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A very enjoyable afternoon cruise up the river blackwater yesterday onboard the worlds last sea going paddle steamer the SS Waverley. An old boat 75 years old or thereabouts which puts on a surprising turn of speed leaving many smaller craft in its wake. We set off from Clacton pier at 3pm with commentary provided firstly by their resident commentator, then Ray Clarke took over with his humorous but informative delivery concerning all things RC. Plus of course a plug or two for the book (and why not) I spotted several past and present RC DJ's on board, together with representation from BBC Essex and the Pharos trust (LV18). As we approached the Ross, I noted the colour of the ship which is no longer the vivid red that it once was, more like a dirty brown colour; a mixture of approx 50% rust and 50% discoloured red paint. We passed Ross revenge first on her starboard then did a 180 and came back on the port side to a cheer of oggy oggy oggy, (Ross); Oi Oi Oi (Waverley) I think I caught sight of PM peering round the door of the bridge. I note the general demographic of the passengers on the Waverley ranging from late middle age to down right decrepit; a reminder if any is needed that fans of the pirate era are not getting any younger and one wonders what the future holds for radio given the appalling state of what we are served up by the big conglomerates these days. RC to me remains a bright spot in my radio listening. Long may it continue. A privilege to sail on the last sea going paddle steamer to see the last surviving north sea radio ship. All the best to all on board both vessels