Looking for an eager team of hearty sailors

A BOAT-OWNER who lovingly restored a wooden trawler at Mylor is now looking for a volunteer crew to help him sail her.

The Donna Capel was launched for a second time in August 2008 and since then has taken part in a small number of events. Now her owner John Davison wants to "get more serious" and is keen to hear from enthusiastic sailors.

The 2008 relaunch of Donna Capel, whose owner is seeking crew members. Picture: Colin Ross
The restored Donna Capel, out on the waters with new owner John Davison.

"I have been sailing for years but haven't got any yacht master qualifications, but plan to do it this year. I would like to have a pool of voluntary crew who I can then get trained."

Mr Davison will pay their expenses.

The Donna Capel was built in Ostend in 1943 and originally named Francoise Helene.

In the 1960s she was bought by a fisherman called Howard Capel, of Mousehole, who named her after his wife Donna.

She was subsequently bought by Terry Heard, of Tregatreath boatyard in Mylor, in the 1970s. His son Martin, who died last year, restored her in his father's memory and the Donna Capel was sailed for about eight years before falling into disrepair.

Mr Davison bought her in 2000, gutted her and covered her in tarpaulin. She remained in that condition for six years until, in 2006, a rebuild began. Since her launch she has been moored at Falmouth.

"I want to take her to France and the Isles of Scilly for specific events and to the Fowey Daphne Du Maurier week. I want to get the sea miles under my belt. I am looking for anyone with enthusiasm and a love of sailing old gaffers."

Mr Davison also owns a Falmouth Working Boat, the oyster dredger Ivy.

Anyone interested in becoming a crew member can contact Mr Davison on 07836 327926.