The AGM for the Medway Queen Preservation Society

[lenknight]

The AGM for the Medway Queen Preservation Society will be held next Saturday 15th July 2006 at Rochester, Kent  (info on www.medwayqueen.co.uk)
I hope the strategy for the future of the Medway Queen will be laid out for all to hear.  
A grant of £1.8 million has be allocated from the Lottery to renew the hull.
 It is the end of one era, but the beginning of another in the sager for the Medway Queen, the struggle is far from over.
The renewing of the hull is but one step to achieve our objective, so no one can afford to lie back just yet.
Once this first stage has been achieved, funds must be raised to rebuild the interior of the ship, no mean target.
 I am sure all will be revealed on the day.
This is a just reward for the paddler known as the “Heroine of Dunkirk” after 21 years to establish recognition of this fact, It is just a shame that her existence is always to the “Brink” before a lifeline is offered.
It is sad that few seem to want to comment on this achievement, by a few that have struggled over 20 years to reach this end, now all old aged pensioners, the eldest being 85, we have a few younger in their 60’s.
How’s that for the “Dunkirk Spirit” in this day and age, not giving up when the chips seem down.
 Regards Len Knight.

[ady selway]

Hello Len,
  Although I have posted a reply on the Group Messages over on Yahoo, I thought I would support you over here too. This is of course fantastic news and I am sure that everyone in Paddleducks would want to wish you and the long-suffering and ever patient team all the very best and God's speed with the project. It is through your efforts down there at Damhead Creek that Medway Queen still exists and without you and the team, she would have been lost to the elements a very long time ago.
   Some of us remember her plying to and fro across the Thames Estuary, or perhaps waiting on Herne Bay or Southend Pier. listening for the telltale thump, thump ,thump of the paddles as she appeared on the horizon. I remember standing with my Dad watching the engines go round or sitting with our back to the funnel (nice and warm, Mum preferred being there!).
   We all owe a lot to you down there in the wastes of Damhead that you have kept her safe until this time. You have gone through lots to ensure her integrity and pride are intact until help has arrived. It is here now and we all know she is in good hands. Thank you.
Ady, Celia and James Selway