Appeal launched to save the 'grand old lady' of North Devon fishing village

Villagers have launched an appeal to save the ‘soul of Clovelly’ – a little red boat named Neptune.

For more than 50 years Neptune has carried visitors along the coast, hauled lobster pots and kept the village fishing traditions alive for generations.

But to continue operating and to meet modern maritime legislation requirements, she needs restoring and upgrading, so a £5,000 appeal has been launched to ensure Neptune can continue serving in Clovelly for many years to come.

A GoFundMe page has been set up on behalf of Stephen Perham, the Clovelly Harbour Master, by his daughter Daisy and has already raised £2,000 towards their goal.

Above and below: Clovelly fisherman and harbour master Stephen Perham with Neptune. 

Daisy said: “My dad, who has featured on television many times over the years talking about Clovelly, has worked Neptune for decades and she has supported three generations of our family.

“Now, after a lifetime of service, she needs restoration if she is to continue fishing and remain part of Clovelly’s heritage.”

Neptune was built in Appledore in 1958 and was brought to Clovelly in 1970 by Daisy’s grandfather.

Above and below: Neptune BD69 has been a working part of Clovelly harbour for more than 50 years.

She has been a common site at Clovelly’s stunning harbour and has performed a variety of roles, taking passengers on trips, hauling lobster pots, long-lining and fishing for herring, the ‘silver darlings’ the village was once renowned for.

Above: Lobster fishing is a traditional industry at Clovelly – here, Stephen Perham shows some interested youngsters his catch.

Below: Over the years Neptune has carried out a variety of sea going tasks from fishing to transporting visitors along the coast.

Daisy added: “She is woven into the memories of locals and visitors alike, many who still remember their first trip to sea aboard her. She’s proper beautiful.

“Now, after decades of loyal service, she needs our help. Without care and restoration, her story risks coming to an end.

“This means future generations can still experience the joy of stepping aboard her, and the village can continue to share its proud fishing traditions through her.”

Above: Neptune has served three generations of the Perham family, with Stephen’s dad and Daisy’s grandfather Gordon pictured here.

If you would like to make a donation to ensure Neptune is a familiar sight at Clovelly for many years to come, please go to https://www.gofundme.com/f/save-neptune-the-grand-old-lady-of-clovelly-harbour