It is with a sad and heavy heart that we share the recent passing of Peter Kalopsidiotis. An active member of Whitstable Maritime, Peter, the Vice-Chair responsible for the Gamecock restoration project, was frequently found under her hull removing, replacing or repairing parts. Whilst a volunteer himself, Peter helped lead and guide other restoration volunteers […]
Obituary – Peter Kalopsidiotis Read More »
The first part of the first plank fitted. You can see the amount of twist in the plank. This meant it had to be steamed. Steaming makes the wood go ‘rubbery’ temporarily. It is then clamped into position and as it cools it hardens up again in the new shape. Watch this space for more
Whitstable Maritime’s AGM was well attended. In her Chairperson’s address, Susannah used these diagrams to illustrate progress with the restoration of the Gamecock. The planks for the side of the hull have been purchased. Most are larch but the bottom few will be sweet chestnut because it is easier to steam and bend to the shape
Another Plank Forward Read More »
It is that time of year when we look back and reflect, or look forward in anticipation of events planned, or speculate as to which scenario is most likely to unfold. Those of you who have closely followed the history of Gamecock will be saddened to learn of the death of Bill Coleman at the
What can you expect? Planning is at an early stage but many organisations in Whitstable and the South-East are already developing ideas as to how they can best celebrate the town’s connections with the sea: past, present and future. The day will be packed with a full programme of activities for all ages, both on
Whitstable Harbour & Boat Show 2025 Read More »
Having reached retirement age I knew that it would not be long before I would find myself with many spare hours. I was fortunate in being asked to continue working part-time and in the remaining two days of the week I began talking to Whitstable residents about boats, oysters, and the town’s maritime history. All
Obituary, Bill Coleman Read More »
The fitted knee can be seen and here is Morgan putting the finishing touches to the apron. The apron has since been hoisted into position, butted up and fitted to the knee. The cover and supporting structure had to be temporarily removed so the shipwright could “eye ” the apron in. The cover is now
Canterbury’s popular image is of medieval spires, Gothic tracery, and cobbled streets lined with overhanging jetties. Yet if you turn off the main shopping street down a narrow lane alongside the Adobe Hotel, you are quickly into a former industrial complex with several stories of brick, warehouses and factories. Today, it is a silent world. There are no longer roaring flames or the clanging of metal as the coke furnaces have long gone; as have the Founders, Braziers, Tin-men, and Engineers who worked in Stour Street and Jewry Lane.
The perfect Christmas present: Premium Gamecock Rum Read More »
2024 has been a very active year for Whitstable Maritime, not just regarding restoration of the Gamecock, but also the continued popularity of the 5km Coastal Trail and the growing partnership with the Marine Conservation Society and Kent Wildlife Trust. Such partnerships are critical as this enables the Charity to drive towards our objectives.
Whitstable Maritime AGM Read More »
At the latest Board meeting of Whitstable Maritime there was a unanimous decision to fit an engine to Gamecock. I have chosen to be a non-executive President so my vote was insignificant but I supported the proposal. Given that we have been advised Gamecock will have over 60 years of working life because of the high quality of the Restoration work, it is realistic to plan for income from commercial. Then she will need to work to a timetable, rather than be susceptible to the vagaries of wind and tide. It is also a significant additional safety feature.
