John McVea, class captain of the now 100-year-old River Class which sails regularly at Strangford Lough Yacht Club, had been looking forward to a 2020 season of centenary celebrations. Covid 19 put paid to that, but one achievement which has materialised is the publication of a beautifully illustrated history of the class.
The fact that only 12 yachts were commissioned a century ago and that all 12 are still seaworthy is remarkable, a testament to both the boats and the many owners over the years. Sadly, not all have been launched this year due to the Covid restrictions.
"The fact that only 12 yachts were commissioned a century ago and that all 12 are still seaworthy is remarkable"
Compiled by James Nixon, who himself owns with Faughan with David Lindsay and John Witchell, the history is a 207-page limited Hardback edition of 100, in A4 with a dust jacket and lavishly illustrated.
River class racing on Strangford Lough
The book appeared just in time for Christmas. James has acknowledged the assistance of a great number of people "Many of you helped me in the three-year-long task, and some have even sailed in these great boats. I also found much material in the Public Record Office and in the Newspaper Library in Belfast".
The back cover of James Nixon's new book on the River keelboat Class
You can read more about the River Class here
The book retails at £30 and is available from James Nixon. +44 7811 397546/+44 28 9754 3336 or email [email protected]
