Restoration to begin on disaster lifeboat (From Darlington and Stockton Times)

Restoration to begin on disaster lifeboat

5:22pm Tuesday 15th December 2009

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A LIFEBOAT involved in a rescue disaster nearly five decades ago was yesterday given shelter from the elements months after it was bought on an internet auction site.

In a tricky operation, members of the East Durham Heritage Group moved the Seaham lifeboat George Elmy from the town's harbour to a nearby industrial unit, where it will be restored.

Volunteers were also given £1,000 towards their project by Durham Miners' Association.

Nine men died on November 17, 1962, when the George Elmy was overturned only 30 yards from Seaham Harbour's South Pier by two huge waves.

The dead included all five crew members and four fishermen they had just rescued.

Donald Burrell, 32, who had been on the fishing coble, was the sole survivor.

Durham Miners' Association president Dave Guy said: "I was just ten years old at the time. The whole community was shocked by it. I think restoring the boat is a fitting memorial to the people who were prepared to risk their own lives to save others. I am delighted to see it back in Seaham."

Heritage group treasurer Brian Scollen, who saw the boat on eBay earlier this year, said it was hoped the George Elmy would be restored in time to mark the 50th anniversary of the tragedy.

The boat can be viewed by members of the public at Unit 11, Seaham Grange Industrial Estate, Seaham, from 10am to 2pm this Saturday and on December 19. To donate to the restoration, call Mr Scollen on 07742-487804.

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