Simon's sketch book.

06/09/2026

28/08/2026

We are pleased to announce that we have reached an agreement in principle with our insurers that will allow the detailed assessment and repair of the DH.88 Comet Racer, G-ACSS, to begin.

We are launching a dedicated fundraising appeal to support acceleration of the repair works, together with an additional programme of related restoration and preservation work.

With your support, we will not only return this iconic aircraft to full flying condition, but we will also ensure that it is ready in good time for the 100th Anniversary of the race in which it made history in 1934.

Find out more: https://www.shuttleworth.org/discover/de-havilland-dh88-comet-project

📷 Darren Harbar

27/08/2026

These small steps are surplus to requirements.

A pair of wooden two tier step that l made a few years ago. Now surplus to requirements. two brass cabin hooks are included in the sale. in overall good condition. could do with a repaint. UPDATE. See new photos , I've started to sand and paint the steps. See photos for hight etc. COLLECTION ONLY fr...

24/08/2026

23/08/2026

On this day in 1989, the pleasure boat Marchioness sank on the River Thames after being struck twice by the dredger Bowbelle near Southwark Bridge, killing 51 people during a birthday party cruise.

The smaller vessel, carrying around 130 people, was hit from behind and pushed under Bowbelle's bow, sinking within just 30 seconds and leaving little chance for those below deck to escape.

An official investigation blamed poor lookout on both ships, though the process was marred by years of controversy, including the removal of victims' hands without family consent to aid identification and two failed prosecutions against Bowbelle's captain.

A full public inquiry wasn't held until 2000, over a decade later, finally concluding that neither crew saw the other vessel in time to prevent the collision.

The disaster ultimately led to greater safety measures on the Thames, including the installation of four new lifeboat stations along the river.