plaicemat

I think this refers to investment in alternative green fuels for the commercial shipping sector such as electric or hydrogen with LNG, LPG, methanol, biofuel and hydrogen being the main ones tested at present. I've been following this for a while, it's very interesting and strides are being made. On a more local level, quite a few inshore boats are now using petrol driven outboards although what the benefits are, I'm not sure. Terry.

I seem to remember, probably back in the late 60's, a Weymouth charter skipper used to take old cars out to the Shambles and drop them over for the same purpose. Old trick, same result. Terry.

Likewise, except I am 2 hours away. Terry.

I watched the PM's speech to Parliament, Jerry, and it seemed fairly straightforward, apart from the usual exhortation to stay at home if you can. 29th March will be the first date one can leave the home area which would suggest we can go fishing. Like me, I'm sure you can travel to your boat, go fishing and return home without coming into contact with anyone. I can assure you that I shall be travelling to Lyme Regis to collect the new toy! Terry.

Has somebody got something they want to share? Terry.

Anchor wench? Terry.

Well done Tom, you won't regret it. I'm in the process of changing boats and will definitely stay with them. Terry.

Hear, hear, keeps me going. If you can't go fishing or boating, the next best thing is playing with your toys or talking about it. Terry.

Another one for Porthcawl. Terry.

Go for it, I'm ready! Terry.

Ha, Ha, Ha!!! Can't resist an invitation. Terry.

If you want something simple yet bomb proof for thicker, stiffer lines, this is one I picked up in the States years ago, no idea what it is called but it has never let me down. rather than try to explain it, I found this vid and it describes it perfectly.

Also, did you still get your early settlers discount? I had an email from them this week reminding me that I hadn't settled and that the cut off date was approaching, this despite the fact that I had paid on the 8th January and sent the contract in the day after. All sorted with a phone call. Terry.

I do the same with fly tier's UV glue, if you get the medium it doesn't go hard. I would add that I only use it when joining braid to nylon for which I use the improved FG knot. Terry.

Yes, I agree, I shouldn't be surprised. However, the thing that got me the most was three days for experts with all the tools, jigs and patterns available to fit a windlass. Have I missed something? Terry.

O/k, here's the thing, I've been thinking about fitting a windlass. Been online and found that I can buy a Lewmar V700 model for about £550 and this is the recommended one used by Jeanneau and, despite being an old fashioned engineer (no computerised machinery in my day) I thought I might get it fitted as I do not live in the same place as my boat. However, I looked at it in detail and can't believe it is that difficult so got a quote from a Poole firm who specialise in this sort of thing and are Lewmar agents. Imagine my shock when I get a quote which put the purchase price of the unit at £873, o/k, I know you pays your money and takes your choice. What really shocked me was the fitting charge of £996 plus £20 for 'other stuff', this being based on 3 days work. Really, three days for an experienced company to fit a winch? Total bill, £2242 including VAT. I may be thinking again. Terry.

Ooh! I think we all know you're qualified, Jim. Terry.

A very happy birthday Paul, my goodness, it's been a long time. A very happy cake day Ian, hope all is going well down there, I miss our occasional get togethers and looking forward to when they allow the covaxxed to socialize, not holding my breath though. Terry.

I'm certain my wife doesn't realise what I go through to put a bit of food on the table. Terry.

No Pete, it's today, like the Queen, tomorrow is probably his official birthday. So, happy birthday old chap, don't be wasting all that pension money on frivolous things. Terry.

A very Happy Brian day to you, don't miss an opportunity to remind everyone you meet, i.e. she who must be obeyed. Terry.

And keeping safe so there is a next birthday. Happy Cake Day youngster. Terry.

Obviously one of life's optimists. Terry.

I have yet to refine my technique, this will be saved for when I can practice. As you know Martin, I am a very amateur wrecker having only done odd trips on clement days in my Warrior, with a certain amount of success, I have to say, As the screens will be banked one behind the other, I imagine I will navigate with the nearer one being on chart and then when arriving will change over so we can see the nearest one from the cockpit, they will both be 9" screens, big enough on my small bigger boat I think. Terry.

My thoughts exactly. Terry.