Trawler returns to town carrying skipper's ashes

A classic sailing trawler has returned to Brixham for the first time since a £1m refit, carrying the ashes of a former skipper.

Colin Mawbey sailed the Vigilance BM76 to Plymouth for major repairs in 2022 and his family said he hoped to be at the helm when it returned to the town.

Mr Mawbey died last year, but his family were able to arrange for his ashes to be on board when the sailing boat made the trip on Tuesday.

Upon arrival in Brixham, there was a short ceremony on board.

Rob Murray, chairman of the charity which owns and operates the trawler, said Mr Mawbey had passed away after a "long and distinguished link" with Vigilance.

He said: "He was very fond of the heritage trawler, which he called 'The Leaky Wench', given the boat's tendency to take on water.

"We were very pleased to honour's Colin's significant contribution by having his ashes on board for the return trip.:

Mr Murray said the ceremony was "a fitting way" to remember the former skipper and pay tribute to all he contributed to Vigilance.

Vigilance is expected to return to service in 2026, her centenary year, when she will become Brixham's main tourist attraction - taking people for trips along the coast of the English Riviera.

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