Crob Inson

Re tugboat Christopher James, in the late 1970's and early '80's it was moored at Hockley Port Basin, and owned by Betty and Eric Foulkes, and their son. It was used by them to clear obstructions from the pretty weeded and debris filled parts of the Soho Loop, and the Arm up to the Port. On occasion a small number of the youngsters who used to play at the Adventure Playground, and City Farm had a brief ride on it. At that time I recall it was painted in a dark browny red and a pinkey light lilac, very reminiscent of vintage railway colours. What a shame that the play and educational facilities for children, where the Christopher James was moored were eventually closed, later in that decade. A lot of people ourselves included put their hearts and souls into making it a thriving community link between the cut, and the community.