Vicki Samuels, who is Chair of the Britannia Sailing Trust, has asked if we could share the following information about the Trust’s exciting heritage project.
The Britannia Sailing Trust cares for the last remaining Class 1 East Coast Smack. A Smack was a traditional fishing boat used off the coast of Britain and the Atlantic coast of America for most of the 19th century and, in small numbers, up to the Second World War.
The Trust is very keen to explore and establish partnerships with other third sector organisations who align with its mission, and asks that any organisation interested in finding out more about the Trust or its project to restore the last remaining Class 1 East Coast Smack, makes contact with Vicki on 01837 680036.
For example, the Trust is signed up as a North Devon Biosphere Business Partner, raising awareness of protecting nature. It is also happy to make presentations or give talks to local groups to stimulate
interest in Maritime Heritage
The Class 1 East Coast Smack is currently in a purpose built shed in Winkleigh, Devon. The Trust’s aim is to complete the hull rebuild by Spring 2023, relaunching her on April 10 2023, the 108th anniversary of her launch in Kings Lynn in 1915.
The Trust’s mission is to:
o Restore Britannia again to a certified seagoing vessel, using the restoration process as an
intergenerational educational and social opportunity.
o Support local youth and disadvantaged individuals to learn traditional skills, helping them find
purpose and employment opportunities
o Keep this wooden ship working at sea, immersed in salt water, which is vital to preserving
her condition.
o Campaign for cleaner seas, sustainable forestry and carbon neutral ocean transport.
More information on the mission and Britannia’s long interesting history can be found on the Trust’s website, which has lots of interesting information and resources about the project, its Facebook page or on Twitter.
If you have a project you’d like to share with others, please contact Paul and Dominie at GRIN using the email address info@grin.coop.
Image: The Britannia, the last remaining Class 1 East Coast Smack.