A boat builder is hoping to help people in need find their feet – or at least their sea legs.
Phil Medlicott, who lives at Kelpie Marine Boat Yard in Roxton, has launched a crowd funding scheme in a bid to set up a community enterprise.
The scheme would see people entering a rent to buy scheme for a houseboat. He has also applied to rent part of the marina,with the hopes of setting up a community where people can find mutual support.
Phil explained: “I’m aiming to provide a boat for around 10 people to start with. It’s a non profit company, all the money will go into the work.
“I have had some horrible things happen to me during my life. It would be nice to be able to do something for other people who have had similar experiences to let them know there are still nice people out there.”
Phil, who built his own houseboat, added: “This community boat building project also aims to bring self-built affordable housing to those who otherwise couldn’t afford it or to those whose circumstance prevents them from fulfilling a dream.
All initial donations will go towards registering as a CIC and obtaining a location for the community. Any further donations will go towards building materials and tools in order for the work to start.
To find out more visit {http://www.crowdfunder.co.uk/renttoownaboathomecic|www.crowdfunder.co.uk/renttoownaboathomecic}