There was always the fear that some yob would set light to it, and it is fantastic that someone has the skill and enthusiasm to finish the restoration. Yes, I was on the hoist, and it was rather nerve-wracking in front of an audience!
No not really, I haven't had a chance to have a natter with the guy who has taken it on. I believe the original boat was working in the 30's, but looking at it it would seem that only the keelson and deadwood were around at the time! It has been completely replanked with iroco, has a new deck and rails, and had a doghouse built (the joinery looks superb), but then was left to lie here for several years.
I've been driving past her for the last few weeks and kept meaning to stop and have a good look. Is all that planking new? If so that is a complete labour of love.
The original timber is confined to some of the frames and the keel. I don't think it was a labour of love - it was a boatyard job that seems to have got out of hand until the money ran out. The joinery is very impressive though.
The boat is being moved as I write, down to the lock end of the marina. They are warping it along the wall /forums/images/graemlins/smile.gif