There's a regular Brigg event coming up on Saturday (March 25) which you can watch for free.
On the opposite bank - from mid-morning - you will be able to watch large cranes lifting Glanford Boat Club members' craft from dry land into the water, ready for the new season .
This interesting annual event is a sure sign that spring is on the way.
Glanford Boat Club will be holding a Lift In Party for members on April 1 to celebrate the start of the boating season.
The craft will be lifted out of the river on November 4, to be repaired and tended over the colder months.
For more about the club, based on Island Carr, off Bridge Street, visit www.glanfordboatclub.org
Despite the river water level falling during the winter period, I certain that the GBC's craft would remain floating without the danger of grounding.
ReplyDeleteThe main reason for lifting craft out is that the fibre glass (glass reinforced plastic - GRP) hulls of modern cruisers are more prone to a condition called osmosis if a GRP hull is left in the water for long periods.
Contrary to popular belief, GRP, is not fully water-proof and dampness can penetrate the fibre strands, especially if the outer/finish coat is worn or damaged....and this can lead to quite severe damage.
It is highly recommended that GRP boats are lifted out for any dampness to dry out...and for general inspection/repair...this can considerably extand the life of a craft's hull.
The traditional wooden hulls really need to remain in the water...dampness actually helps to keep the planks water-tight...if they dry-out too much, the planks can separate....this is not to say that wooden hulls should never be lifted out...planks may be dislodged and the hull may need re-caulking..traditionally this use to involve horse hair and tar pushed between the planking...although there is modern day sealants.
The caulking of the Bronze Age Brigg 'raft' was moss and laths of hazel..
KCH - RYA Coastal/Yachtmaster qualified..
Despite the river water level falling during the winter period, I certain that the GBC's craft would remain floating without the danger of grounding.
ReplyDeleteThe main reason for lifting craft out is that the fibre glass (glass reinforced plastic - GRP) hulls of modern cruisers are more prone to a condition called osmosis if a GRP hull is left in the water for long periods.
Contrary to popular belief, GRP, is not fully water-proof and dampness can penetrate the fibre strands, especially if the outer/finish coat is worn or damaged....and this can lead to quite severe damage.
It is highly recommended that GRP boats are lifted out for any dampness to dry out...and for general inspection/repair...this can considerably extand the life of a craft's hull.
The traditional wooden hulls really need to remain in the water...dampness actually helps to keep the planks water-tight...if they dry-out too much, the planks can separate....this is not to say that wooden hulls should never be lifted out...planks may be dislodged and the hull may need re-caulking..traditionally this use to involve horse hair and tar pushed between the planking...although there is modern day sealants.
The caulking of the Bronze Age Brigg 'raft' was moss and laths of hazel..
KCH - RYA Coastal/Yachtmaster qualified..