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The accompanying
Sound Track  is
'Brown Sugar' by
The Rolling Stones.

Steve McAvoy who was a marine engineer with Booker Line has kindly sent me a copy of the Booker Viking Visitors Guest book which resided behind the bar in the officers smoke room. Please click on the ADOBE download icon to view the book (download may take a few moments)


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MV Booker Viking

 

Visitors

Comments
Subject : Booker Crusade
Name:  Tony Poerstamper
E-Mail: Withheld
Date: 26/12/2011
Time: 0644

My name is Tony Poerstamper. I sailed on the Booker Crusade, 1980-1981 as Third Officer. It was such a surprise to see the photos of the crew again. As a result of the Booker  Crusade voyage, I emigrated to Bermuda in Nov 1981, returning to the UK in 2002.
Subject : Booker Venture / GHPB
Name:  Clive Russell
E-Mail: Withheld
Date: 31/10/2011
Time: 0610

My first trip as 2R/O under Don Mcrae was out of Birkenhead. I remember Don sailed without any whites as his laundry went missing. He managed to pick up a couple of khakis from the local Army Surplus before sailing. Thanks Don for the pictures of the radio room. They bring back great memories, especially those of trying to keep the receiver tuned in with the ever changing power from the shaft generator. In rough weather the prop raced and slowed with the swell and the 'mains' voltage went up and down in response. This was Don's last trip on the Venture as he was assigned to the new Booker Viking.


Fond memories of warm canned Tennents Lager and Bookers Rum, mostly quaffed in the Leccy's quarters. The small AC unit


seemed to keep the Chief Engineer's accommodation cool but didn't extend to the aft cabins which were usually hotter than the outside.

After 6 months on the Venture IMR assigned me to the old QE/GBSS and from there I moved over to a direct employ with Cunard Brocklebank and spent time on the Franconia/GTKX and the (then new) QE2/GBTT before returning to land.
Subject : Booker Venture
Name: Robert (Yorkie) Cook
E-Mail: Withheld
Date: 22/07/2011
Time: 1800 		Booker Venture was my 2nd trip to sea and joined as a deck boy, 26/7/76. (Was it really 35 years ago?) We sailed from Middlesborough to Moengo, Dutch Guinea. I was told at the time the BV was the largest ship to dock. Loaded Bauxite for Thorold, which was about 8 miles from Niagara Falls. Asked the CO for my seamans ID book to go ashore and told I did not need it. Whilst at Niagara with a young catering lad (Sammy Mc?) we decided to walk on the road that leads to New York State, took several photos posing with the Horse Show falls in the background. Walked back to the Canadian side and they would not let us back in the country, despite arguing that we had just taken some photo's and our ship was docked at Thorold the authotities did not want to know and we were both put in the cells for the night. No! way was anyone coming up from the ship with our ID as they were all entertaining persons who had chartered the ship. Ships agent appeared the following morning with our ID. After that up the lakes to Duluth and loaded grain for Lisbon & Leixios. Back accross the pond and loaded grain in Toledo which we took to Malta. Remember being tied up stern to and quite a few of the crew ending up in the drink whilst trying to get in those small narrow boats. Paid off 15/11/1976 in Malta and that was the first time I had ever flown. The Niagara incident I remember as if it was yesterday but sadly cannot remember any of the crew other than Sammy. Remember the chippy he paid off in Montreal as we went up the lakes, scotch guy who had a massive bump on his head the size of an egg, this was a permmanent thing and not the reason he paid off. Gave him a postcard to post in the UK when he paid off, he must have left it in is case because it turned up nearly 5 years later. Skipper was W! Hill. Anyone on that trip that remembers me or any of the crew that may jog my momory a bit more. Certainly were great days and thanks for all the posting that have brought back many happy memories that only forums like this can.
Subject : Booker Memories
Name: Randall Berry Lillya
E-Mail: Withheld
Date: 10/05/2011
Time: 1310

Hi Ken, I'm sitting with your sister in her office in Liverpool having just looked through your fantastic website. It brought back many memories and it was nice to see some old, familiar faces.

I'm sure, along with myself, lots of other Booker Line people will appreciate the time you've spent researching for this very interesting, quality site.

Pa
Subject : Booker Venture
Name: Denise Lillya (nee Berry)
E-Mail: Withheld
Date: 10/05/2011
Time: 1305 		Fantastic job Ken, brought back happy memories of one of my best ever holidays, with you, Dad and Mum aboard the Venture, stopping at Barbados, (former British) Guyana and St Kitts. Lovely to see a couple of photo's of the very handsome and debonair Ray (Bracewell) and the less than debonair Kenny Henderson. I remember Ray gave me my first Oranjeboom and Paul (Southworth) my first lesson in logarithms (another handsome chap). What larks eh Ken!
Love, Denise x
Subject : Graham Sylvester
Name: aka Foxy
E-Mail: Withheld
Date: 15/03/2011
Time: 1305

I joined Bookers in the mid 1970's, sailing first on the Booker Venture which was chartered out at the time, then sailing on the Vanguard, Viking and Valiant on the regular run to the West Indies.

I have some wonderful memories of places and people. Looking through the photo gallery and seeing so may familiar faces again. People like Billy Evans, Jib Ablett, Jimmy Leishman and many, many more.

A few years ago I bumbed into Rob Browning in a pub in Dorset, over a few pints we got quite a bit of sea time in.

