I have a couple of interesting photos of how Sandbach used to look when first built in 1946. Then she was 25ft long but she must have proved impossible to steer as in less than 12 months she was sent back to Yarwoods to have an extra 10ft inserted.

The top photo shows her sister BEESTON on the bank at Ellesmere Port museum awaiting restoration (copyright Brian McGuigan)

The lower photo shows her as first built (copyright Cheshire CC,County Record Office, DDX 289).

Refit Update

The photo alongside gives an idea of the new look Sandbach will have with the two front windows eliminated. Work is progressing steadily and all should be ready for a visit to the Port at Easter.

HNBOC AGM and New Can

Yesterday (Sat 6th March), I went with Irene to Braunston to attend the AGM of HNBOC. As good luck would have it, my new Buckby can by Terence was ready at the same time. As Terence now lives in Braunston collection was easy. I am well pleased with the end result but I now have the dilemma of........do I use it on the boat and get it chipped and scratched or should it live in cotton wool at home.