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The 90-ft Sailing Barge Cambria which is 110 years old comes to Hoo for the winter

By: Medway Messenger reporter medwaymessenger@thekmgroup.co.uk

Published: 00:01, 05 September 2016

Updated: 15:23, 05 September 2016

One of the most famous Thames sailing barges arrived in Hoo Marina over the weekend to stay for the winter.

The 90 foot-long Sailing Barge Cambria was built in Greenhithe and is 110 years old.

She is remembered as the last sailing barge to ply its trade on the Thames under sail alone, embarking on her final working voyage in 1970.

The sailing barge Cambria has come to Medway for the winter

Thames sailing barges were used to transport cargo up and down the river during the 19th and 20th centuries.

They became a popular site on the river due to their distinctive red and brown sails and annual regatta known as the matches.

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The vessel was restored using £1.4 million of heritage lottery funding in 2007 after she fell into disrepair and was bought by the Cambria Trust for just £1 in 1996.

The barge is now used for training and educational purposes as well as continuing to compete in regattas.

Dave Brook from the trust said: “110 years after she was built, Cambria has had another successful season afloat and is now safely at Hoo for winter storage.

“During the winter, we will carry out vital repairs to get her ready for more private charters, racing and unforgettable experiences in 2017.”

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