Forfar’s new community skiff has taken to the water in tribute to local man Greg Luckhurst.
His name graces the traditional rowing boat launched at Forfar Loch on an emotional day for Greg’s family and a proud occasion for those behind the build.
The popular plumber was just 45 when he died in 2021.
His family generously donated the funds for the boat kit after learning of the project to build a traditional St Ayles skiff for Forfar.
Maiden voyage
On Saturday they were guests of honour as the beautiful boat made its maiden trip on the loch.
Greg’s sister, Laura Thomson, officially named the skiff in the ceremony at St Margaret’s Inch.
Work on the rowing boat started in earnest in January.
The project was a partnership between Forfar Rotary Club, Forfar Sailing Club and the town’s Men’s Shed.
And the boatbuilders were given a shed at Strathmore Cricket Club to put together the 22-foot skiff.
Youngsters from Forfar Academy were also involved and the project got good support from local businesses.
It also received a Royal seal of approval from the Earl of Forfar during the summer.
The rowing boat will now be available for community use.
A second skiff kit has been bought and construction will begin next spring.
Local crews will be able to race against each other on the mile-long loch.
And Forfar hopes to welcome rowers from other parts of the country to the town.
On Saturday, Catterline and North Queensferry skiffs joined the launch event.
Swell of interest in skiff rowing
Tony Walker of Forfar Sailing Club says there is already a wave of enthusiasm around the new boat.
“Skiff rowing has really taken off,” he said.
“During Covid the sailing club wasn’t doing very well on the membership front.
“But down in Broughty Ferry the Royal Tay Yacht Club now has a situation where it has more people rowing than sailing.
“It’s a lot of work to build a boat, so I spoke to the Men’s Shed who said they would be interested.
“And through Dr Gordon Peterkin the Rotary thought it was a great idea. Their then president Tim Hale took it on as his project of the year.
“I estimate around 1,600 hours has gone into building it.
“It’s been a fantastic project to be involved.”
And he says there is already a list of around 50 people who have shown an interest in taking up skiff rowing.
The hobby has exploded in recent years and the Forfar boat is the 218th kit to be completed around the country.
Anyone interested in trying out rowing should email skiff@forfarsailingclub.org.uk
Rotarian and retired Salvation Army Major Jim McCluskey blessed the boat in Saturday’s ceremony.
New Forfar Rotary president David Stobbs said: “The members of the club are all very proud of this true community project.
“We are extremely grateful to all of our many sponsors and now look forward to seeing the skiff being used by a wide variety of organisations and individuals in this wonderful setting.”
