The Marie Claire, a long-abandoned fishing boat, is finally being removed from Exeter’s canal, marking the end of its storied but troubled history.
A crane will do the job early Wednesday morning. They’ll also be putting two new boats and a yacht into the water.
Signs are up along the canal to let folks know about the closure. From 10 PM tonight until 11 AM tomorrow, part of the towpath will be off-limits. Only people needing access to their homes can go through.
Devon County Council says this closure is for everyone’s safety while the boats are moved.
Harbour Master Grahame Forshaw mentioned it should be a straightforward task. They’re lifting the Marie Claire out and putting in two new boats made at Gabriels Wharf.
The fish farm boats are heading to Scotland, and the yacht is off to the Netherlands this summer.
The removal of the Marie Claire marks the end of a once-famous fishing boat. The owner had plans to turn it into a place to stay, but it’s too far gone now. They’ll move it to a yard for breaking up.
Built in 1945, the 98-foot Marie Claire was part of Brixham’s fishing fleet in the 50s. It later moved to Newlyn and was named after the owner’s daughter.
After engine trouble in the 70s, it was rebuilt in 1986 and became a successful trawler in the 90s. But after 66 years, it was retired and towed to Exeter for breaking.
It sank on the way to Brixham but was raised two weeks later. It then ran aground before finally ending up in the canal.
This area is set for big changes soon. Several companies, including the boat-makers at Gabriels Wharf, will be moving out for a new housing development at Water Lane.
