Now the work begins

It wasn't long this morning before we were beckoned into the dock by Mick. Ian had nipped over as soon as the lads arrived at 9am and told we would be in within the hour. By 10am we pulled pins and pushed across to the dock entrance. Only a slight breeze this morning which made life easy and with Mick on hand to take the rope, and engine silenced, we glided effortlessly into position. Then Dennis brought up the rear but with a more difficult approach, John was on hand to pull Icings bow round.

Hmmm, a bit of work needed here.

During the emptying of the dock, Stephen arrived (Dennis and Margret's son). Such a welcome sight 'cause he's a dab hand at jet washing both hulls. And a very good job he does too.  Before he got going fenders were removed and Mick ashed up the gates. Marvellous what a bit of ash can do to stop leaks!

Stephen on the jet wash

During lunch the hull dried and Ian went round with the sander removing as much rust as possible. Then on with my work clothes and to get the first coat of bitumen around the water line. By 5.30pm the job was done and so was I. My hip was screaming at me to stop with the pain now spreading down the whole of my leg. Can't wait to see the consultant mid-April. Just hope something can be done. Meanwhile, the painkillers are my best friend!