All hands on deck for big anniversary
AS The Tall Ship Glenlee celebrates its 125th anniversary, the Clyde Maritime Trust has welcomed the support of Elaine C Smith as the charity’s real-life figurehead after the ship’s own Mary Doll.
The historic vessel’s carved figurehead was named Mary Doll during its restoration, in tribute to the character played by Elaine in the hit comedy Rab C Nesbitt, after it was brought back to the Clyde in the 1990s.
The national treasure has added her support to the Trust that cares for and runs the Glenlee. Smith said: “It is just wonderful. “This fantastic organisation that restored the Tall Ship, a charity, worked tirelessly for over 20 years.
“I didn’t really know it was happening but apparently they nicknamed the figure they were restoring Mary Doll which seemed appropriate for a ship berthed here on the Clyde.
“It is quite an iconic landmark in Glasgow so I feel really honoured and privileged.
“That character was written by the wonderful Ian Pattison – he created Mary Doll. It’s really such a great legacy to have, especially here just across from Govan.
“The ship is a great learning tool next to the transport museum and a resource for everyone, it’s fantastic.
“We need to learn from history and if we don’t learn from it, you don’t know how to embrace the future.”
Elaine welcomed a special cake designed by bakery students from the City of Glasgow College ahead of the celebrations.
Paul Little, principal and chief executive at the college, said: “I am delighted that our talented NQ bakery students have created such a magnificent cake to help celebrate the Tall Ship’s 125th anniversary.
“Our college has a wellestablished and productive partnership with Clyde Maritime Trust which this valuable student work experience opportunity underlines.
“On behalf of us all at City of Glasgow College, I wish the Glenlee a very happy anniversary.”
Chair of the Clyde Maritime Trust Colin Botfield added: “It’s brilliant to have Elaine on board as the figurehead for the trust today, although getting the cake onboard may be a bit harder, it’s ginormous.
“We are very excited to be able to celebrate the 125th anniversary of the Glenlee and look forward to thanking all those who have helped in the ongoing restoration and maintenance of this historic ship.
“Between the trustees, volunteers and staff, they have all worked tremendously hard over the years to ensure we have this iconic visitor attraction, maritime museum and unique venue space.”