Model Boat Show, Tividale

     Sandwell Model Boat Club put on another excellent show on March 17th at Tividale Comprehensive School, near Dudley in the West Midlands. This annual event incorporates their members' Scale contest for 'Best Boat In Show' and is open to the public, admission free.
     Judging is by the membership and, though it is not particularly scientific in its assessment, proves popular with the members, avoiding arguments. The usual requirements of accuracy relative to the original and skill in construction are adhered to but the overall appeal of the craft is also considered.
     A wide variety of models were on show, including:- galleys, galleons, warships, tugs, paddle steamers, pleasure boats, narrowboats, fishing boats and racing boats. This year's winner was, for the third year running, Tony Butler with his lifeboat 'Cornish Lady', complete with launching tractor. Second place went to Noel O'Donovan's galley, third was Thomas Green, who also won the 'Best Junior' trophy, with a narrowboat, and fourth was Karl Howell and his research vessel. Thomas Mould won second Junior place with his cabin cruiser 'Jacqui'.
     The Club's 'celebrity' member, Dave Harrold was there with his ELECTRA trophies for fast electric racing. Dave has won numerous awards for his racing prowess and these include:- 1998 - 1st - Hydro 1 (7 cells), 1st - Hydro 2 (12cells). He has also set a new Hydro speed record of 37.6 m.p.m. with a 'stock' motor.

A general view of the show with Dave Harrold in the left lower foreground, facing the camera.

Another view of the show.

The winner of the 'Best Boat In Show' - Cornish Lady by Tony Butler.

The second place 'galley' by Noel O'Donovan.