I've sent a few photographs for the gallery,

Best regards,

Graham Sylvester AKA Foxxy

 
Subject : Booker Venture
Name: Chris Balnaves
E-Mail: Withheld
Date: 05/01/2011
Time: 1649 		I am a bit of an outsider really but coming across this website has stirred some memories. I was a waterclerk for Kentships/Tate & Lyle up until 1976 and consequently got to know the Booker Venture well on her calls at Dagenham and Silvertown. I remember that Booker Line treated their crews far better than the other Owners did. I remember Captain Carter and the Engineer Supt. clearly and also the chap from the office in Liverpool who looked like Derek Guyler but had a proper Scouse accent. I remember turning up at Dagenham on a snowy day to pay the ship off and nearly falling from the gangway with eleven grand in my case....Wish I could turn the clock back as well.
Subject : Booker Boats
Name: John Robinson
E-Mail: Withheld
Date: 28/12/2010
Time: 1717 		i remember being on the second to last boat home,and most of the office wonting to go on strike, in london.
then working by in liverpool and moveing the ship.
had to walk back to my car some two miles.
this was my last trip those where the days
Subject : Arakaka
Name: Charlie Hannah
E-Mail: Withheld
Date: 05/11/2010
Time: 1820 		Hi, just stumbled on to this sight by chance great sight,I was on the Arakaka from17-6-55 to 6-8-55 as S,O,S,good happy job,and a good crowd.A top company to work for,had many good times and good memories of her...
Subject: Booker Venture
Name: Dick Hurd
E-Mail: Withheld
Date: 27/08/2010
Time: 1758 		My name is Dick Hurd and i was a Jnr Engineering Officer on Venture in 1962. I am looking to see if there are any members of the UMPTY club and all members of the ships company at that time. Namely 2nd Ken 3rd Off Charlie 4th Engin Ole Klinto and 4th George
Subject: Booker Line
Name: Mark Grace
E-Mail: Withheld
Date: 28/05/2010
Time: 0929 		I have just discovered this site, very impressive, I remember joining the Vanguard in Glasgow in 75 as a fresh faced cadet. Sailed with them for another 4 years, the names come flooding back, although it\'s slow. I remember Billy \'Whizz\',  Don McLellan, Paul Southworth, Graham Evans, Gary Slack (cadet) Tommy Weston, Hugh Macallister, Ray? Crellin, Robert McCechnie, Martin Corner, also some of the Guyanese crew..\'Shorty\' (Bosun) Chalmers, \'Fatback\' Simeon, Robby, also Fred a 2nd engineer?? keep up the good work, I will try and source some photos.
Subject: Booker Valiant
Name: Ian Dawson
E-Mail: Withheld
Date: 02/03/2010
Time: 0756

Message: great site, I did two trips on the booker valiant as deck boy then the dizzy heights of jos ! I remember paul spencer and a steward called mick shepard the bosun was[ the amazing andy frame] it was unreal,I sailed with fishers, harrisons ropners to name afew but they didnt come close!
Subject: Booker Vanguard
Name: Des Lyttle
E-Mail: Withheld
Date: 230210
Time: 1920

Just a quick note to say I was saddened to just learn from your site of the passing of Alan Moss. I was Junior R/O under him in the Autumn of 1971. He was a real character and we had lots of fun together.
Subject: Booker Boats Life in BG
Name: Robert Knowles
E-Mail: Withheld
Date: 200210
Time: 1425

My mom is  Guyanese. Her mother was a Guyanese. All her 8 siblings, The Strangs of Camp St are Guyanese or \"mudheads\". I remember her telling me about her travels on the Booker Boats to England. Her father, Robert Strang was part of The Triumph Sugar Company, which became part of Bookers!

 All the offspring and grandchildren are scattered throughout the world, I live in the US, my mom still lives in Barbados.Many are in the UK and some still in the islands
Subject: Great Site
Name: Ted Butler
E-Mail: Withheld
Date: 11/02/2010
Time: 1300		 I am a new boy to the site. Not a shipmate I regret but a passenger on both Arakaka and Amakura during 1953. I remeber Captain Armitage. I worked on Albion Estate for many years which was next to Port Mourant in Berbice County. In 1960, or thereabouts, they were combined to make the largest Estate in the country. My last job there was as Personnel Manager . I then moved on to the Demerara company, perhaps better known as a part of Sandbach Parker, from 1965-68. I remeber the gerneral strike of 1963 very well and was called up for Military service with the Briish Guiana Volunteer force for the duration. I was resident in Lamaha Street in Georgetown for my last three years and remember meeting many crew members who were on a run ashore. Perhaps I should not mention some of the places we used to meet up but \"Jeans Bar\" springs to mind! Wonderful days. A great website.
Subject: Jim Harris
Name: I never made it
E-Mail: Withheld
Date: 31012010
Time: 2130

I  tried  many  times  to  join  \'Bookers\'  as  a  5th,  4th  or 3rd  Engineer,  but  was  always  rejected. The  runs  and  length  of  trips  appealed  to  me  a  great deal  as  I\'d  sailed  with  \'Bank  Line\'!

I  did  manage  to  join  \'Booth  Line\',  and  would  love  to hear  any  of  your  yarns  and  stories  about  the  ports and  \'girlie  bars\'  you  all  enjoyed!!

Kind  regards,

Jim  Harris.  31st  January  2010.  Melbourne  Australia.
Subject: Update
Name: Jon Gregory
E-Mail: Withheld
Date: 28/01/2010
Time: 0800

