The Guide of Dunkirk, a historic Watson Class lifeboat that played a role in the evacuation of Allied soldiers from Dunkirk during World War II, is set to undergo a complete restoration with the support of West System Epoxy.
The 38ft vessel, recognised as one of the famed ‘Little Ships of Dunkirk’, is being restored by Abbey Boat Builders with a relaunch planned for spring 2026.
Built in 1939 by Rowhedge Iron Works in Essex and initially funded by the Girl Guides Association, the Guide of Dunkirk was intended to serve as an RNLI vessel. Instead, she was called into service from the yard for Operation Dynamo in June 1940.
On her first mission, she transported troops from the beaches to larger vessels before sustaining heavy damage under enemy fire. After being towed back to England for repair, she returned to Dunkirk and continued to evacuate troops under intense conditions.
Now at Abbey Boat Builder’s yard, the vessel will be rebuilt to preserve her wartime heritage while being adapted for safe community use. The restoration will combine traditional craftsmanship with modern materials.
Abbey from Abbey Boat Builder explains: “Throughout the restoration, we will be running workshops in rope making, blacksmithing and boat building to encourage craftsmanship as a career and to bring boat building and traditional crafts to a wider audience.”
“She spent her life saving lives, and now it’s our turn to save hers. To have the support of West System Marine & Industrial will be invaluable to the project as we embark on her restoration. We plan to restore her to her original concourse condition with only some minor tweaks to the internal layout to make it safe to run community trips on the river with young people,” adds Abbey.
Sam Oliver, Wessex Resins & Adhesives, adds: “We’re delighted to sponsor Abbey on this historic project. Abbey’s decision to use West System on the Guide of Dunkirk is a testament to the trust she places in the quality and reliability that are essential for such a historically significant vessel.”
A co-sponsor of the project, Ben Catchpole of Marine & Industrial, comments: “We are incredibly grateful for the opportunity to be involved in the restoration of this historic lifeboat, especially as it’s being undertaken by one of our valued customers. It’s a privilege to co-sponsor with Wessex Resins & Adhesives. Bringing this vessel back to life is truly rewarding, and we’re honoured to contribute to a project that reflects both passion and heritage.”
“This restoration is a commitment to preserving a piece of maritime history. The longevity and structural integrity provided by West System are crucial for ensuring this historic vessel can continue to tell its story for generations to come. We are honoured to be a part of Abbey’s meticulous craftsmanship and a vital component in keeping history alive,” adds Oliver.
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