In a clear sign that we are nearly done the sign writer has been busy putting the ship's name back on the bow and stern.

Most work is complete now although the balustrade rails below the new wooden handrails are still to be replaced. That should be completed very soon now and then all we need is the tug, the right tides and calm weather with the right wind direction. "Simples!"

Photo: Bob Wilde.

Christmas is coming and, as in previous years, we have produced cards featuring Medway Queen. This year's new title is "Red Bow" but the two previous titles are also still available.

All three titles are available online from our online shop but "Santa" cards are in very short supply. 

​"PANIC BUYING" RECOMENDED!!

The work continues with the preparation of refurbished safety rails on the promenade deck. 

The stanchions are painted and in place as is at least most of the new hardwood top rail. The rail sections have been steamed and bent to shape on site and will give us a better looking and much safer barrier around the edge of the deck. Hull painting too is progressing, see photos, and completion of the work not far off. Note the blue tape masking the saloon window frames.

​All we need then is the tug and a day when the weather and tide are right for the move. There is a tight limit on the swell height for towing (insurance requirement) and the tide must be high enough for our ship and the tug to cross the sandbars in the Medway.

With the ship's return from Ramsgate imminent, but with an uncertain date, the Board have been forced to find alternative accommodation for the AGM. Changing the date was considered to be too much of an inconvenience for those who travel a distance and may have booked hotel rooms.

Work progresses and the deck railing stanchions should soon be ready for fitting. Hull painting is coming on as well.

Our thoughts are turning to the ship's return to Gillingham. The tide states are favourable on 12th and 19th October. The 12th is cutting it fine on work completion and 19th is the wrong side of the MQPS AGM which is on 16th October.

Even if the ship returns on the 12th, safe access will not have been established in time, so the AGM will have to move. The management committee are discussing alternative arrangements but if you are travelling a distance to the event please take note of the ship's status. We worry that the Medway Queen Visitor Centre is too small and the workshop is unsuitable so it is likely that a hall just a short walk from the pier may have to be used. More to follow.