It’s been a very busy couple of weeks with shipping coming into the port of Rye. I work closely with our harbour master, James Bateman, as port controller. Because this often happens at the most unsocial hours, depending on the tides, very few people get to see what is required to bring these big ships into the channel and moor up at Rye Harbour.
There is a team of professionals called on duty, who meet for a briefing beforehand, and then the harbour master and his deputy Karl, plus our pilot and a rope-man travel off to meet the vessel in the harbour master’s boat. I remain in the office on radio and comms duties, directing other shipping out of the way.
The pilot is welcomed on board and navigates the ship into the channel, with only inches to spare each side. She is moored-up and unloaded, often in just one tide but sometimes two, depending on weather, how much is being carried, and onward duties. We muster again and do everything in reverse so that the vessel can be on her way to the next port. We are lucky to have a harbour master here in Rye who cares about the port, which we wouldn’t if we lost this commercial shipping.
Negotiations are ongoing with the swimming pool. Rother District Council officers and elected councillors continue to give the community working group much support, and are completely behind getting the facility open and there for the wider health of the community. We are in discussions with all stakeholders on leases, which because of their considerable complexities will take some time.
I enjoyed greatly visiting the Tuesday Painters’ private view at the St Mary’s Centre on Friday, August 11. There were some beautiful works of art there created mainly by local amateur painters. It is always a delight to welcome back this exhibition each year and all the effort that goes into curating it.
Rebekah visited the Winchelsea fete and dog show on Saturday, August 12, Sophie came fourth in a class of over 40 dogs for the prettiest girl competition (and she was the first spaniel!). Another great event in our neighbouring town, which takes a lot of hard work behind the scenes, so well done to all those involved.
We were both at the town hall to welcome back Queen Elizabeth I for the re-enactment of her visit 450 years ago. It was fantastic to see so many people taking part in this from actors, to musicians, our drummers and the town crier and his deputy all acting the part, all coming together for a multi-media arts event of local, talented people across the town. It is not often one is outdone in mayoral garb but I was very much upstaged by good Queen Bess, plus there was an appearance from King Harry too! The town was also busy with locals and visitors looking on at the spectacle. Congratulations to Simon Parsons and the team at the Heritage Centre for making this happen.
We were at the Waterworks micropub on Wednesday, August 16 for our monthly shanties, which we do for free to raise money for local charities. We will be singing swing music at the New Inn Winchelsea on Monday, August 28 in the evening so come along and join in.
Image Credits: Kt bruce , Kt Bruce , Rebekah Gilbert .