Paul Barnett

Brilliant for interest top photo L-R Jonadab -George- Willie - Berkeley - Pleone - Celtic - and Nibley at far end bottom near to far Celtic - Pleone - Berkeley - Willie - George - Jonadab Hope this helps Paul

JP as you state this image is also reversed and your observations are correct... However kindly be advised the remains have moved with tidal forces over the years. Paul

Purton is formally recognized as the largest collection of this type of maritime assemblage and thus one might say - One mans rubbish is another mans collection - Once again thank you for your valued assistance and pointers.

Dear Capt'n Pegg Would you kindly be advised my colour image is one of an extensive set of photographs documenting the Lydney foreshore in the 1967 period and is correctly orientated as per. Paul

There is no doubt in your credentials Pete, forgive me should you have thought of me thinking otherwise, however like you, I have had more than a passing interest in not only the target vessel - but the entire collection of some 24 identified vessels thereon the Lydney foreshore. To this end I am overjoyed to receive your much valued information pertaining to the beached craft, which in turn has of course opened up a whole new avenue of investigation. As previously stated, my research has been guided by various references via the Fred Rowbotham and his understanding of the vessels under his command. That said may I state, I would be very happy to reconsider this very important source in the presence of the new information you have kindly provided. In line with this are you able to offer any of the following: 1) You state Venus remains - are you able to throw any further light on her sale and current whereabouts - possibly a photo or two would help immensely. 2) Regarding the Pleone, are you able to advise as per her journey from Stockley Dock, her former/owners and why/how she arrived at Lydney to be dumped. 3) Finally, are you aware of any photos of the Pleone during her working life on and off the bank. With this and as mentioned I would be immensely pleased to update the vessels identification whilst fully acknowledging your input and valued expertise. with fondest regards Paul

I could of course be wrong - but Fred (the chap in the black trench coat, hat and pipe) would im sure have recognised his own work boats name or at least what she was called when he had use of her. Note in colour and the correct way round

A little bit strong Pete and to be fair what she was called prior to being bought and used by the RSCB as VENUS - i can't say -but VENUS was her name (no pun) when she was beached and acknowledged as being beached in c. 1955 by her one time passenger and renowned River Severn River Engineer Fred Rowtham. All i am guilty of is reproducing historical fact - please forgive me - then again had her gauge plate have been left in-situ - my task may have been a little easier. Regardless i would be more than happy to consider your views Pete should you wish to present further evidence as like you im am most keen to accurately record this wonderful collection.

It's ok Phil I'm the Chairman of the Friends of Purton...... So thank you so much for the plug...... For clarity 36 vessels within the Purton collection have been marked with plaques whilst a further 5 have been erected along The Sharpness to Gloucester canal.... What I'm now involved with is haveing the remains of Lydneys 24 marked in a simular way so am desperate to secure sponsorship for them.... Moreover I am currently compiling a Lydney section on the Friends website.... See www.friendsofpurton.org.uk for info and contact details.....

Fantastic I would love to see them... And the fine vessel shown is the Newport built Severn Trow Jonadab part of which isnow to be found 2 miles across the river at the northern extreme of the Purton Hulks see www.friendsofpurton.org.uk

Is this negative presented here.... the wrong way around....how splendid

Sadly the vessel in question is the RSCB workboat Venus I'd love a copy of this image for the newly formed link the Lydney Hulks coming soon