1924 Inspector’s Cabin Launch

• Oak, Mahogany and Teak construction
• Air draft : 1.83m (6ft)
• Last surveyed 2008 (copy available, all recommendations carried out)
• Antifouled August 2011

• Mercedes 4L diesel inboard engine
• Wheel steering

• 2 berths in 1 cabin
• Saloon table
• Galley with sink
• Separate heads compartment with chemical toilet (old sea toilet understood to still be available)
• Forward cockpit with helm and passenger seating
• Curtains and carpets where fitted
• Brass cabin lights

• Brass navigation lights
• Cockpit awning
• Boat Safety Certificate (expiry TBC)

Historical Information (provided by the owner)

Bure Jack is most probably the foremost of the Inspectors Launches and possibly the eldest of her class and type on the Broads.

She was built by Ernest Woods for the Port of Haven Commissioners as the first one for the River Bure.

Her keel was laid down in 1922 and was then left for 2 years to weather and receive paraffin soaking every day for preservation and then built in 1924 for service on the Northern Broads. She commenced service in 1926.

She was constructed with oak, mahogany and teak, with ice boards below the water line to break ice and enable passage for her duties.

She is laid out with a sink and toilet, etc., 2 bunks for sleeping as in those days the Inspectors worked in week about, thus having their own bunks. All these facilities are still in existence and working.

All the original fittings and lights and steering, etc. are still working as can be seen on board.

She was first laid up during the last war, although some people believe she was used for decoy purposes. No history can be found after the war until 1950 when Jack Bidwell became River Inspector and remained her Inspector for 25 years until 1975, including the transfer to the newly formed Broads Authority.

During the fifties she was fitted with a Mercedes 4L diesel engine with Johnson Penta adaption, she still has the same engine today.

On Jack’s retirement in 1975 she was sold by the Broads Authority and went into private ownership.

In 1988 the present owner purchased her from Harry Seruyes and has maintained and looked after her ever since.

Remarks

This Inspector’s Launch is a beautiful vessel which oozes character and charm. A real piece of Broads history! Currently lying afloat.