I have just aquired merlin 1901, and know nothing about it. has anyone got any ideas as to what it is? seems to be in sound condition and should make for some fun but wet outings.

According to the Class 2005 year book your boat is "Cobweb", a Proctor IXb - the most successful design of its era and still a legend in light weather. It was built by Chippendale Boats who were as good at building boats as their ancestors or namesakes were at chairs. If you were looking for a well built classic design which will give modern boats a run for their money in light stuff you couldn't have done better. Have you found the Vintage Wing on the home page yet. They will welcome you with open arms as will your nearest Merlin club.

Uffa Fox's books written between 1930 and 1950 act as yotty version of "The gentleman cabinet makers directory" & "Cabinet makers and upholsters guide" 1754-1788 Jack Chippendale has noe finally retired but unrill a few years back was making excellent modern Broads Racing Cruisers ("STORM") and some excellent rowing skiffs of which I have an example bought in the hope of helping reduce brewers goiter but sadly little used! A silly point but gieven the title REx King who had the first Proctor mk 9 ("Clueless" 652 (I think?) also had the first 9b 1852? called it "Clueless B" ! Sadly Rex another great character who won a race in the Championships in 1968 in "Clueless B" at Falmouth claimed he'd been chased round the course by a shark! {Perhaps we should devise a MR Triviual Pursuit?)

cheers guys, i knew i would get an explanation! well restr assured she will be out next year, although as it will be the first merlin i have ever been in, i guess i will be seeing alot of the plate! should be fun!