‘Lost memories of the River Severn’ – guided tours through Purton Hulks

18 January 2009 – 20 December 2009

Purton Lower Bridge
Purton
Gloucestershire

River Severn»

Lost Memories of the River Severn is an intriguing programme of talks and guided tours through the remains of Purton Hulks.

Led by marine historian, L.P.Barnett, the tours of the site take place just north of Sharpness New Docks, and are the final resting place for 81 steel, timber and concrete vessels.

This amazing site is deemed to be the largest of its kind in the UK and includes varied craft such as schooners, Severn trows, wich barges, concrete lighters, and rare Stroudwater and Kennet barges. These esteemed tours have also won the Nautical Archaeological Societies’ National Adopt a Wreck Award 2007.

The tours are scheduled to take place on the following dates:

Sunday 18 January 2009
Sunday 15 February 2009
Sunday 15 March 2009
Sunday 19 April 2009 (2pm start)
Sunday 17 May 2009 (2pm start)
Sunday 21 June 2009 (2pm start)
Sunday 19 July 2009 (2pm start)
Sunday 16 August 2009 (2pm start)
Sunday 20 September 2009 (2pm start)
Sunday 18 October 2009 (2pm start)
Sunday 15 November 2009
Sunday 20 December 2009

The tours can also be accompanied on request by an historical slide-show presentation, and an extensive photograph collection. This will include information relating to original ship dimensions, cargo trade routes, former crew member anecdotes, and a description of the heroic beaching process onto the foreshore of this sleepy Gloucestershire hamlet.

The tours begin at 1pm, unless otherwise stated, and last for approximately two hours (weather permitting). Admission is £3 or donations can be made to the Severn Area Rescue Association.

For more information or to request a slide-show presentation call 07833 143 231, email barnadillo@aol.co.uk, or visit www.friendsofpurton.org.uk.