Thank you everyone, sorry for late reply but I drove straight into the marina on the way back to look for myself and take more photos.
My experience is non regarding a narrow boat - my first boat was a risk also in the shape of a Black Prince - Shetland witha V8 which everyone told me not to buy - but after I had it restored - it was the best boat at the marina. I only sold her because I was leaving for another country to do business, so she which went on to a great couple who love her, who have other Shetlands.
However - I always wanted a narrow boat or barge and was offered one in 1986 for 10K and always regret not buying it (barge)
How I came about Shilton; I was on my local marina talking to a welder about a much smaller narrow boat when he mentioned Shilton - 20 minutes later and some photos - I had made up my mind - providing she wasn't going to sink there and then and I could get the repairs done and completed within 1 - 2 years - then I would buy her.
The first words out of my mouth as I climbed down into the basin and opend the doors - never have being on a narrow boat before or seen a Lister engine was "Oh my good God"
Yes it wasn't the prettiest of sights - it then I used to work in maintenance years ago annd it had nothing on some of the properties we have attended.
I used to be an artist in a past life as well as other trades and now help businesses - so being self employed has it's flexibility on time.
Regaring being two boats - it is just one, with the origional Lister engine in good working order.Not sure who butchered it inside, but it does have some origional cupboards inside and art work.
gut instinct is - she is a nice boat - it would be nice to find out her history, where she has been on adventures and find a mooring to suit.