July 2024

The disappointment of our aborted steaming in June was quickly put behind us. The boiler was allowed to cool and the contents discharged to a level below the offending injector check valve enabling the internal components to be removed for inspection. The valve itself had not positioned correctly onto its seat, so the valve was duly repaired, re-machined and refitted. However is if valve failure was contagious, when testing the main deck hydrant valve, the spindle sheared, so we had to buy and fit a replacement valve unit. It does however demonstrate the importance of regular checks to equipment and fittings on vessels the age of Kerne. The boiler was refilled and fires lit again and steam raised slowly to working pressure and this time the valve behaved itself. More importantly, we were able to invite the Boiler Inspector to examine the boiler under full pressure and witness the safety valves lifting at the requisite pressure. He pronounced the boiler fit for service and signed the all-important certificate. Whilst the injector valve issue assumed the position of No. 1 in terms of importance, the so-called summer weather enabled work to start on the after deck where water had penetrated beneath the paintwork. Paul, the Ship’s Mate uses any excuse to get out our high-pressure jet wash, and with lance in hand, he quickly blasted off the offending paint – but just as it dried off - it rained! When it did dry, rust cure was applied and two pack epoxy paint applied. After hastily getting a crew together, Kerne sailed from Sandon Dock and out of Langton Locks into the Mersey on the afternoon Friday 26 July. After a short but enjoyable amble up and down the river, at high water the gate to Canning Half Tide Dock was lowered, the pedestrian bridge swung, and Kerne sailed into the dock, berthing alongside the Pumphouse Pub where she will remain on public view for several weeks during the summer holidays. She will be manned most Saturdays, so it you fancy a look, head for Canning Dock.