It’s nice to see Simon making good progress and he
certainly works hard enough in his ‘spare’ time. The story so far has shown the
good bits and the bits that he has made good, but, even leaving aside the
complete refurbishment of the cavernous areas below deck, there are a lot of bad
bits which need to be addressed. These include the hull itself where the 136-year-old
teak is showing its age. The massive beam which goes right round the edge of
the ship (technical term please someone) has crumbled away in places –
especially at the stern – and a previous owner has back filled it with concrete.
This concrete is itself crumbling in places. I don’t know whether concrete is a
recognised repair material, but I cannot think of any other way to fill a
jagged hole easily. (Photo)
The ‘repairs’ go right around the stern and look quite
fresh on the port side. (Photo)
Most of the sides of the hull look sound, but there are
areas where close inspection and perhaps repairs are needed. The forward starboard area
is a case in point (Photo)
As the vessel is floating higher than she was in her
working days and will not (hopefully) be subjected to anything more than a
gentle lifting and lowering on the tide, this may not be a problem. A good
scrape and paint is indicated!
Wood rots and metal corrodes – especially when exposed to
salty sea air and moisture. A temporary repair has been done on the lifeboat
platform supports. Although the lifeboat and its davits have long since gone,
the platform was definitely at risk. A more permanent repair will be effected.
(Photo)
Finally, the old mizzen mast is doing a reasonable job
keeping the ship off the mooring posts, but a gentler medium is needed. We
found a neighbouring contractor about to dispose of some big dumper truck
tyres, which will be ideal fenders. (Photo)
The only problem now is how to get them from N Wales to Kent‼
David
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