Posted by Magnus on March 17, 2010 at 13:25:31 user Magnus.
In Reply to: A good place for the Turks "Swallow" posted by Stuart_Wier on March 17, 2010 at 11:46:29:
Both the NBT and TARS are aware of this auction, and it seems both of them feel this is not a suitable purchase (see discussion on the TARS forum, plus there were a few emails between NBT members).
Initially, this does seem a terrible shame, but I have to reluctantly admit that their reasons are entirely valid. Even if they did suddenly find enough volunteers able to give up a substantial portion of their time, there would still be terrible logistical problems in getting this boat seen/sailed by more than (say) 20% of the UK membership, which is unfair.
However, I myself do not have to pay much attention to sense and logic, and feel inclined to live by the motto "grab a chance..."! I am happy to stake some of my own cash on this, and I know the names of 2 others who feel the same. Perhaps there are more like us, who might post their names below?!! I think a modest fund-raising effort is worth the hassle, though it is wholly possible we might be outbid.
My desire is to see this Swallow sailed by as many fans as possible, and not hidden away in a private collection. I know she was never owned by Ransome himself, but she has enough connection to warrant an attempt to purchase. Indeed, it is because she is not as precious as the original Swallow, that the new owner could risk getting her wet!