IT WAS a memorable day at Conwy Quay yesterday (April 1), as a boat which is more than 100 years old and took more than 12 years to completely rebuild finally returned to sea.
The Helen II was carried by crane back into the sea in what was a prelude to an official ceremony, when all of those who have supported and funded the project will be formally thanked.
The boat was donated to Conwy by its previous owner, Jim Roddick, in memory of his late son, Jamie, had been stored quayside.
Allan Sharp helped set up the "Jamie Roddick Trust" and has been involved with the project from the start, while Ron Lovelady is another trustee.
Allan said: "We wanted to get it in the water, make sure it was nice and water-tight, and use the high water available to us today.
"But of course, we will have a commissioning ceremony, which we will invite all of those generous benefactors and funders and people that have helped us over the years to see Helen II and appreciate all the work that's gone in to her.
"Any marine operation is fraught with issues, but we've doggedly worked through the process, and with the help of the harbour authority and volunteers, we've come up with a plan that has worked perfectly."
Many people gathered by the quay to watch along as the boat was first raised onto a platform, before being lifted by a crane.
This wooden fishing boat, known as a “Morecambe Bay Prawner”, was built in 1910 by John Crossfield, is 40 feet long, with an oak frame and pitch pine strakes and decking.
The crane then lifted the boat carefully into the water.
The Helen II is a “Nobby" - a boat made of rough wood, but identifiable by its sleek lines, low freeboard and upward curve.
The boat was then rotated as it was placed delicately into the sea.
The crowd clapped as the boat was placed in the water, before its mast was later fitted.
One long-serving volunteer, Phil Stephenson (pictured below stood on the boat), garnered the nickname "Wednesday Phil" as he would help out every Wednesday - indeed, he was asked by another helper if he realised it wasn't Wednesday today.
A host of volunteers were involved in its rebuilding, while Conwy County Borough Council provided initial funding for the project, as well as space on the quay where the works could take place.
READ MORE:
WATCH: Boat which took more than 12 years to rebuild relaunches at Conwy Quay
Boat on Conwy Quay being converted and sent to Madagascar
Also involved in the project were various other groups, including the “4Cs” (Conwy Christian Cruising Club – four Conwy-based sailors), and Christian charity Youth With A Mission.
The mast was then fitted onto the boat, before it was successfully taken out the sea for the first time since its relaunch.
Now re-launched, Helen II will be used to take youngsters from all backgrounds and abilities to experience traditional sailing and enjoy marine life in a boat that was built for speed and safety.
The boat will also be used for educational and team-building exercises, and will also represent Conwy at various heritage events.
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