History reawakened - Another great vessel for the Isle

Marine and motor enthusiast Mal Nicholson has acquired a new ship to join his Spider T, the last remaining Humber Super Sloop that is moored at Keadby.

Mal, of Burringham, said he is very excited to have bought the replica tall ship Schooner Pickle. The historic schooner is to be sailed back from Gibraltar, where she has been undergoing repairs by former owner Robin James over 18 months.

The H.M.S Pickle original sank in Cadiz Bay in 1808. Her recreation was completed for the 200 anniversary of the Battle of Trafalgar in 2005, as ‘Pickle’ was the very famous ship that carried the news to King and country of the win, along with the sad loss of Admiral Lord Nelson. “It is probably one of the greatest sea stories ever told,” said Mal.

The craftsman has not finalised his plans for the ship as yet, but said of his latest project: “A whole new adventure starts here.”

He has promised that he will get her sailing and that she will be for everyone to enjoy, in the same way as he has shared the 62-feet Spider T, after bringing her back to life from the wreck that she was formerly.

Mal added: “Thanks to Robin, Nelson’s Schooner Pickle has won many friends and supporters, and in his tenure as owner and captain she has achieved amazing things. I hope that the future of HMS Pickle and Spider T is bright and full of adventure.”

Enthusiasts can keep up with the ship on the Nelson’s Schooner Pickle Facebook site that Mal is to take over and will use to post up future plans.

Facebook interest in Mal’s latest acquisition has already been very high. Followers were delighted to hear that there are ‘three cannons on board’.

It was noted that the vessel featured in a television series The boats that built Britain, when Tom Cunliffe sailed her, referring to her vital role in British war history.

Robin James owned ‘Pickle’ for nine years. He said “This decision to sell has been made far easier by finding Mal, who I trust to continue to care for the Pickle and get her sailing again while sharing her.”

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