The launching ceremony was a marvel. Hick’s boats sold tickets around Hugh Town in the morning, then everyone set off to the free drink, uh, launch. The day started with a pre-launch ceremony. It followed by the launch of the Galatea, St Martin’s new racing gig. The gig itself had been in the water a couple of times to test sea-worthiness, and the crew’s abilities whilst sober. Following the launch, a four-hour celebration in the Seven Stones provided the entertainment whilst the gig was abandoned in it’s new shed. Those living on other islands left on the Kingfisher, singing wildly. The gig was funded by lottery money. Previously, the Reading Room on Tresco has also been funded by the lottery, though that was much more contrivercial. The gig will be taking part in the Wednesday and Friday night races which start later in March. The St Martin’s ‘A? Crew will be looking forward to showing her off in the World Championships and Punchbowl Trophy on Mayday Bank Holiday Weekend (Fri 4 to Mon 7, May). The launch was on Spotlight, filmed by Mark Roaves, on Monday 11th at 6:30 pm on BBC ONE. It was also on Radio Cornwall throughout the day of the launch.