The rapid passage of time never fails to scare the bejeezus out of me, as I see it\'s nearly 4 years since I wrote my first entry. I would really like to hear from anyone with whom I sailed and who remembers me? Particularly Glen Davies 2/O, John Tebay 3/O, Kev Brady Nav Gadget, Al Singleton Nav Gadget, Ritchie Milnes 5/E, John Badger 4/E, Ian Niblock 2/O. I\'d really like to get up to Liverpool and have a beer or two if anyone is interested. Does anyone remember the day the axe fell on Bookers in June 1982. We were at anchor in the Thames Estuary on the Challenge I think, and tied one on outside on deck at the sad news that we were all to be scattered to the four winds. REALLY enjoyed my brief few years at sea with Bookers, and it was a genuine privelege to meet such a diverse, self reliant, interesting and on the whole good bunch of people. I went on to sail with Blue Star and Maggie Booths, but neither had the feel of Bookers.
Cheers boys!!!!
Subject: Booker Venture
Name: Pat McCarten
E-Mail: Withheld
Date: 27/01/2010
Time: 0900		 My dad,pat\"mac\"mccarten sailed on the booker venture in the early sixties.I remember going down and waiting at,I think, the sandon lock gates to meet him and getting told off for jumping aboard while the yellow flag was still hoisted.
Subject: Crusade & Vulcan
Name: Peter Foale
E-Mail: Withheld
Date: 10/01/10
Time: 2100		 I was the electrician on both ships in the early 1980s and have a lot of fond memories of the voyages and, without exception, of the great people to have spent a part of my life with. It would be very special to have the opportunity to meet the guys (and maybe Rose and Cheryl Weston) at a reunion if you have another one. I have lived in Aberystwyth since 1982 and now work for the local Council in Building services still getting a lot of hassle with electrical problems
Subject: Booker Crusade
Name: Lillian Jones
E-Mail: Withheld
Date: 04/01/2010
Time: 2100		 Ken
I've just found the Booker site after recounting the tale of the near disaster in 1981 to my work colleagues.   I had joined my husband, Peter Foale, the electrical officer in Newfoundland and we soon hit the hurricane which left us having a 7 week break in Bermuda.  I appear in 2 of Nigels Smirk's photo's as the electricians wife.  My husband and I have since split up after 22 years of marriage but we still live close to each other and are in contact.  I've sent the link to the site to him as he appears in a number of Nigel's photo's.
I have some more from 1981 if you'd like to add them to the site.  Please let me know.
Thanks for the lovely trip down memory lane.  I would have loved to have met up with Tommy and Rose Weston at the reunion (and Cheryl if she'd been there!  She joined us on that epic adventure).  Let us know if there are any more reunions plannned!
Lilian Jones (previously Foale)
Subject: Peter Campbell
Name: Stuart Campbell
E-Mail: Withheld
Date: 07/12/2009
Time: 1340

Message:

hi came across your site whilst looking  for some images of the ship my dad sailed on ,i think it was the vanguard  back in the 60s 70s remember meeting Neil hough smith ,he had a nice E  type  jag back in the day.sure my dad was chief steward  purser.dont no alot more   .perhaps theres still a few old boys about that new my dad

kind regards

stuart
Subject: ARAKAKA
Name: Terri Valiant
E-Mail: Withheld
Date: 22/10/2009
Time: 1815

Message:

My father sailed on the ARAKAKA his name was Joseph Glanville, I am trying to find some information on a newspaper article that was written about him being the double of William Bendix. It happened whilst William Bendix was filming at the docks (USA) and the only date I have is 18th May, but not the year. The article states he had two children so that would be between 1946 and 1950.  Just wondered if anyone could help
Subject: Bookers
Name: Graham Evans
E-Mail: Withheld
Date: 29/07/09
Time: 1500		 Hi my name is Graham Evans,I was 3rd Mate with Bookers for 6/7 years and they were exceptionally happy times. I don't why but I never thought to look for a Bookers site until yesterday and i was delighted to look through the photographs and boy did they bring back some memories.
I just want to say if you are thinking of another reunion then please could you contact me (Graham has supplied full contact details)
If you have contact details for other Booker sailing staff it would be great re-establish contact.
Cheers now and well done on such a great site.
Graham Evans 
Subject: Happy Days
Name: Terry Williams
E-Mail: Withheld
Date: 27/07/09
Time: 1330		 Message: would love to hear from any of the many people I sailed with over the years.I think I may well have started the bar on the Viking in the early 70s \\\"The Turning Gear Inn\\\" named by Pete Bettany if my memory serves me correctly.My late wifes name is one of the first to appear in the visitors book when she attended a party in Georgetown.I could go on forever recalling stories of the characters of Booker Line.I remember sailing on the Venture with Ran Berry and family.We where in bad weather when the chair Mrs Berry was sitting in took off and ended up at the table I shared with 2nd Mate and 3rd Eng.Peter Macmanus and Jim(the shrug)Stewart.All the other chairs had the chains on!
I am still working(needs Must)and am, at the age of almost 67, the oldests ETO with P&O ferries.
Subject: Booker Vanguard/Alan Moss
Name: Steve Hudson
E-Mail: Withheld
Date: 07/07/2009
Time: 0900		 I joined my first ship the Vanguard during the summer of 1972 making my way nervously to Liverpool from the Midlands. There I met my first Boss Alan Moss. He quickly put me at ease and under his patient guidance I found my sea legs \\\"Tennants Girls\\\" & \\\"Long Life\\\".  I remember his friend in George Town Roy Gumby who organised a day out for those of us not on watch, with a charter pilot, to visit the Kaitur Falls what a day that was! Unforgettable, any one out there who joined Alan & I that day?  I considered myself fortunate to have made two trips with the Vanguard and Alan and finding this site has sparked many happy memories.
Finally I was saddened to read here of his passing I am sure he is missed I learnt much & laughed a lot with him during my introduction to life at sea.
Subject: Mark Watson
Name: Booker Challenge 1979
E-Mail: Withheld
Date: 06/07/2009
Time: 1616		 Message: I was a Deck Boy in 79 and was one of the crew who flew from Liverpool to Aalborg in Denmark to collect the Sol Michael and bring her back to Glasgow. I then rejoined ,again as a deck boy, on the newly painted Booker Challenge and did a trip of the Carribean ending up in Georgetown to load sugar for Tate & Lyle. Unfortunately due to the passage of time I dont remember any names of my fellow crew mates, but I was from the Isle of Man and everyone called me ( wait for it ) Manxie.
Subject: ARAKAKA
Name: Dave Tranter
E-Mail: Withheld
Date: 05/07/2009
Time: 1622		  
Hve found you site very interesting - especially the information about the WW2 losses.
 
