Heritage Open Days 2024

We were delighted to be taking part in England’s largest celebration of history and culture again this year. The festival brings people together to celebrate their heritage, community and history, and offers the perfect opportunity to see hidden places and try out new experiences!

We welcomed over 150 people on board for self-guided tours of the ship as well as rope-making and Morse code workshops and the usual Teddy Bear Hunt for the younger children. The Virtual Reality Film for was also a big hit with people of all ages having a go.

One of the highlights of the day was the afternoon’s entertainment from the band “QT Swing” (formerly “End of the Road”) featuring Tenor Sax, Guitar, Bass Guitar, Percussion and vocals. They played some beautiful Swing Jazz from the 20s to the sixties and also traditional blues. The beautiful weather meant that they were able to be out on the stern deck and everyone could linger in the sunshine to enjoy the atmosphere.

Thank you to Bideford’s Mayor for coming down to show her support on the day and to Dan Webb one of our volunteers and Skipper of Sail Training Vessel, Topsail Schooner Johanna Lucretia.

Finally, Mike Teare was there to guide people through some of the history of the harbour, chatting about eh new Heritage Harbour Status as well as the Heritage Harbour Trail.

Thank you to everyone that came along on the day – particularly the volunteers who’ve given us so much this season and continue to power this steamship with something other than steam; energy and dedication.

Tach our film of the day here > https://www.facebook.com/SSFreshspringTrust/videos/1520348578850151