Name Lassie of Chester

LASSIE OF CHESTER is a wooden fishing vessel built by Crossfield of Bangor in 1937. She was one of the last Knobbies of the Conway branch of the Crossfield family. She was intended to fish the turbulent waters of the Liverpool bar. She then fished on the Dee throughout World War II and then later moved to Cumbria fishing from Fleetwood. In the Eighties she finished fishing and was left in the mud, finally to sold to Scott Metcalfe of Waterfront Marine, Port Penryhn, Bangor. Her massive 100 HP engine was removed and much of the decking and planking replaced together with re-nailing and re-caulking. In 1995 she was bought by Doug Smith of West Kirby. With continued assistance of Waterfront Marine, he carried out further refurbishment, including a new engine and fitting a full sailing rig. There has since been a continued program of maintenance and upgrading. During the winter of 2008 to 2009, she was refitted with a small low coach roof and internally refitted in a traditional style. She has taken part in many classic Regattas, earning an number of awards. Such as best of classic sail, best turned out, as well as good positions in racing results. Vessel's special historical significance: The Lassie was one of the last Morecanbe Bay Prawners to be built. She is much admired and has been featured in many journals and the TV series COAST. .