Attached is a general arrangement drawing of the 'Arakaka' which I though you might find interesting.  It was copied from a shipping journal dated about the time she was built.
 
I was at sea for forty byears, retiring in 2001, and remember seeing Booker line ships.
 
 
Subject: Arakaka/Booker Vanguard
Name: John O'leary
E-Mail: Withheld
Date: 06/06/2009
Time: 1030		 I was 2nd cook baker on the arakaka and  chief cook on the booker vanguard on its maiden voyage,i was in georgetown for the 3 month strike, sean smith and jimmy lee  and tommy rowan were all shipmates,anyone on above give me e mail
Subject: Booker Venture
Name: Geoff Burton
E-Mail: Withheld
Date: 28/05/2009
Time: 0900		 Hello. Just stumbled across this site while trawling the net. I was an ass/steward on the Booker Venture from Feb1962 to july1962 and they were the best three trips I ever had. Nobody knew me by my real name, I was blessed with a stammer and one of the crew nicknamed me \\\\\\\'luwey the lip\\\\\\\'. I sailed under Cpt J Carter and Cpt t Jones. I will keep in touch with the site now that I have found it.
Subject: Karnak
Name: Chris Blundell
E-Mail: Withheld
Date: 24/05/2009
Time: 0800		  I found your site by accident while trying to find a picture of one of my old ships, the S.S. Arakaka.
I joined the Karnak (Moss Hutchinson Line) in Aug.1956 as a Catering Boy, and did six trips in her until Sept.1957 then I left as Ast.Std. I think it was in April.1957 we were charted by Booker Line and did a trip  to Georgetown.B.G
Then in 1960, I joined the Arakaka and did another, and sadly, final trip to Georgetown. Great memories, thanks for the site. Though I still can\\\'t get a picture of the Arakaka
Subject: Guyanese Pilots
Name: Mark Roman
E-Mail: Withheld
Date: 20/04/2009
Time: 0800		 Please see The Forum Page for Marks comments.
Subject: Don Macrae Booker Viking
Name: Dave Lovatt
E-Mail: Withheld
Date: 01/04/2009
Time: 15:00:00		 I had the privilege of sailing on the Booker Viking as Junior R/O for two wonderful voyages. I must congratulate the people who constructed this website - it brought back many happy memories. Pictures of Eric Ward, Ted Jones and Don reminded me of those great ports we visited in the Caribbean/South America.
Best wishes to Don - I assume he still resides in \\\' Islay \\\', I must try and visit sometime.
Cheers for now.
---------------------------------------------------------------------
Visitor Ip: 62.120.129.54
Subject: Great Site
Name: Norman Ahmid
E-Mail: Withheld
Date: 27/03/09
Time: 14:00:00		 Message: Ken I will go through my photos and send them in to you.

I have just been informed by Eric and Joan Ward today of the web site and I must say having gone through the gallery and looking at the photos they take me back to the days I first sailed on the Vanguard in November 1966 as a steward and 2nd Stwd and then brought out the Viking from Fredrickstad in June 67 - left the company in 1968 and rejoined as Purser in 1975 to finishing in September 1982 - A very sad time:
What an excellent site-I have just been told that there is to be a re-union on the 6th May and as much as I would have loved to be present we will be at our villa in Florida - please pass on my regards to all that remember me and I wish you all a very pleasant day - hopefully another will be arranged which we will be able to attend:
I am still in touch with Captain Pat Hill, Jimmy Leishman and of course Eric and Joan - I also receive a Christmas card from Honest Harry Harvey (Donkey Man) Viking

My best wishes to you all on the day;

Kind Regards
Norman Ahmid
---------------------------------------------------------------------
Visitor Ip: 86.155.129.91
Subject: Bookers & Georgetown
Name: Peter O'Donnell
E-Mail: Withheld
Date: 18/06/2008
Time: 23:55:12		 What a great site, have only just found it, like all your readers I have great memories of Bookers & Georgetown, I sailed on the Arakaka & the Amakura during the late fifties, names that spring to mind, Captains Carter & Armitage chief stewards Smith& Hill & wise old I think Jim Hill the A/B
Subject: Memories
Name: Geoff Cowap
E-Mail: geoffcowap@btinternet.com
Date: 15/06/2008
Time: 21:00:59		 I've just spent the last hour reading through the latest comments. I note the message from Jack Rowlands.

Jack would love to hear more from you. Where are you now. You didn't publish your email contact address although you mentioned that you use your daughter's address. That must be the one who sailed with us on the Vanguard when she was 11 years old. Those days in Bookers were amazing. Best years of my life.

I also see mention of Mossy. That must refer to my friend Alan Moss. He was my best man when I married in 1967. We stayed friends for the rest of his life and met regularly in Liverpool until his untimely death. Still exchange Christmas cards with his wife Ann. The Forum is a real bonus for keeping in touch. would love to hear from others particularly those who sailed with Bookers during the 1960s.

Please note my new email address geoffcowap@btinternet.com which can be freely published

Geoff Cowap
Subject: Booker Line
Name: Rob Lavender
E-Mail: roblavender@hotmail.com
Date: 06/06/2008
Time: 03:01:43		 Hi Ken, You are to be congratulated on this great web site which seems to be growing at a considerable rate. Steve MacAvoy touched base some time ago and it was great to hear from him, now reading the visitors book I have a few others to contact. I see a few more pictures of me have popped up "what memories it brings back" keep up the good work!

