The Clyde Puffer

[haggis]

We have just watched a super program BBC Four on the history of the Clyde Puffers  and it is on catch up at https://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/b06s5n0f/scotlands-vital-spark-the-clyde-puffer  A most interesting program for anyone with an interest in those amazing boats. Some nostalgic bits about the program The Vita Spark were included. 

Sorry don't know how to shorten the link ? 

 

haggis

[Tam & Di]

I'd fully endorse that. VIC is the last puffer still running under steam, though Vital Spark is now currently being restored to join it. It includes a short trip on VIC32, owned by Nick Walker and Rachel who used to live on converted narrowboat "Themis". They bought VIC32 in derelict condition in 1975 and now operate it as a passengerboat on the Caledoniam canal and associated lochs. You can book onto it at http://savethepuffer.co.uk/history-of-vic-32/ - you even get to shovel coal (don't know if that is a pro or a con!)

 

Tam

[Iain_S]

This Vital Spark bit gets a bit complcated!

Auld Reekie (VIC 27) is being restored. She used to bear the name "Vital Spark", and was used in one of the re-makes of the Vital Spark TV series.

The name "Vital Spark" is currently borne by the Eilean Eisdeal (VIC 72), which was re-engined to diesel after military service. (I think she's currently for sale)

[TheBiscuits]

15 minutes ago, Iain_S said:

Auld Reekie (VIC 27) is being restored. She used to bear the name "Vital Spark", and was used in one of the re-makes of the Vital Spark TV series.

Not to be confused with "Old Sparky"!

 

[Theo]

On 20/01/2019 at 21:19, haggis said:

We have just watched a super program BBC Four on the history of the Clyde Puffers  and it is on catch up at https://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/b06s5n0f/scotlands-vital-spark-the-clyde-puffer  A most interesting program for anyone with an interest in those amazing boats. Some nostalgic bits about the program The Vita Spark were included. 

Sorry don't know how to shorten the link ? 

 

haggis

To shorten the link choose the text in your post that you want to make the link like this (click) then  click on the icon that looks like three little chain links and paste the url into the field.  Easy!