Bid to restore historic Fife boat helped by 7000 salt jars pledge

The Manx Beauty, which was built in Cellardyke 81 years ago, was brought back to the East Neuk earlier this year, and now work has started on stripping and assessing the wear and tear it has taken over the years, before the costings can be worked out.

Whatever funding the boat requires, the team will be one step closer to that goal thanks to a donation from the East Neuk Salt Company.

Founder Darren Peattie has pledged 7000 jars of salt with the Manx Beauty brand, to be sold with the aim of raising thousands of pounds for the project.

“It gives them a cash injection for the project,” said Darren. “We are willing to use our business to help them.”

Richard Wemyss, who is leading the restoration project, responded: “We are delighted to work with Darren as he is so involved in the community. It wasn’t something we were expecting. We didn’t think we’d get an offer as generous as that.”

Progress on the boat has been slow this year, as a result of the coronavirus pandemic. However, the team have been able to strip the inside of the boat and take photographs needed to create a 3D image.

The team of volunteers has also been able to prepare work it will be doing with local schools on the project, although it is not yet know whether these will be done in person or online, depending on the virus restrictions.

If you would like to get involved, email – [email protected].