IT’S all hands on deck for Bramble, as the man at the helm of her restoration needs some TLC himself.

Co-ordinator of the project to get the 1934 working boat looking ship shape, Jim Amos, will undergo a hip and knee replacement in June.

He will have to take a back seat from grafting until he is recovered.

The Shuttle wants more volunteers to get on board and transform the interior of the cabin, by creating wooden panelling and a folding table, chairs, bed and bench for the living quarters. Previous experience is not essential and wherever possible, helpers work in pairs.

“We would be very grateful to hear from anyone who can offer some practical support with the restoration of Bramble,” said Mr Amos. “We have been amazed by the support offered so far and would love to hear from potential volunteers who would like to support the project.

“No experience is necessary. We also want to take this opportunity to thank everyone who has supported the project so far through donations and in kind support, particularly the Shuttle team and my fellow volunteer, Richard Thomas.”

Weather permitting, Mr Amos will be available to discuss Bramble at the Stourport Canal Basins Heritage Weekend on May 5 and 6, from noon to 4pm.

Visitors will not be able to board Bramble but can hear about the restoration plans and as much as is known of her history.

Meanwhile, our fundraising appeal for the money to return Bramble to her former glory received a helping hand from Kidderminster Indian takeaway, Spennells Tandoori.

After pledging half of the profits from orders on Monday, April 23, manager and chef Tazul Islam dug deep and boosted his total to £120, with a personal donation.

“I want to say thank you to all our customers for eating on the night,” he said. “I am looking forward to taking my four children to see Bramble as she starts to take shape.”

To volunteer call Liz Sheerin at the Stourport Forward office on 01299 822827.

If you or your school or group can organise a fund-raising event, contact The Shuttle and we will help publicise it by featuring it in our weekly coverage of the appeal.

If you wish to send a donation, make cheques payable to Stourport Forward Limited and send them to Jennifer Meierhans, at The Shuttle, 6 Towers Buildings, Blackwell Street, Kidderminster DY10 2DY.

Please include your contact details as Stourport Forward would like to respond with letters of thanks to all those supporting the appeal. If you can help with materials for Bramble’s refurbishment, contact Jennifer Meierhans on 01562 633346.

For more details of the appeal, contact Shuttle editor Clive Joyce on 01384 358282.