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Hastings' Last Wooden Boat Saved by Community
13 Oct
Summary
- Thousands raised to save the last wooden fishing boat.
- RX58 Felicity, built in 1980, will be moved to a new seafront home.
- The vessel is a reminder of Hastings' ancient maritime tradition.
The last wooden fishing boat to operate from Hastings beach, known as RX58 Felicity, is set to be preserved after a successful community fundraising campaign. Over £5,400 was donated to cover the necessary modifications and repairs for the vessel's long-term conservation. Built in 1980 by H J Phillips in Rye, the 32 ft (10m) Felicity was deregistered two years ago.
Campaigners from Hastings Wooden Boats have hailed Felicity as a unique symbol of the town's maritime heritage. The boat, also recognized as a lugger for its distinctive sail, was originally named Our Pam & Peter. Its subsequent owner renamed it Felicity, a name that has since endured. The vessel is planned to be relocated to a prominent spot outside The Dolphin Inn on the seafront.