Myrtle

From Shoreham Houseboats

Myrtle is a Thames Lighter, she is currently on mooring number 2, and has been since 2002 when she replaced Bellands. The Wood family moved into Bellands in 1974, having bought it from the Stoners (honest, that was their real name); Diane Wood, Steve Barnes and Diane's mum and dad, Tim and Babs, with Diane's kids, Laurie, Bea and Mizzy. At 110ft Bellands was big enough to accommodate the whole family, with Tim and Babs having 1/3 and Di and Steve having the rest. Babs died in the mid 80's and Tim in the early 90's. Bellands deteriated and in 2002 was replaced by Myrtle. Sadly, Diane only got to live on Myrtle for 3months before she too died. The boat continues to remain in the family- Steve having sold it to Bea, who now lives on it with her family.