Fond memories of the Bristol steam team
White Funnel Paddle Steamers in the Bristol Channel, by Mike Tedstone
From the archives of the Paddle Steamer Preservation Society, Mike Tedstone has compiled a selection of handsome black-and-white images depicting P&A Campbell Ltd vessels in action around the Bristol Channel.
Taken during the 1950s and early 1960s by the much-missed adventurer and seafarer Norman Bird, they give a delightful snapshot of the vessels and their passengers during the period. Prime position is given to the four ‘veterans’ – Ravenswood, Britannia, Glen Usk and Glen Gower – and the reader is then treated to a photographic journey around the Bristol Channel with enlightening commentary that adds much interest.
White Funnel Paddle Steamers in the Bristol Channel
By Mike Tedstone
Mainline & Maritime, £22.95
ISBN: 978 19137 97096
Buy this book in the Nautilus Bookshop
While you're there, why not browse the rest of the titles in our unique maritime bookshop, which sells all the books reviewed on these pages.
Buy nowMore Books
The precarious path from piracy to prosperity
The Resurrected Pirate by Craig S ChapmanThe Resurrected Pirate is a remarkable story told in an engaging way, illustrating for the modern reader the desperately narrow passage between life and death that a seafarer in this period might have to navigate.
Carving out a career
Ships' Figureheads: Famous Carving FamiliesThe decoration of ships with figureheads was a way to present the might of military and mercantile power for centuries. These days, the skills needed to make these sculptures are kept alive by experts such as Andrew Peters, who has worked on restoration projects such as the Cutty Sark tea clipper.
Knotty problems solved
The Knot Bible: The Complete Guide to Knots And Their Uses by Nic ComptonKnot-tying is a vital competency skill for seafarers, and this expanded edition of The Knot Bible by Nic Compton offers guidance on over 200 knots and their practical uses.
Why it's nice to splice
Splicing modern ropes, 2nd edition: a practical handbook by Jan-Willem PolmanSplicing rope is as an essential skill for seafarers as tying a knot, but some skills are disappearing. This definitive guide on why splicing gets more from your rope is a great stocking filler for all boaters, whether recreational or commercial.