Medway Queen

[lenknight]

Having at last some spare time to browse, I think it is about time that I introduced myself to PD’s.
I have been a member of this group for some time, not because of model building, (I have fingers like a bunch of bananas) but the connection to historic ships, the paddle steamer.
For the last 25 years, I have plugged the dilemma of the paddle steamer ‘Medway Queen’ sadly underrated by the Historic Ships Committee’ of the UK. In its position of rating for preservation, should be on the ‘Core List’ not the ‘Designated List’ as at present. However, this is a matter for the nation to put right.
We have at long last, after 20 years (too late) received a grant to restore this vessel from the ‘Lottery Fund’ albeit too small to restore the ship.
However, I deviate from the subject. I am 81, suffering from all the aliments that one can expect at that age, to boring to go in to, but brain active.
It is but sad that our heritage is slowly being being ‘Hijack’ by political involvement. And unless backed by ‘Royalty’ little hope of survival. Ships that have little ‘Historical Importance’ are pushed into the top grade, while those that are not are ‘kicked in to touch’
What more can I say!
Regards Len Knight.

[Eddy Matthews]

I can fully understand your frustration Len, the government and the national lottery should be damned well ashamed of themselves for their attitude towards one of our truely historic ships!

Is there anything we, as a group, can do which might help? Perhaps you could set up a Paypal account for our members to make a donation if they wish? I would certainly be happy to put up a link on Paddleducks to make it easy for people to find....

You, and the rest of the group involved with the attempt to preserve the Medway Queen, should be heartily congratulated, not slapped down at every turn - Which sadly seems to be the way things have gone for well over 20 years now! But rest assured, I, and many others are behind you every step of the way.

Best wishes

[lenknight]

Thanks Eddy,you help to restore my faith in our fellow beings, when at times I think very few care about out ‘Heritage’ unless financial rewarded. Your input re ‘Pay Pal’ would of course help to further increase the funds, if you so wish, but not a cost to yourself.
There are many ways that PD’s can contribute to the Medway Queen project if they so wish, available on our website www.medwayqueen.co.uk One being a ‘Sponsored Cycle Event’ by one of our members.
Your contribution last year re your ‘Paddlers Day’ was a nice help to further the cause, and I notice that you are running it again. I have listed it on ‘Events’ on our website, hope that may help to gain input for you.
Thanks once again for you’re input, and help.
Regards Len.