The owner of what is apparently a former Royal Barge, built almost 100 years ago on the Isle of Wight has been in touch with an appeal to readers.
Bruno Ballureau is the owner of Rimini (pictured), which was built by J Samuel White in 1917.
The boat is a unique and rare model that knew many hours of glory and also misfortune. In its heyday, the barge served George V and Queen Mary, but later in life worked as a tug.
Lack of resources to continue restoration
Bruno bought the boat five years ago, already in a critical condition, with the intention of saving and restoring it. Unfortunately, he’s no longer in a position of being able the continue the restoration due to lack of resources.
Bruno says,
“Today, it still floats and its motor (a Leyland motor of a British infantry tank of World War) works, but I cannot leave it in the water without restoring it.
“My only options are to sell the boat for its teak hull, bronze and engine for collectors. Or to sell for a nominal fee to a real amateur.”
Can you save Rimini?
Bruno says he’d prefer for the boat to be saved and is hoping that a keen boat enthusiast on the Island may be able to offer him a solution to his problem.
If you know someone who might be interested in restoring this piece of history, please get in touch with him by emailing [email protected]
