Name the boat

As regular readers will be aware, a new attraction linking Audlem, the Overwater marina, the Secret Bunker and Nantwich is being planned and will be launched in the Spring. The deadline for suggestions for the boat's name is now virtually upon us.

Last minute entries will be accepted up to 2.30pm today. Audlem Online launched a competition last month to find a name – all suggestions are welcome. The prize will be a ride on its maiden voyage – which may rule out Titanic from the likely winners!

Thomas Telford was an early suggestion but is probably ruled at as it's unlucky to name a boat after a man. Shroppie Flyer or Fly were amongst the early runners and, given that the launch may coincide with the Royal wedding, Princess Kate or, with due deference, Princess Catherine could be topical. Queen Camilla might have to wait for a sister ship to be launched sometime in the hopefully distant future.

Sea trials of the 16ft long whaler are already underway with coxswain Rod Cottrell. Rod is photographed here with Janet Maughan of Overwater Marina.

A team of volunteers has been recruited to help operate the attraction. With funding assistance now confirmed from Visit Chester & Cheshire, the boat is to be purchased by Rod. Sea trials of the borrowed 16ft whaler continued over the winter and the boat will now be be fitted out with seating for twelve passengers, weather proofing covers, safety equipment and a new engine.

It is expected that the boat will go into service after Easter. The question is, what should the vessel be called? Suggestions, please, to editor@audlem.org">editor@audlem.org or to the Chatbox but by 2.30pm today, please.

Already, a good number of suggestions, ranging from the obscene to the obsequious with much of merit between, has been submitted. The distinguished local panel of experts is meeting today. All suggestions will be considered.

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