What is this? A name board?

[Alexrigg]

Hi,

Can anyone tell me what these two large wooden planks are for in the linked image? They have the name of the boat on one side, a few holes through them, bronze strips along the full length on one side, and short bronze strips on the side with the names on. Thick, solid, pieces of wood, they've been heavily varnished or epoxied.

Thanks,

Alex

 

[itchenseadog]

Fender boards ?

 

[Mad Pad]

If fender boards why the brass??

 

[Alexrigg]

Fender boards ?

I did think they might be but as per the post below why the metal strips, and would they need to be so big and heavy?