Friday, March 6th, 2004

The visit to Ely

A re-enactment to celebrate the Oxford and Cambridge boat race that took place on the Great River Ouse at Ely in 1944

Consuta was umpire boat for the 2004 celebrations

Web Link for details see Diamond44

 

Consuta loaded at the Thames and Kennet Marina ready for the road trip to Ely on the Tuesday 24th February.

Steam launch Lady Sarah owned by Gordon Chesterman towing Consuta to the marina moorings in Ely on Tuesday.

Ely Cathedral can just be seen on the skyline

Consuta on the attractive moorings in the centre of Ely.

It snowed through most nights during our visit.

Consuta being checked to see if she could perform at race speeds.

 

No problems at all, speed reached 18 mph

Here is another picture of that snowy finish of the Navy v Army race.

The Navy won.

Final duty on race day was to carry the civic dignitaries for a short trip.

Plenty of gold mayoral chains in evidence here

Nothing to do with the racing celebrations but a steam loco came along during the racing.

Looks like a Southern Railway Bullied Pacific loco, they were called 'spam cans' because of the boiler cladding shape.

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If you would like to be involved with our historic project please contact Brian Smith brian.smith@consuta.org.uk Volunteers are always needed to help maintain and run Consuta. Why not give me a call on 01488 658795

For lots more about other steam launches see The Steam Boats Association of GB