Warrington's forgotten history of boatbuilding uncovered

Martin Norris, from Cockermouth, recently had a unique boat gifted to him by an old friend - the boat was manufactured by a company that might be familiar to Warrington residents.

Martin's boat is a 'packboat,' which means that it disassembles and breaks down into three parts in order to make it more portable.

The packboat was created by Thomas Whittle and Sons, and was being distributed across the country by the 1960s.

Thomas Whittle and Sons was more known for the leather trade, and the manufacture of fan belts - it is unknown quite why the company decided to make a brief foray into the world of boatbuilding.

According to the National Maritime Museum, Thomas Whittle started in 1829 in Warrington as a currier and leather merchant.

Now, Martin wants to learn more about the history of the unique boat that has come into his possession - for the 68-year-old this is the latest in a line of boat renovations.

Martin told the Warrington Guardian: "Boats and boatbuilding have been lifelong passions of mine.

"This particular boat appeals to me because of its portability. Since my early twenties, I have been trying to find/build the 'holy grail' of boats.

"A boat that is small enough to transport and launch easily and yet big enough to be safe and capable on the water."

The Cumbrian questioned whether the 'holy grail' of boats was built by the Warrington company some 60 years ago, adding: "Did the Whittle company solve the problem 60 odd years ago? Well, I am optimistic."

Martin is trying to unravel the mystery of Warrington's forgotten past of boatbuilding (Image: Martin Norris)

Speaking about the packboat, the National Maritime Museum said: "The boat, designed for rowing or motoring, is constructed from thin plywood which is bent into a compound curve to form the bow section, the shape then flattens out to form the next two sections.

"All three are bolted together with soft rubber gaskets between sections to help make a watertight joint. Once disassembled the boat can be carried in the boot of a car or on the deck of a larger boat."

The museum explained that it's currently unknown exactly how many of these boats were constructed - making Martin's packboat a very special vessel indeed.

Martin is eager to find out as much as he can about the packboat, and is asking anyone with information to get in touch with the Warrington Guardian, where the information will be passed onto Martin.