Hi Brianmac,
Thanks,
I am searching for some docs i researched around 2000 - 2002, but unfortunately i couldnt find her then and its too late now. Meantime i can tell you in 1947 it was registered with 'Newt King' and i believe at that time my father worked with him on the boat at Clacton. It was then registered with my father as a co-owner in 1949. I do seem to recall my father mentioning once about being involved with Dunkirk, but he would never say very much in depth. At some point after that my father took sole ownership but at this point i cant confirm the date. Not having seen the boat or pictures of her for some time it was interesting to note both the raised bow end by what looks like 4 planks and also the enclosed wheel house. The black and white photo of her without them was how i remember it, so that must have been added sometime after around 1974 -75 ish as i think that was when my father sold her.
A couple of bits of info might help. I remember my father used to moor the boat off the end of Clacton pier overnight and occasionally he would let me go out to her first thing in the morning and bring her in to the beach before the start of the days business. I do remember on at least one occasion she did sink due to bad weather overnight and was obviously refloated. He did say that had happened once before then as well but i dont know the date. When he knew there was to bad weather we would take her along the coast to shelter in the estuary between Brightlingsea and Point Clear. During the winter months the boat would be taken along the river to a place called Rowhedge and taken out of the water for its annual refit to comply with the board of trade. Again on occasion i would go with him to help clean the paint work and repaint etc.
At this point i also can't tell you where and when she was built, but as soon as i have found some docs, pictures and more info i will get back to you with poss some better news, but hope this helps in the meantime
Regards
Jerry Lawes