Bures Coracle Regatta
Our event is all about meeting up with like minded people and paddling around a bit. Everyone is welcome to join us from beginners to experts. We are all about getting people on the water and enjoying these historic craft.
Don't throw out any excess calico cut from the boat during construction, as this can be used to make patches should the skin be punctured or torn. Excess bitumen paint should also be kept for regular maintenance - bitumen paint will keep for a long time if stored correctly
To apply a patch, cut the calico to a size a couple of inches or so (approx 5cm) larger than the tear. Paint the affected area of the boat and the underside of the patch with bitumen paint. Place the patch over the affected area and paint over the patch with bitumen paint. Take care to remove any creases or air pockets before painting the top of the patch, as these may reduce the effectiveness of the patch
For quick, temporary repairs out on the water, keep a supply of waterproofing tape (Denso or Sylglas tape), disposable gloves, a sharp Stanley knife and a couple short lath offcuts as your puncture repair kit. Cut the tape to cover the puncture (use the offcut lath as a cutting board), firmly press onto the skin and leave a few minutes to adhere. Repair with a patch as above when you return home
There is not really a limit to the number of skin repairs that can be made, though when repairs start to fail or when you have a large number of repair patches across your coracle skin, this is probably when a new skin should be considered for your coracle
Broken laths are unlikely, but should they occur they should be attended to as quickly as possible to avoid punctures or tears to the skin. Slit the skin to access the lath and cut away any sharp edges. Cut a suitable length of new lath, soak in hot water (boiling, if possible) for 30 minutes. Affix to the outside of the broken lath, nailing through and clenching over on the inside of the boat. Repair the skin as above
24 July 2024
If you've been following our news, you will know that a new project has started this year with the aim of preserving the craft of coracles and coraclemaking, rated as endangered on the Heritage Crafts Association's Red List, for future generations to enjoy.
24 July 2024
We're looking for volunteers to help with the Five Miles From Home challenge. This may be familiar to you if you read the item in the 2023 Journal from member Gary Fruland, who took part in this international event last summer.
24 July 2024
The Society is sad to share the news of the passing of former committee member, Brian Pearce, aged 92.
24 July 2024
Ironbridge style coracle for sale. Well used but in good condition and watertight. Originally built in 1996, has been re-covered many times. Can be put straight on to the water as is, but may benefit from some light repair/restoration. Offers in region of £200 considered, buyer collects from Cheshire
Please contact Euan Raffel for further information
Our event is all about meeting up with like minded people and paddling around a bit. Everyone is welcome to join us from beginners to experts. We are all about getting people on the water and enjoying these historic craft.
The Carmarthen River Festival is back on Saturday 17th August from 3pm. (Rescheduled from July due to river conditions)
There'll be the ever popular Raft Race, Coracle Races, Rowing Race, Duck Race and FREE Canoe, Kayak & Coracle Taster Sessions.
River demonstrations with plenty of dryside entertainment, cookery demos, FREE funfair rides, children's coracle pool, climbing wall and plenty of stalls selling food, refreshments and ice cream.
Annual coracle regatta and races, plus raft race. Licensed bar and BBQ. Part of Cilgerran Festive Week
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