Fishing boat, built by veterans, for veterans, sets sail in Plymouth
A new fishing boat has been named, with a mission to transform the lives of ex-service personnel
A new fishing boat has been named, with a mission to transform the lives of ex-service personnel who have slipped through the traditional resettlement net.
Designed and built by Plymouth-based charity Greenhook Fishing, the Geoffrey Rowe is 28ft long and based on a traditional 'Plymouth Hooker', common around city waters in the late 19th century.
Supported with funding from The RANK Foundation, Devon Community Foundation, and Mr Bernie Rowe, the Geoffrey Rowe has taken 18 months and £80,000 to build.
Eight volunteers - many of whom are ex-service personnel themselves - have been involved in the building of the boat, gaining important skills, confidence, and community along the way.
Greenhook Fishing intends to build a fleet of SeaFish-certified fishing vessels, all under 10m in length and powered by sail or oar, meaning they can fish sustainably and with minimal environmental impact.
Greenhook intends to create Cooperative ventures that provide jobs and training opportunities for ex-service personnel and others in boat building, fishing, and related industries.
Named the Geoffrey Rowe, in memory of the brother of Mr Bernie Rowe, who wished to create a living memorial to his brother, this is the first vessel to be completed by the charity set up in July 2014.
Ken Bromage, founder and trustee of Greenhook Fishing said:
"The completion of the Geoffrey Rowe marks an important point in Greenhook's development as we move from being a charity to the establishment of working cooperatives in Boatbuilding and Fishing.
"The aim is to now create long-term sustainable employment and a supportive community for individuals who have found themselves marginalised within society."