Cheers to all

Rob "Bob Lavender"
Subject: Traveling to Guyana circa   1849
Name: R B Smith
E-Mail: withheld
Date: 04/06/2008
Time: 12:20:18		 Wonderful to find site through reference at Liverpool Museum. My GGGrandfather was in Guyana 1849-1861 as a policeman with his family and it is a great pity that records have been destroyed. His name was Walter Burke/Bourke and lived in Liverpool and and I assume he travelled there on the Booker Line. Any help, suggestions for research appreciated.

Excellent site. Richard B Smith

Subject: Arakaka in WW2
Name: Lesley Millard nee Portass
E-Mail: withheld
Date: 26/05/2008
Time: 20:34:35		 I am the niece of Squadron Leader Sidney Leslie Portass who was lost on the Arakaka when it was torpedoed in WW 2. Thank you for the site.
Subject: SS Arakaka/MV Anabisi
Name: Brian Kelly
E-Mail: withheld
Date: 24/05/2008
Time: 20:38:58		 Just found your site I sailed on these 2 ships as a/b Arakaka about 1963 the strike was on in Georgetown they set fire to the quay so the skipper took us out in the stream to anchor in our haste to leave we had no time to take the gangway aboard it went up in flames I remember the navy vessel steaming up and down out side the harbour I don't recall how long we were held up MV Anabisi joined Liverpool 11/10/65 to 3/1 65 we buried our cook at Pajacres northern Spain he fell off the quay and hit his head on the stone steps great fella he was from turkey but lived in Liverpool a bad trip from La Rochelle France to Liverpool made us miss xmas so packed in the sea went into constructional engineering still traveled home and away retired now cant remember names but the skipper on Anabisi lived aboard with his wife great site brings back memories only the good ones ha ha
Subject: 08.16N 56.34W
Name: Steve McAvoy
E-Mail: withheld
Date: 20/05/2008
Time: 03:04:58		 Hi Jib,

Last time we met was in 1982 up in Aberdeen. You were on a 'Bugge' Supply boat, and I was on the 'Leam Texas', also a supply boat. It was only then that you had informed me of the demise of Bookers.

Well as you can see by the position from the GPS, I am presently about 100 miles abeam of Georgetown Guyana, in transit from Rio de Janeiro to Trinidad,

Good to see you made Capt.

Brgds

Steve McAvoy
Subject: Bookers
Name: D M Ablett "Jib"
E-Mail: Withheld
Date: 07/05/2007
Time: 14:04:33		 Thank you so much for a wonderful site! What memories! I joined the Booker Venture in dry dock in Malta in 1976 having served my time with Ocean Fleets. I remember wine at 10p a bottle & Billy Whizz saying" Don't bruise the grape" as it was poured! I sailed on the Venture, Viking, Vanguard & Tropic/Valiant as 3rd and then 2nd Mate.

So many names, so many memories!

I'm a pilot now berthing tankers at an oil terminal in Libya.

If you do have a reunion please let me know love to see some old faces!.

I was in St Kitts last year on holiday You wouldn't recognise Frigate Bay!! still much remains unchanged.

My regards to all your readers!

Capt. David M. (JIB) Ablett
Subject: Arakaka 3 1956
Name: Edwin Keith Baxter
E-Mail: Withheld
Date: 22/04/2008
Time: 11:12:34		 Oh ! what a wonderful web-site, and what memories you have brought back to me, - especially the photograph of "Arakaka 3". Following six weeks training at "Vindicatrix", my first voyage was on "Arakaka 3" and had my 16th birthday in mid-Atlantic, Sept.1956. Unfortunately on return to "Harrington Dock" there was a "Dock Strike" and that was the end of my "Merchant Navy" days, but Oh! what wonderful recollections you have given me. Keep up the good work with the Web-Site.
Subject: SS Amakura 2
Name: Steve Martin
E-Mail: Withheld
Date: 21/04/2008
Time: 21:23:58		 I am interested in the Booker line vessel SS Amakura that was lost off the coast of Jamaica in 1942 due to a U boat attack. I am a great nephew of third engineer William Wilson Howarth who was one of thirteen souls killed by the enemy action.

 
Subject: Booker Avenue School
Name: Jeffrey Thomas Allenby
E-Mail: Withheld
Date: 05/04/2008
Time: 08:54:32		 I sailed with Booker Line as 4th Engineer in the early eighties and found your site very interesting. I would like to know if you or any body else knows of any other ex sea staff that went to Booker avenue school as well as sailed with booker line as I myself did

I also attended Booker Avenue primary and junior schools ~ Ken
Subject: SS Arakaka
Name: Dorothy Elizabeth Miles (nee whale)
E-Mail: Withheld
Date: 02/03/2008
Time: 20:08:00
I am very interested in your web site as my brother  Ronald Gordon Whale  was  a wireless operator  on the Arakaka that  was lost in 1941. I am sure that 2 of  the pictures that you have posted that were provided  by Mrs Leslie Gallivan have my  brother in them.
In the  first one, he is playing the Piano Accordion and  then he is in picture  number 3 standing on the left beside Cpl. Richard Wrighton.
My  father, Gordon Scott Whale, was the owner & principle of The Wireless College in Colwyn Bay North Wales & The Wireless College, Calmore , Southampton where Marine Radio Officers were trained.
Subject: Arakaka
Name: Bill Lloyd
E-Mail: Withheld
Date: 20/03/2008
Time: 21:49:03		 I did two trips in her in 1961 one as galley boy one as pantry boy. Had some great nights out with the deck crowd. Anyone remember the football matches i think it was against the local fire brigade.
Subject: Don Macrae
              Booker Venture
Name: Joe Duffy
E-Mail: Withheld
Date: 20/03/2008
Time: 12:21:18

Just visited your web site for the 1st time. Enjoyed it very much. I was wondering if you could pass on my regards to Don Macrae ex R/O MV Booker Venture. I sailed R/O with Sugar Line on the "Sugar Producer" from July'63 until August '64. I used to chat with Don on a regular H/F schedule. I remember he came from one of the Scottish Islands off the West Coast but can't remember which one. I retired 2 years ago from NTL Cable, now Virgin Media.

