‘Help us preserve Maldon’s beautiful and historic Thames sailing barges’ – charity’s volunteer plea

By Ben Shahrabi

Rich heritage - Thames sailing barges are an iconic part of Maldon's waterfront. (Credit: TSBT and Ben Shahrabi)

HELP is needed to save two historic Thames sailing barges, a Maldon-based charity has said, as volunteers are urged to come forward.

Century-old sailing barges Pudge and Centaur are both moored at Maldon’s Hythe Quay, and operated by the Thames Sailing Barge Trust.

The Trust relies on volunteers to raise funds for the maintenance and preservation of the historic vessels, but it says more help is needed.

Volunteers are urged to give up a few hours’ free time to help keep Pudge and Centaur operating for future generations to enjoy, a Thames Sailing Barge Trust spokesperson said.

They added: “Without the Trust and all its valuable members and volunteers, there may soon be no Pudge or Centaur for our children and grandchildren to enjoy. So please lend a hand if you possibly can.”

Historic - Centaur was built in 1895, while Pudge was built in 1922. (Credit: Ben Shahrabi)

“If you can offer practical skills such as woodwork, engineering or painting and decorating you would be most welcome to join a barge working party.

“These members and volunteers meet regularly on board to help keep Pudge and Centaur in tip-top condition, to stave off the ravages of time and tide which have caused the loss of so many of these beautiful boats since they ceased plying their trade in the mid-20th century.”

The Trust, which regularly welcomes visitors for open days with tea and homemade cakes, also needs “meeters and greeters” to help guests negotiate possible on-board hazards and answer their questions.

Educational - groups of schoolchildren regularly visit to learn about the history of the barges. (Credit: Ben Shahrabi)

Educational visits are held several times a year, welcoming children and youngsters from uniformed cadet groups to learn about the region’s maritime history.

Trust volunteers work alongside barge crew members to look after the young visitors, so they feel safe and happy on board.

For sail - the Trust's pop-up shop sells bespoke items to raise funds for the barges. (Credit: Ben Shahrabi)

Meanwhile, the Trust’s “pop-up shop” regularly opens on the quay, manned by members and volunteers. It sells books, clothing and souvenirs all linked to the barges and their part in local history, to raise charity funds.

Anyone wishing to become a volunteer should contact membership secretary John Rayment via email or call 07587 141054.