THE LAST LAUNCH

In 1959

By Colin Holden

Photo: Illustrative image for the 'THE LAST LAUNCH' page
Photo: Illustrative image for the 'THE LAST LAUNCH' page
Photo: Illustrative image for the 'THE LAST LAUNCH' page
Photo: Illustrative image for the 'THE LAST LAUNCH' page
Photo: Illustrative image for the 'THE LAST LAUNCH' page
Photo: Illustrative image for the 'THE LAST LAUNCH' page
This page was added by Colin Holden on 05/07/2008.
Comments about this page

In 1959 when part of the launching team I took these photographs of "Cecil and Lillian Philpot`s" last launch. (1) Doors aside, Lowered onto slipway,but still on her cradle, bow chains , walkways inside and outside removed from the slipway. At this point she is only held by one cable from the winch and a knock away pin. (2) Thumbs up,a call of knock away, and she leaves the boathouse for the last time. (3) Coxwain Bill Harvey at the wheel, the"Londres" at the east quay. (4) Turns up river,the marine offices can be seen on the quay above Cecil`s bow. (5) Ken Wood can be seen on the stern, always around the Harbour turn his hand to anything, Local estate agent "Tophams" Hyme Schaverien in the white shirt, and Harold Moore. To the bow of the minesweeper are the winesheds which were soon to destroyed by a fire. (6) Being made fast at the tugs berth, Both dredgers at work."Testside" in the harbour and the "Formost Prince" between the piers. She had now made way for the "Kathleen Mary", the doors had to altered to accommodate her!!!!---but thats another story.

By Colin Holden
On 18/01/2008

Hi, Colin, the alterations to raise the door opening were carried out by my late father, George Brandon. I also knew your father and family as we lived only four doors away. You have put some great material on this site, keep it coming.

By Colin Brandon
On 06/06/2010

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