Keep up the good work. Take care,

Joe,
Subject: Booker Website
Name: Nigel Smirk
E-Mail: Withheld
Date: 02/02/08
Time: 17:07:10		 Just seen the entry from Graham Wood, I remember receiving the telegram alongside Mossy on the Vanguard informing Graham that his Liverpool pilots job had come up, I recall the skipper handing it to him on the Bridge on the Vanguard as we were crossing the Atlantic on a beautiful day but cant remember if it was outward or homeward bound. Although I was Sparks on several ships arriving at Liverpool Graham was never one of the pilots. I also noted that Tommy Weston is still alive and kicking...remember our eventful voyage on the Crusade?
Subject: Booker Website
Name: Jack Rowlands (Marine       Superintendent Liverpool)
E-Mail: Withheld
Date: 31/01/08
Time: 10:54:22		 Congratulations Ken for an excellent site. Brought back lots of memories, particularly the Bermuda incident, where I spent eight very hard weeks getting the ship seaworthy again. Good to hear of Arthur Brannon and Jim Leishman. Must admit lost touch with most but still visit Shaun Smiths widow, Vera.

The email is my daughters but please feel free to contact me. Thanks, Jack
Subject: Great Site
Name: Graham Wood
E-Mail: gjwood@freenet.co.uk
Date: 30/01/08
Time: 00:25:34		 Oh serendipity - a lucky chance finding this site. I did two spells with Bookers - 1972 as 3rd Mate in "Venture" then 75-77 in "Viking"," Vanguard" and "Vulcan" before becoming a Liverpool Pilot. Happy, happy days. Lots of names to conjure with in the Guest Book and a host of memories recalled to mind. Sweep (sure you had a real name), Bob Lavender and anybody else who cares to, please get in touch. I am now pilot/asst harbour master at Barrow-in-Furness. Please feel free to publish my email address: gjwood@freenet.co.uk
Subject: ARAKAKA 1963
Name: Jim Parker
E-Mail: Withheld
Date: 29/01/2008
Time: 11:03:16
Great to find your site , it has brought back lots of good memories from my time spent at sea. The Arakaka was particularly memorable due to the extended stay we had in Georgetown- three months strikebound as the country came to a standstill in 1963.

It would be great to hear from any of the crew who shared those experiences
 
Subject: Bookers in the 1960's
Name: Geoff Cowap
E-Mail: geoff@cowapmarine.co.uk
Date: 18/12/2007
Time: 21:37:54
I joined the Arakaka in 1962 as 2nd mate with a brand new Mates ticket. I sailed in her until she was sold in 1963. Those were the best years of my life at sea. The Arakaka was a fine ship. She carried draft English beer which introduced us to dozens of friends in Georgetown as every trip as we docked, all the ex-pats were waiting on the quay for a pint of English beer. The Master was Stan Armitage. On the last voyage, Stan was on leave and Nick Carter relieved him as Master. We arrived in Georgetown just as a general strike began.

The whole country ground to a standstill with riots every day. The Navy sent in a frigate to protect the ex-pats and evacuate them if it became necessary. We were in Georgetown for three months during that strike. The Navy supplied us with fuel and food. They also held some amazing parties to which we were all invited.

On arrival back in UK I was sent to Burnt Island to standby the building of Booker Vanguard. I sailed on her as second mate, then Chief Officer and one coastal trip to Glasgow as Master. My final trip with Bookers was a delivery job of a small coaster from Rotterdam via Liverpool to Georgetown as Master.

I look back on my days with Bookers as the best time of my life.

Looking through your photo galleries, I remember Don Mcrae, Bob Williams and Nick Carter. Also Shaun Smith and Ken Henderson. I would love to hear from anyone who sailed with Bookers in the 60s

Thanks for a wonderful web site
 
Subject: Steve Asplet
Name: Steve Asplet
E-Mail:  steveasplet@hotmail.com
Date: 29/11/2007
Time: 17:01:00		 Steve has asked me to update his profile with his email address. You can contact Steve at steveasplet@hotmail.com
Subject: Booker Line
Name: Jim Leishman
E-Mail: Withheld
Date: 19/11/2007
Time: 17:46:20		 Received phone call from Sweep. Will look out some photos and send them on. This was a surprise to hear about the site.
Subject: Master Hughie McAlsister
Name: Peter Martin
E-Mail: Withheld
Date: 19/11/2007
Time: 10:30:21		 I'm in touch with Hughie and recently chatted with him over a beer or two about the golden days of Booker.
Subject: Deck Cadet 1978-1981
Name: Mark Rawson
E-Mail: Withheld
Date: 18/11/2007
Time: 22:37:19		 Great site, I was Booker Line Deck Cadet form 78 until the end, when I was passed over to T&J Harrison to finish my Sea time.

I enjoyed looking at the pictures posted by Steve McAvoy. I was on the Vanguard that trip.

Great Times, and all the names came back so quickly.

Booker Vanguard 4 trips Nov 78 - Oct 79, and then the first trip on the Crusade Oct 79 - Jan 80.

Booker Challenge Dec 80 - Feb 81 (the strike when we were in Barbados for 7 weeks)

Challenge again later that year, then Crusade again Jul 81 to Dec 81. Then off to Riversdale for 2nd Mates and the end of Bookers came soon after.

Subject: Joan & Eric Ward
Name: Steve McAvoy
E-Mail: Withheld
Date: 31/10/2007
Time: 21:37:55		 This is in reply to Joan Wards email of the 27th June 07.

