The idea came about from a meeting with Chichester Harbour Conservancy. John Davis, the Harbour Master is keen to promote the traditional skills in order to preserve the impressive fleet of wooden boats in the harbour. The apprenticeship is being funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund as part of the Chichester Harbour Rhythms of the Tide Project.

Local schools and colleges were contacted and a number of students came forward for interview. Sam was chosen as he showed 'considerable confidence and interest in the scheme'. Sam has grown up with boats and has helped his father with restoration projects. He has sailed in the Solent and is now getting to know Chichester Harbour. He has chosen to work with wooden boats rather than GRP craft as he is particularly interested in the craftsmanship and skills needed to work with wood.

Sam will attend Southampton City College one day a week on the Yacht and Boat Building Course. The rest of the week will be spent with Tim Gilmore, the owner of Dolphin Quay Boatyard, where he will get the chance to practice his new skills and learn from other craftsmen with years of experience.

As part of the apprenticeship, Sam will work on the restoration of the Terror. Terror is the last remaining oyster boat from the fleet that worked in Chichester Harbour at the turn of the century.

MJ Information No: 19828