IN PICTURES: Thames sailing barge marks 100th birthday with cake, shanties, and a new book

By Ben Shahrabi 14th Jul 2022

In 2019, the Thames Sailing Barge Trust started the latest phase of her restoration which will see Pudge sailing for many years to come. The Trust raised £738,000, through grants and donations, for Pudge to receive new decks, beams, ceilings, carlings, and a below-deck refit.
In 2019, the Thames Sailing Barge Trust started the latest phase of her restoration which will see Pudge sailing for many years to come. The Trust raised £738,000, through grants and donations, for Pudge to receive new decks, beams, ceilings, carlings, and a below-deck refit.

Crowds gathered at Hythe Quay, Maldon, yesterday afternoon, to mark 100 years of the Thames sailing barge Pudge.

Take a look at the event as told in pictures, or click here to learn more about the barge's fascinating history.

Built in 1922, Pudge is a familiar sight for visitors to the town. (Photo: Thames Sailing Barge Trust)

To mark the occasion, the Thames Sailing Barge Trust published a book about the barge's history, called 'Pudge – the Survivor' which was launched yesterday afternoon.

Maldon Town Mayor Andrew Lay joined in with the festivities (Photo: Gill Carpenter)

Trust volunteers were on hand to make teas and coffees, and there was a vast array of cupcakes, Victoria sponges, chocolate cakes and more on offer. (Photo: Gill Carpenter)

Local shanty crew Mains'l Haul gave a performance, to mark Pudge's 100th birthday. (Photo: Gill Carpenter)

The Thames Sailing Barge Trust sold lots of copies of its new book, and the public showed an interest in the Trust itself, too. (Photo: Gill Carpenter)

Shanty crew Mains'l Haul (L-R: Jeff, Jill, Sue, Ray and Dave) sang in front of the century-old craft. (Photo: Gill Carpenter)

Copies of the book 'Pudge - A Survivor' cost £22.95 plus p&p of £5.00. To purchase one, contact John Rayment on 07587 141 054 or via the Thames Sailing Barge Trust's website.

     

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