Photographs of the DUKE OF LANCASTER taken on May 30, 1980 when she was trading as the "Fun Ship". Some interesting comparisons are possible with the present scene [CLICK HERE]. The ship actually appears to be almost afloat and there is no evidence of the concrete barge holding her stern. This must have been placed in position at a later date. The DUKE also carried her builders plate back in 1980, though care in applying the white paint was obviously lacking! Also of interest is the fact that both the forward anchor chains can be seen. Today the starboard anchor chain remains extended presumably with the anchor buried in the quayside? The port anchor, however , has been wound up. It is also interesting to note that the small dock was also in use by some small craft at the time. The ship displays the white / black funnel as it appears on the Solitaire web site. | 
