Back to where it all began for historic sailing vessels

VITAL pieces of historic sailing vessels have been taken back to where they were built in South Devon around 100 years ago.

Torbay-based charity The Trinity Sailing Foundation owns three gaff-rigged Brixham trawlers — Leader (built in 1892), Provident (1924) and Golden Vanity (1908).

All were built at Galmpton Creek.

During the winter the fleet are kept alongside, in Dartmouth, sheltering from the bad weather. This year the charity has decided to take down their spars for added protection. They are being stored in a shed thought to have been used for their construction around 100 years ago. Harry Gottschalk, Trinity’s marketing and sales manager, said: “Selected spars have been derigged to keep them in good condition away from the cold and damp weather.

“After putting out an appeal for somewhere safe to keep them, we were put in touch with Dolphin Haven Boatyard, at Galmpton Creek. During our discussions it occurred to us that this is likely to be the exact spot where the vessels were built all those years ago.”