| Abstract | When we first started pulling PIONEER from the mud, we were by no means sure the salvage would be successful. Thankfully it soon became clear that restoration was possible, but it would undoubtedly be a long and complex project. Hence we decided to set up the Pioneer Sailing Trust.
The Trust is a registered charity, operating strictly under a group of trustees who include Mary Falk, Charles Harker and Rupert Marks. The Trust's first objective is to restore PIONEER back to sailing condition following her launch on 17th May 2003.
In getting this far, the Trust has benefited from the terrific support of many people. Without their time, money, experience, materials and equipment, PIONEER would remain a wreck. We are very grateful for their help.
PIONEER's masts have now been stepped and her sails are being made. She will be ready to sail again later this summer and, hopefully, will take part in the Mersea Oyster Dredging Match. She is now berthed in a dock in Brightlingsea which was once part of Aldous slipways and this may well be the same site where Pioneer was lengthened in 1889. Once sailing again, she will operate from here and from a mooring out in the Colne.
Mast stepping - the spars are lifted aboard on Brightlingsea Hard.
Mast Stepping - mainmast and mizzen are stepped and the PIONEER is ready for her bowsprit and topmast.
Looking ahead, the Trust wants PIONEER to be very much a working boat. But rather than dredging oysters for a living, her job now will be to train people in sailing skills, in the heritage of the Colchester Fishery and, through these, in life skills such as teamwork and leadership. With accommodation for three crew and 12 trainees, she will be able to put to sea from a day to a month.
The Trust is very keen that PIONEER should be available to those people who might best benefit, yet who are most likely to be excluded from such opportunities. We intend to work with life development trusts, schools, training agencies, councils, social services, and other organisations committed to social welfare.
If you feel you could help the Trust in any way, or that PIONEER could benefit you or your organisation, please get in contact with us through
www.pioneersailingtrust.org.uk |
