) pollution to zero … I sailed past numerous ‘dead’ baloons and other items that looked like discarded plastic sacks, never mind the hundreds of plastic bottles. It made me somewhat sad, angry even…

And that boat, moored in Hadleigh Ray continues to fly black plastic bags from a string. Shame on the owner.

A bundle of deceased balloons along the Two Tree Island saltings…

Anyway, I had a fabulous late winter’s sail … and after re-fitting the window I had removed the next day, I repeated the exercise!

The window … the ‘gaffer’ tape pulled some of the varnish coating off of the cabin top beading…

I’ve been pottering round the boat breaking open areas of varnish that has got moisture beneath too … not a huge amount – beading on the whole. Some though I’d only stripped off last year and a long strip runs down the port side of cabin sides – see below window. Hey Ho!

Spring is just round the corner…

In the autumn we took Whimbrel’s ‘new’ sails over to Faversham for Wilkinson Sailmakers to carry out some servicing – a guarantee refit. They’d looked at my Genoa last summer and did a little bit of work … I was ‘chastised’ for not bringing the sails in after the completion of the first year. ‘Sorry…’ I said, adding, ‘This autumn be okay?’ and that was that.

It was by then nearly two years since I had collected the new sails. In the intervening period they have moved to the industrial estate on the site of Pollards Shipyard, opposite Standard Wharf. Their old loft still sits empty awaiting a decision about its future – residential apartments, I believe. 

Wilkinson Sails, Faversham.

In the mean time Whimbrel has been dressed with her old mainsail and jib – we haven’t bothered about the Genoa during the last few months … not essential for winter short sails!

We had driven over to Faversham two days earlier having decided to enjoy a couple of days being cosseted at The Sun Inn – very it was enjoyable too. Time was spent bumbling around the local area looking at a couple of ancient churches and as far away as Reculver – the old church towers and Roman fort – and the River Wantsum’s northern end. All very interesting…

See: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wantsum_Channel

I jokingly said to Christobel the day before we picked up the sails, ‘Be funny if we get onto the M2 … halfway home and remembered the sails…’ But, we didn’t forget!

The Wilkinson loft floor and another sits to the right through a doorway.

Wilkinson will ‘attack’ any project. Cindy Parker, the proprietor, had a ‘Glamping’ tent under way – the ‘pile’… I shall have to be seriously thinking about a new cover for Whimbrel’s tender, Twitch, soon: it is now twenty-five years old. It has shrunk a little and needs renewal! I have already ordered a new mainsail cover for the day when one is needed (soon) … our new mainsail takes up more stowed volume than our old sail and the cover is tight. Hey ho.

 

Sails stowed in car…

The weather of late has been exceptionally windy cutting down the opportunities for a seasonal sail, so, as soon as a day came I hightailed to my creek. Only the Genoa was ‘aired’ on that occasion, the jib will be next. The main will probably not be fitted until spring has sprung. In the picture below, the colour differences can be seen. It was nice to have the Genoa aboard for the wind was light.

Whimbrel’s Genoa gets an airing…

During the past thirty-five years, I have always gone back to the same loft from whence the boat’s sails came – W-Sails of Leigh-on-Sea – but Peter Waghorn had gone into retirement, I thought from a conversation some time ago. It appears however that his staff are keeping the loft alive. I haven’t seen Peter for some time to ask what is happening. Anyway, what with the uncertainty, I went where I went… Shame: I’d never had a problem with Peter’s sails – all problems were readily resolved. This too applies to Wilkinson Sails, as I’ve found to my delight!

The jib gets an airing on an overcast winter’s afternoon…

So, just the mainsail to air now, but it’ll stay in its bag awhile yet.

If you need a friendly sail maker, repairs or new go and chat to Cindy, Alan or Sarah…

See: http://wilkinsonsails.co.uk/