On Saturday 4th July, more than 100 spectators lined the Victoria Park Pool, Bideford, to cheer on 30 cardboard boats, each built and decorated by pupils from Westcroft School, East-the-Water Primary School and St Mary's School, in this year's Steamship Freshspring Young Shipwrights Race. The project was made possible through the enthusiasm and support of volunteers from Steamship Freshspring and Navantia UK, working alongside teachers, parents and school staff to help the young shipwrights bring their creations to life.
Racing took place in two exciting heats, with changing winds adding an extra challenge as the boats made their way across the pool. The winners from each heat then battled it out in a thrilling final, watched by an enthusiastic crowd. The fun didn't end there. A special final Survivor's Race tested both boats and builders as the wind faded and the vessels gradually took on water. One determined boat completed the course, while every boat still afloat when the race ended earned its crew a Navantia UK goody bag and a Steamship Freshspring cap.
Congratulations to our winners
Young Shipwrights Trophy: Westcroft School
Best Decorated Boat: East-the-Water Primary School
Survivor's Race: East-the-Water Primary School
Steamship Freshspring Chair John Puddy thanked Navantia UK for its generous sponsorship and praised the volunteers, teachers, parents and supporters whose teamwork made the project such a success.
"This has been a wonderful example of a community coming together to inspire young people. Congratulations to every one of our young shipwrights for their creativity, teamwork and determination. We hope this experience encourages many of them to become the engineers and shipbuilders of the future."
The Young Shipwrights project continues to demonstrate how hands-on learning, maritime heritage and community partnership can inspire the next generation while creating a memorable day for everyone involved.
Pictured: Pupils from Westcroft School receiving the Young Shipwrights Trophy presented by Laura Correa Mendioroz, General Manager, Navantia UK, Appledore and John Puddy, Chair, Steamship Freshspring Trust
The Melon Boat, East The Water School, wins the trophy for Best Decorated Boat.
The Best Decorated Boat Trophy was presented by Laura Correa Mendioroz, General Manager, Navantia UK, Appledore and John Puddy, Chair, Steamship Freshspring Trust (both pictured)
