FLORRIE MAY

Built by Frost’s and Drakes of Tollesbury for the masters of the racing yachts as a tender for the crew.

The famous J Class and America’s Cup yachts at the turn of the 20th century were frequently laid up at Tollesbury with the iconic yacht stores used to overwinter the gear for these incredible racing vessels. Many of the local fishermen from the villages of Tollesbury, Rowhedge and Brightlingsea would spent their summers racing them.

Florrie was believed to be later used as a day trip boat off Southend. Much later in her life she was to be converted to a fishing boat and worked out of Maldon. Her days were numbered when in 2009 she was lifted up to be put on a bonfire when the yard hand noticed a slot in her keel and she was saved. In need of a total restoration she was brought by Gerard Swift who sold her to her present owner John Dyson who commissioned Gerard to rebuild her and return her to her elegant sailing days. With her fine planks and graceful lines she really is a beautiful Edwardian Lady.

To be continued..