Leaders of a venture to bring a Beverley-built steam trawler back to the Humber outlined their plans to an influential business audience in Hull.
Dr Robb Robinson of the University of Hull’s Maritime Historical Studies Centre and Paul Escreet, Chairman of SMS Towage, presented the story of the Viola at a meeting of the Hull and Humber Chamber of Commerce Hull Area Council.
The Viola was built in Beverley in 1904 and sailed off to war 10 years later with a crew of fishermen. She was in the maritime front line throughout the Great War, and has yet to return to Hull from that wartime voyage – working around the world as a trawler, a whaler and a sealer.
In 1982 the Viola was one of the vessels targeted by Argentine scrap metal merchants in the landing which sparked the Falklands War. Last month she was featured in a set of stamps which were released in South Georgia.
Hull City Council have said they will find a location for the Viola and support has also come from local MPs, and from businesses who have provided funding and expertise.
Dr Robinson said: “The Viola is an iconic vessel and will give us a chance to make the most of our unique nautical heritage and also emphasise our superb maritime pedigree when it comes to taking advantage of 21st century commercial opportunities.”
The meeting took place at the University of Hull Business School.
Phil Ascough, chair of the Hull Area Council, said: “We invited Robb and Paul to share the story of the Viola because their project is a great opportunity for our member businesses. It can add to our growing tourism offer and it is the perfect showcase for the marine engineering skills which we have in the Humber.”
