Appeal to preserve historic boat

Plans to preserve the historic Gipsy Moth IV sailing boat as a working national maritime monument have been unveiled.

Cowes yachting week saw the creation of the Gipsy Moth Trust, which aims to save the vessel as a national treasure and to educate young people.

The boat has been part of the UK’s maritime heritage since Sir Francis Chichester sailed her around the world in 226 days in 1966-67.

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“She can still turn heads and there is still a huge amount of goodwill and fondness for her,” co-owner Rob Thompson said.

The other owner, Ms Eileen Skinner, said: “Most people over the age of 50 remember the Gipsy Moth story and Sir Francis bringing her back in 1967.

“It inspired a whole generation of people to achieve their full potential.”