Wednesday, 4 September 2013

Greenock Cut 28 August



Alan, Allan, Andy, Davie C, Davie Mc, Jimmy, Johnny, Malcolm, Paul, Rex, Robert, Ronnie

The day was clear and fine with a touch of autumn in the air as we arrived at Cornalees for the walk around the Greenock Cut. The route has been oft described before so suffice it to say that we took the anti-clockwise direction heading up the incline and then down to our usual coffee spot overlooking the Clyde and Greenock.
Coffee stop
The wreck of the MV Captayannis
The Jile
Enjoying the view
What's missing from this scene?
Some debate ensued over the sunken sugar boat,but the truth of the matter is it is the wreck of the MV Captayannis which broke free from its anchor during a storm on the evening of 27 January 1974 whilst it was waiting to deliver its cargo of sugar to the James Watt Dock in Greenock. She collided with the BP tanker, British Light, which suffered no damage but her anchor chains holed the sugar boat allowing water to pour in. Her captain beached her on the sandbank, where the crew were taken off by two small craft, but the vessel eventually rolled over and has lain there ever since. She has never been removed as confusion surrounds the identity of her owners and insurers and no-one accepts responsibility. Most, if not all, of her valuable metals and fittings have been removed by looters. Who said Scotland lacked enterprise!
Moving on we continued round the Cut until lunch was taken again with excellent views of the Firth.
Soon we were back at Cornalees, about three and a bit hours from start to finish, and were on our way to McCabe’s in Largs for FRT.

additional photos by faither




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