Just sent ken some photos courtesy of Bob Lavander in New Zealand. Please check out the photo gallery soon as there are 3 photos of Eric included. I sailed with Eric on at least one occasion, and probably stood by in Liverpool on other occasions.

Enjoy the photos
Subject: Seamen from Guyana
Name: Arthur Miller
E-Mail: Withheld
Date: 31/10/2007
Time: 17:01:01		 My Father was a merchant seaman before the second world war, during the war and after the war. Is there records for these seamen who come from Guyana, my father was a very young man come lad he work his way to second cook and baker, and then to chiefcook. His name was Mr Joseph James Millermy enquiry is for my research to my roots.

If you have any ideas where Arthur can search then please get in touch - Thanks

 
Subject: SS ARAKAKA
Name: Lesli Gallivan
E-Mail: Withheld
Date: 22/10/2007
Time: 14:40:00		 Dear Ken,

I felt I had to write and tell you what an amazing website you have created - it has helped me to find out exactly what happened to my mother's fiancé.

I have created a page for Lesli under 'The War Years' section to remember this brave man who perished on the SS ARAKAKA during WW2. Click

HERE to read the story and view the photographs
Subject: Booker Line
Name: Steve McAvoy
E-Mail: stevejmac@hotmail.com
Date: 09/10/2007
Time: 14:56:00
Hi Ken,
 
Been pretty busy tracking down ex Booker people since I first saw your website, it must have spurred me on.
 
Managed to track Bob Lavender down in New Zealand, after a long time of searching, (it was so easy in the end !!!, ) not only that, but at the very instant I got a read receipt of my email to him, I decided to call him,  so to coin a ' scouse ' phrase he was pretty much ' gob smacked ' 
Bob  emailed me a bunch of photographs, so I will see what I can do with them and forward them to you. I must also have a bunch in the loft somewhere, see what I can dig up.

 

I also reached Ian Jones, Larry Grace, Tommy Weston, Jerry Lucas and Don McRae, so guess sooner or later we will arrange some kind of reunion in Liverpool.
I would be interested to learn of Billy (Whiz) Evans contact details....it was a pity not too many email addresses were revealed?
 
You didn't mention your father and I was a little afraid to enquire as it has been so many years, but I was pleased to learn from Don McRae that he is very well, so I would be interested to learn if he remembers me? Perhaps he would remember by the name Sweep....please give him my regards.
 
Well I am presently in Rio de Janeiro having arrived alongside this morning, so pretty busy turning the ship around in 2 days.
 

I fly home tomorrow for some R&R so hopefully we will be in touch.

 
Brgds
 
Steve
Subject: Booker Line
Name: Steve McAvoy
E-Mail: stevejmac@hotmail.com
Date: 04/10/2007
Time: 00:29:00
Hi Ken,
 
I am presently offshore Brazil, as Chief Engineer. I stumbled across your website, totally by chance, actually looking at a Ben Line website, whom I started with in 1971.
For some unknown reason I decided to punch into Google, Booker Vulcan, I had tried the same thing over the last few years only to reveal no leads, correction, last year it took me to the North Wales BBC website to an article on the Royal Charter.

 

Guess what, there was Bob Lavenders name, and I've been searching for him ever since, even tried speculatively trying a few telephone numbers in New Zealand trying to trace him....still looking.
 
I sailed with your father on the Booker Venture in 1975, and as I remember, correct me if I am wrong he had a passion for pure math's, I mean, I recall him reading real heavy serious books on the subject....and of course bronzing on the monkey island. The years have faded, but I think it was a trip to Savannah La Mar and Salt River in Jamaica and back to Silvertown in London....Sugar prices were booming then in 1975
 
Even as a  4th Engineer, I recall  very, very clearly almost as it were yesterday, he informed me, Laddie I will you let you maneuver this engine, only when you can tell me what happens when you pull that lever....and I had to explain all the 'minute' details of exactly what went on, before he would let me back on the sticks.

 

I read the books, it took me a while, but after that there was no looking back. He reprimanded me a few times, but that's what Chief Engineers do....no complaints, looking back.
 

I went on with Bookers until 1980 when I left for personal reasons, (and probably like so many, wish I could turn the clock back to those days) but there are so many very fond memories, a it was a very, very special time and a very special group of people to meet and sail with.

I have absolutely  no doubt that your site will generate a lot a interest, its just a matter of 'word of mouth' that it exists, I found it totally by accident, I hope many more people stumble across it, I will certainly bookmark it in my favorites.
Subject: Great Site
Name: Terry White
E-Mail: Withheld
Date: 15/10/2007
Time: 12:35:08		 Hi there

What a great site, it certainly brought back a few memories looking at your site. I started my apprenticeship with Blue Flue Ocean Fleets and went to sea with them for 2 years. I sailed with Bookers between 1977 and 1979 and I reached the dizzy heights of 4th engineer. I sailed mainly on the Vanguard with 4 trips and Vulcan 1 trip. I had a great time, got married and decided enough was enough. Its great looking at the pictures of the DST, Trinidad and the St Kitts. I remember a few of the names mentioned Willy Gordon, I was always on time to take over from the 12-4 from him, Larry Grace, Jib Ablett I recall came into the saloon in a fully equipped scuba suit, the old man was not happy. Jimmy Leishman was the chief and the 2 nd was a guy called Steve (sweep) Mc ?????. Steve Asplet sailed with me on the Vanguard for one trip and I relieved him on the Vulcan on St Kitts one Christmas. he was in hospital with his appendix. I was even more astounded to see a few pictures of me in gallery 5. I am now in my 50th year both me and my Mrs were laughing at them. So I would like to say thanks to you and to Steve Asplet for sending them in. There are a few of me in Gallery 5 Top row on right is me with Peter Foal (electrician)

Row three on right emerging from the water is me and in row four on left next to the palm tree is me. Made up the pics are there, but can you just let people know its Terry White 4th Engineer Booker Vanguard.

