My Story 1900's to 1940's, JAMES TAYLER. boatyard was Building Boats (yachts, river cruisers ect) for the gentry, Kings and MPs at Chertsey Surrey. In 1937 he built, Express Cruisers including the FRAMAR LONDON. We acquired the boat in May 2012 when we were looking for a boat to go up and down the rivers around Boston, Lincoln, Nottingham and Yorkshire. By chance, while we were moored at the Glory Hole in Lincoln, a passer-by noticed us and asked if we realised that we had a very special and very famous boat? The local newspapers did a story on the boat for us as did BBC Radio Lincolnshire and with the help of the public we soon put together her history including her life as an RAF 'Flying Boat'.
It's fair to say that the Framer was in a pretty poor state when we purchased her. Being a 40ft wooden teak on oak boat with 2 big engines and streamlined hull, this boat was clearly built for speed.
We now believe she was used by MI5/SOE secret service to transport agents to meetings and submarine rendezvous.
With help we would like to renovate the framer and turn her into a floating museum to commemorate the brave men and women who gave and sacrificed so much for our freedom.
I can now confirm that both engines in Framar are Parson Engines.
After David Bradford (My Dad) removed some thick paint from a plate revealing the whole truth.
This is great news! meaning we have a genuine Historical boat for sure.
2 whole Parson engines side by side.
We currently have issues with the solenoids and this is making it hard to venture back to the old Town of Lincoln where the public like to see this glorious boat of historical marvel.
Hello I have some up-to date photos of our Boat that has some outstanding appreciation from the public.
Shoppers in Lincoln town really shown interest in this boat and some people would almost melt with joy when they look at the engines.
We have 2 large 6 cylinder old ford engines.
In her past she has been given a lot of neglect through its ages and has been known to have been sunk 4 times in its past history.
We have decided to not let that scare us and only propel us to care for for as much as we can.
I took on the boat as an aid to help rehabilitate my disability that has plagued me for over 5 years.
I have degenerating knee joints and a complicated left foot that won't move since a really bad sprain.
My dad became I'll and was advised to early retirement by his go.
I knew that my dad as always wanted to experience the water ways, so I used some of my accident money to get this boat.
It's been a very costly venture up to now and with some specialised work that is needed to be done to retain its originality
If I can get help with our boat, I am willing to use it to inspire all disabled people as well as people who just want to experience life on the river.
And at the same time I could give Framar 100% care and attention.
