How It All Started - Part 3 by Mike King

In 24th September 2002 Endeavour was moved to Great Totham by the excellent Trevor Taylor and his amazing well sprung vehicle. Obviously Endeavour, even though she is female, can't talk, but had she been able to I think she would have said, "Oh no - not again! Kent to Leigh Marina, then to Strand Wharf and now another journey; I'm getting fed up with it! When do I get back in the water?"

Sails were made in modern material by Steve Hall, who also presented a huge banner which has been flown on many occasions.

But she was well looked after - even cosseted. First she was shored up to make certain her shape was kept while the work progressed, and the two highly skilled restorers - Brian Kennell and Shaun White - decided what new timber was needed, and how to proceed. Replacement oak from Belfairs wood (the first lot was stolen) opepe for the keel, pine, iroko, Douglas fir and larch - the latter from Northern Ireland. As much original timber as possible was retained, although some not in its original position, the hull planking was in poor condition, but was used to line the hold.

A decision was taken to restore her as she was when launched in 1924, with a centre board and narrower side decks - the latter having been widened when converted for shrimping.

Work progressed at a pace, with volunteers oiling the new oak and doing other essential but relatively unskilled work (lots of tea was drunk).

Completely new spars were made, as the originals were destroyed long ago, and the sails and rigging made. Well-known author John Leather had much information on the sail layout, and was extremely interested in the restoration.

Sails were made in modern material by Steve Hall, who also presented a huge banner which has been flown on many occasions.

All the hull planking was fitted to the frames with bronze wood screws, each recessed and capped with timber plugs - almost all of which were fitted by Reta Cocks.

Endeavour was completed sufficiently for a detailed survey in 2005, when it was pronounced that 'the work has been carried out to a very high standard'.

She was nearly ready for yet another move by road back to Leigh.