Memories of Pilot and fundraising for a new narrowboat.
Whether it was a cold winters cycle ride along the river or a gorgeous summers evening at Sea Rangers, one thing you could guarantee was seeing Pilot, the narrowboat on her mooring, patiently waiting for her next trip down the river.
Pilot has been a part of Sea Rangers and SRS Wakeful for many years. She is a 50 foot single width narrowboat with a traditional stern specially designed to accommodate up to 12 for a day trip with berths (beds) for 9.
As I reflect on my 20 years with Sea Rangers, I have come to notice the huge part Pilot has played and many fond memories I have. When I was a cadet we’d go on trips to Guildford Boat Show, proudly dressing her up for the parade. One year I made a huge paper mâché dragon’s head sculpted out of chicken wire. My nan kindly gave me many meters of green fabric which I spent hours drawing on the dragons scales. Another year Pilot was dressed up as the mystery machine from Scooby-do. This was a highlight of Wakeful’s calendar and we always went all out. We managed to place 4th one year when we entered as a scene from Terry Pratchett’s Hogfather.
Another event each year was the spectacular trips to the IWA’s annual boat festival. Pootleing (this should definitely be a word) along the river Thames is quite the experience having spent most of my time on the much quieter bendy River Wey.
I remember doing my training and getting my narrow boat license, learning all about the water, gas, electricity and running gear for Pilot. I think I learnt to drive her before I got my driver’s license! I hired Pilot for my 18th and 21st birthdays do’s.
The most recent part Pilot played in my life was the setting for the first date with who is now my husband. We took Pilot to Guildford to carry out a few service items at Dapdune Wharf. I know, ever the romantic!
Unfortunately, Pilot is now getting on a bit which is affecting her reliability. After many wonderful years gracing SRS Wakeful and the wider association with her presence, the decision has now been undertaken to consider a replacement vessel, so that future generations will continue to have the same opportunities as we had.
Article by A. Brake SRS Wakeful
If you wish to make a donation and support the project, contact Julia on julia.iskett@gmail.com or visit our GoFundMe page: https://gofund.me/f37e9f0e and thank you so much in advance for supporting our Woking Crew.
