Bleary-eyed commuters arriving at Hastings on their early morning train in September came across something rather strange.
The workers would have been forgiven for thinking they were dreaming when they stood before a full size fishing boat but they weren't dreaming. There it was, RX53, an impressive reminder of Hastings' rich maritime heritage and thriving fishing industry.
The vessel had been moved to the station as part of the ongoing regeneration of that area. It found its home on the roundabout in front of the station, which had been bare and scruffy for some time. Once the complicated process of transporting the boat had been completed, work began on the landscaping. A sea theme was chosen to complement the boat, so waves were sculpted in blue gravel, wooden stakes created peaks and blue lights spotted in the gravel completed the illusion and made the installation stand out at night.
Members of Hastings' fishing community played a big part, helping to find a disused boat and advising on transportation and design. Local character 'Tush' Hamilton oversaw the restoration of RX53 and most of the work was carried out by local boat builder Steve Barrow. For most of her working life RX53, known as Dorothy Melinda, was used for trawling for plaice in winter and sole in summer. More recently the boat was used for trawling and netting, and was last used in 2004.
The project was fully funded by Single Regeneration Budget money, designed by architects Jenny Exley Associates and constructed by Hailsham Roadway.
Members of the fishing community were joined by designers, landscapers and councillors at the official launch of the boat during Hastings Week. Kevin Boorman from Hastings Borough Council made a speech thanking everyone involved and explaining the history of the project.
Kevin said:
"We had been trying for some time to brighten the front of the station up. Rather than a neglected, weed-strewn roundabout, we now have a tribute to the fishing heritage of Hastings. It has a contemporary look, but also incorporates an attractive icon from our most famous industry.
It is a fantastic welcome to Hastings - the modern station building combined with the boat, acknowledging our maritime heritage."
Back to top of page...
This page last updated: 06/02/2007