Category: Medway, Swale and the Kent coast

Medway, Swale and the Kent coast

An interview with Bob Roberts’ Cambria mate Phil Latham

Phil Latham on sailing the Cambria from Richard Fleury on Vimeo.

Richard is the chap who runs the The Quay website, which campaigns for the maritime future of Faversham Creek.

On the day of the Cambria’s relaunch earlier this week he was lucky enough to be able to meet Phil Latham, who was Bob’s mate aboard the sailing barge from 1964-68, and and to film an interview. I think it’s of great interest to anyone fascinated by sailing barges and Bob Roberts,  but also to sailors who know or plan to visit the East Coast.

Cambria is relaunched!

Relaunch of sailing barge Cambria at Standard Quay

The relaunch of Bob Roberts’ old sailing barge Cambria at Standard Quay, Faversham just after noon on the 21st March 2011. Hoorah!

Roberts was the last working barge skipper, and Cambria the last working barge. She’s now being refurbished, and this short film shows the first short trip she has made on her own bottom for some time.

I should add that old Bob was also a noted singer and melodeon player – although the sound track I’ve used on this clip is not by him, but an old recording of mine. Read all about the Cambria here .

Very sadly, this launch may be one of the last from Standard Quay, as there are plans to develop the area. To support the campaign to save Standard Quay and Faversham Creek’s traditional maritime industries, see http://standardquay.com/

PS – Graham Phillips spotted this clip of Cambria arriving at Standard Quay. Thanks Graham!

 

A splendid new Faversham Creek poster

Faversham Creek Trust poster

Faversham Creek Trust poster Faversham Creek Trust poster Faversham Creek Trust poster

Click on the images for a much bigger view!

Bob Telford of the Faversham Creek Trust has sent me this splendid poster telling the story of the creek and its industries, including boatbuilding at Standard Quay. It also outlines the trust’s proposals for its future.

The pdf version is Faversham Creek Trust poster.

I’m reminded that there’s a meeting tonight that will provide an important opportunity for voices in support of preserving to creek to be heard. See this earlier post for details. I’m sorry to say I won’t be able to attend as I’m currently battling a nasty bout of bronchitis, but I’m hoping some local intheboatshed.net readers will be there, and I’m very much looking forward to hearing how the event went.

Also on the subject of Standard Quay, don’t forget the petition calling on the council and planners to preserve this historic working quay and boatyard for the future – it needs your signature now!

PS – Regular readers will be pleased to know that it looks like the meeting on Tuesday went well from the campaign’s point of view!