Please help us to replace our old, polluting, petrol outboard motor with a nice new eco-friendly electric one.

The Ferry at the Cathedral in Worcester has existed for hundreds of years. Even Sir Edward Elgar himself is reported to have been a frequent user of the Cathedral Ferry service in his youth. The current Cathedral Ferry service is manned entirely by volunteers and the profits at the end of each season are donated to local charities. Since the current service began in 1983 the ferry has donated tens of thousands of pounds to local good causes.

The Worcester Cathedral Ferry is now unique. It is man-powered, as passengers are transported across the river under oars only. It is a most serene way of crossing the river and we still only charge 50p per crossing per head!

However, the Ferry needs an outboard motor to move between her mooring and the designated ferry point at the Cathedral Watergate and for launch and recovery at the beginning and end of the season. Our present motor is an old, smelly, noisy, petrol one, which is also expensive to run and maintain.

Will you help us to replace it with a non-polluting electric one? Electric motors are much better for the natural environment, especially on the river, and virtually silent. There is also the issue of gender inclusivity. We are striving to recruit more female volunteers but find they can be deterred by the prospect of an unreliable petrol motor. By supporting us in this venture, you will give the ferry a new lease of life and keep this irreplaceable community asset going for another 600 years!!

Meanwhile, we have been very moved by a number of contributors who have made donations in the memory of a loved one but have chosen not to share their email address. If that applies to you, what a lovely tribute to the person concerned and thank you so much for your generous gift.