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SEVERN SEA TOWS SS FRESHSPRING TO BIDEFORD

SEVERN SEA TOWS SS FRESHSPRING TO BIDEFORD

KML are pleased to have successfully assisted in the tow of the heritage steamship, SS Freshspring from Gloucestershire to Appledore, Devon.

New Ross One commenced the first part of the tow of SS Freshspring in July, along the river Severn in Gloucestershire from Newnham-on-Severn to Sharpness, the first time she has moved any distance for over 20 years, marking the start of works enabling Freshspring to be saved and be moved to a public location in the North Devon town of Bideford.

On Wednesday 21 September, the Severn Sea completed the tow of the SS Freshspring, arriving safely in Appledore on 24 hrs afterwards.

Built in 1946, SS Freshspring is recognised as being of national historical significance on the National Register of Historic vessels. She was the last of 14 Fresh Class water carriers, all of which were 121 feet in length and were powered by a triple expansion steam engine. Her duty was to replenish Naval ships with fresh water for use in boilers and she also acted as a fire tender when required.  SS Freshspring has been designated as of national importance as she uniquely represents the small steam coasters which served the nation for over 100 years. We understand she is the only small steam cargo ship with the capability of being returned to seagoing condition.

Sacha Hall, skipper of Severn Sea, said "It has been a great privilege to be able to be involved in a small part of the resurrection of an important part of British maritime history.  These ships show the shipbuilding skills that Britain was once famous for."

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