We are heartbroken to share that Thames Barge Tollesbury, a Dunkirk Little Ship, tragically sank on her moorings after her electricity was forcibly switched off, despite being padlocked.

Built in 1901, this historic vessel crossed the English Channel in 1940 to rescue 270 Allied soldiers during Operation Dynamo.

Substantially restored in the 1980’s, her internal oak lining was made from the famous 'Sevenoaks' oak trees felled during the 1987 hurricane.

She became a floating pub in Docklands in the 1980’s, but suffered major damage from the IRA Docklands bomb in 1996.

We found her in 2011 and have been working to restore her to traditional sailing condition ever since.

On the weekend of the 5th of July we arrived at the moorings to discover that her power had been disconnected and she had taken on around 1m of water, submerging her engine in salt water and destroying the new internal systems and fit-out we installed.

Immediate efforts are underway to stabilise, clean and dry her out, but time is critical. Without urgent action, this vessel could be lost forever.

We are launching this fundraiser to help with:

Immediate repairs to stabilise the vessel

Emergency dry dock costs.

Further repairs to the hull and structure once in dry dock.

Engine service and repairs.

Reinstatement of electrical and other systems.

Mooring costs and ongoing care to ensure her future.

This is more than just a barge. It’s a 124 year old living piece of history, a symbol of courage, resilience and survival, and is one of only a handful left in existence.

Every pound you give is a step closer to saving a national treasure. Whether you give £10 or £1,000, your support means the world to us—and to the generations who deserve to witness this piece of history afloat once again.

Please donate if you can. If you can't, sharing this campaign with others who care about history, heritage, and heroism is just as valuable.

Together, we can raise this Dunkirk Little Ship and keep her story alive for decades to come.

With much gratitude,

Rachael and Euan