As one of rock’s biggest properties gets set to headline at the Mouth of The Tyne Festival, a group of nautical volunteers on the river are paying their own tribute to his musical talent.
The Northumbria Unit of nautical charity, The Maritime Volunteer Service (MVS) have christened one of their boat’s rubber fenders with the name Sam in honour of the rising star.
Head of Unit, Volunteer Officer Angela Carrington said;
“Like thousands of others, I and other members of the Unit are massive fans of Sam Fender. He’s a local lad from the banks of the Tyne where we operate from. We’ve nicknamed our largest fender “Sam” for some time now and thought it was a fitting tribute as he is playing just along the river.”
The real Sam Fender added,
“This is the greatest North Shields accolade to date. I’m absolutely honoured. I hope my face protects your boat.”
Nationally, the MVS has more than 25 active units spread around the UK coastline at major port & river areas, with more units planned. Northumbria Unit is based in Benton and at St Peter’s Marina although their vessels can operate from the Tweed to the Tees. Last year, they were deployed extensively at the Sunderland Tall Ships Race.
The aim of the MVS is to keep the country’s maritime traditions alive. Practical training in seamanship, small boat handling, engineering and communications helps to achieve this.
Membership is open to both men and women irrespective of ethnic origin or disability from the age of 18.
