Wherry's final tour before facelift

ONE of the Broads' best-loved and most iconic boats is again on tour this summer - but this time with a touch of sadness. A dinner is being held in Wroxham to mark Pleasure Wherry Hathor's laying-up, and raise much-needed funds towards her return.

ONE of the Broads' best-loved and most iconic boats is again on tour this summer - but this time with a touch of sadness.

A dinner is being held in Wroxham to mark Pleasure Wherry Hathor's laying-up, and raise much-needed funds towards her return.

Hathor's goodbye is not a permanent farewell, but the speed of her return does depend on Wherry Yacht Charter Charitable Trust (WYCCT) reaching a fundraising target of �100,000 this year.

Work is needed to rebuild the boats' base at Wroxham, including workshops and a slipway. This is vital if the skilled and painstaking restoration work - primarily done by volunteers - is to continue, ensuring future wherry.

Sailing on the third and final leg of the tour is now underway, with spaces still available. The extensive itinerary takes in the rivers Waveney, Yare and Wensum before returning home to Wroxham. It offers sailings of a range of lengths and prices and free viewings.

Katy Walters, chairman of the Friends of WYCCT, said: “Our passengers and visitors on the tour in May and June have rallied round and supported us with bookings and donations, but we absolutely must keep that momentum going. We are determined not to let this wonderful part of the Broads' heritage be absent for very long, but we really do need help to do it. The Farewell Dinner will be a wonderful way to wrap up the tour, and we look forward to seeing many of our loyal friends and supporters there.”

Hathor's Farewell Dinner is at Hotel Wroxham, on September 17 at 7pm and includes a three-course meal, coffee and light music from local musicians. �20 per head, �10 for under 12s. To book call Pauline Simpson 01692 630674.