Team
At Raybel Charters, we are a passionate group dedicated to the restoration of the Thames sailing barge Raybel. Through our collaborative efforts, we aim to preserve this historic vessel for future generations.
Chris
Director
Once of Sittingbourne, now in Margate and baker at the Wild Bread Bakehouse Faversham. Keen forager, mushroom enthusiast ???? . New ways (or reviving old ones) to produce, grow & transport food for the benefit of people & planet.
Emma
Director
Re-connecting with her Sittingbourne roots, and bringing us her enthusiasm for intersectional environmentalism and experience of community regeneration with Global Generation in London’s Surrey Docks.
Faye
Director
Drawing on Raybel’s history and heritage to stimulate and enlighten – oral history, theatre, music and crafts. Eco-regenerator and architectural designer with a passion for sustainable design, reuse and canals.
Gareth
Director
Co-founder of Raybel Charters CIC. ‘What shall we do next?’ Heritage and social enterprise, grant-funding. Sold on sail cargo at Douarnanez, 2017 and never the same since.
Mark
Restoration Project Manager
Making it happen on the restoration, drawing on awesome arts and theatre management experience in Essex. Contact to get involved in barge work as a volunteer or to organise training.
Laurie
Shipwright
Wivenhoe, Essex born. Now based in London, living on a Dutch sailing barge. Working in London, Essex and Kent as a Shipwright and Sailing Barge Master.
Matt
Raybel Heritage Adviser
Co-founder of Raybel Charters CIC. Steeped in Raybel heritage. Forgotten more about the barge than the rest of us know.
Rob
Director
Raybel Charters co-founder, Saved Raybel from certain fate as a floating tea-shop back in 2010.
Martin
Artist in residence
Renowned woodworker with art works created on beaches, in woodlands, city centres and galleries, including Tate Modern and the National Theatre. And to cap it all, Lloyd’s Wharf Sittingbourne.
Vanessa
Director
Bringing experience of land management & sustainable supply chain projects across four continents, with Forest Stewardship Council and Soil Association. Community rights, the power of community organisation, and sustainable timber sourcing.
Ruth
Community Gardener
Ruth is a contemporary artist and gardener who is passionate about ecology and psychology. She will be encouraging volunteers to help with the gardening and greening aspects of the creek side.
Special thanks to
Tim
Shipwright
Sarah
Shipwright Trainee
Katharyn
Artist Trainee/Raybel Makers Coordinator
Heike
Shipwright/Shipwright Trainer
Alana
Shipwright Trainee
Our Volunteers
Get Involved
We're always seeking passionate individuals to join our team and contribute to the remarkable restoration of our beloved Thames Sailing Barge, Raybel. Whether you're an experienced crafts person with a knack for woodwork or a budding historian eager to delve into maritime heritage, your skills and enthusiasm are welcome.
No experience is necessary – we'll provide comprehensive training to ensure you're equipped for the task at hand.