 

It would be great to keep in touch and I will see if I can dig out a few more pics for you. Although I don't have any digital snaps.

All the best and keep up the good work.

Regards

Terry

Subject: Booker Viking
Name: Stan Rushton
E-Mail: Withheld
Date: 20/10/07
Time: 18:18:47		 A great website I was R/O for my first two trips at sea ..Just like your first girl friend you never forget. To sail from my home port 18th Sept 1968 left 22Dec 68 Oh ...just noticed it was 40 years ago this month.!!! Great to see the photos will see if I still have any to post. Always thought the history of the Booker Line would make a good film or TV program. Such a god story. I remember cargo watching in Georgetown /General cargo/ I noticed a local chap about 6foot 6 inches stumbling down the gangway leaving the ship with a pair of ladies evening shoes on...As I enjoyed going ashore I think I may have looked the other way!! will look back here often. Once again thanks for a great site
Subject: Happy Memories
Name: Rob Browning
E-Mail: Withheld
Date: 08/10/07
Time: 21:01:32		 I did two trips on the Booker Vanguard as 2nd R/O with Alan Moss as Chief. Master was Eddie Puddifer, Arthur Brannon was 2/E and Graham Sylvester was either 3/E or 4/E. Sorry, I can't remember any other names. I bumped into Graham in a pub in Dorset recently; we had quite a yarn about old times.
Subject: Booker Challenge
Name: Ian Cameron
E-Mail: Withheld
Date: 04/09/07
Time: 14:44:31		 I grew up on the Booker Challenge - at sea at 16 as a first trip cadet and green as the sea. Ended up with Blue Star in their rescue-a-booker-line-cadet-for-free scheme but felt less connected to that company and with the demise of the flag in the late 80's went on to a shore-based job which with hindsight was the right choice.

Do you remember Derek McMahon? I was wandering around Liverpool city centre as a student in the later 1980's and something reminded me of Bookers and - for some reason - Derek; as I walked round the next corner there was Derek looking in a shop window. A better bunch of characters you would not find in a novel.

In the photo gallery you show John Tebay Mick Quinn Bob McKechnie and Don MacRae all of whom were on that first one or two trips and I wish you and them all well!

I will keep checking the site. I would love to see more contact on there from people around that time 1980/84.
Subject: So many memories
Name: Ken Stockley
E-Mail: Withheld
Date: 26/08/07
Time: 17:25:49		 Well, just come across this website and it has filled me with so much nostalgia! I've spent hours on it. Got to now go searching through all my stuff for discharge books etc.

OK, so where was I? In the early 70's I was an AB on the Venture and had so many happy times on there from Georgetown, up through the islands and Mississippi(?), New York, Boston, Recife, Santander, Greenock and Silvertown.

I think it's the photos that brought back the memories. I lost most Of the ones I had, in a fire.

I am also in contact with an ex employee who did the chart corrections - maybe mine weren't good enough!

I have a website - http://members.aol.com/KStockley

 
Subject: Booker Line
Name: Neil Woodward (2nd
Engineer Booker Courage)
E-Mail: Withheld
Date: 23/08/07
Time: 11:15:27		 Ricky Milnes (4th Engineer Booker Courage) told me about the site and I think it is very impressive. It is quite a trip down memory lane and the pictures are great.
Subject: Anabisi et al
Name: Geoffrey Holmes
E-Mail: Withheld
Date: 09/08/07
Time: 20:24:00

In the late 1950s Booker Line would charter a vessel for one round trip and this ship would replace the “Amakura” & “Arakaka” whilst they were dry-docked.  Moss Hutchison Line’s Tabor made one such voyage in the summer of 1958, I was a cadet on board at the time. At least one other Moss Hutchison ship (I think Karnak) made one of these voyages.

After passing my Second Mate’s Certificate I joined the Guinea Gulf Line’s Florence Holt.  Ted Jones was the Chief Officer and he went on to Bookers becoming Master.
Subject: Chris Ward (Sharky)
Name: Norma Rimington
             (nee Ward)
E-Mail: Withheld
Date: 11/07/07
Time: 15:52:47

My father sailed on a few of the Booker vessels in the 60s.

I remember going with my mum down to the docks to meet him when he was coming ashore. We'd have on our Sunday best! We used to love being shown around the ship and seeing where he had spent his time away. (I seem to remember my mum would be looking through the Liverpool Echo at the notices to see when his ship would be due for arrival and, of course, when we actually saw it in print that would be when the excitement begun!)

Does anyone remember Charles Christopher Ward (Sharky)?
Subject: Capt Fred Sanchez
Name: Nina Sanchez
E-Mail: Withheld
Date: 09/07/2007
Time: 23:47:33		 I have just found your site and was going through it when I came across Jack Doherty's comment regarding the Anabisi. My father was Captain Fred Sanchez and it was just lovely to see someone mention him. He was also on the Amakura and Arakaka in the 50's and 60's and then went on to teach at the Training School at Mann Island. I did a trip with my mother to British Guiana on either the Amakura or Arakaka when I was fourteen (can't remember which one as it was such a long time ago, and we had to sign on as members of the crew and we were given one shilling as wages - great memories.

Anybody else remember sailing with my dad?
Subject: Josias Booker
Name: Richard Daglish
E-Mail: Withheld
Date: 10/07/07
Time: 08:45:53		 Josias B was also a co-founder of St Anne's Church in Aigburth, Liverpool (1836/7) and involved with the start of Liverpool Collegiate School (1840/1). Any picture of him would be welcomed.

 
Subject: Booker Valiance
Name: Mike Davis
E-Mail: Withheld
Date: 09/07/2007
Time: 13:13:41		 I sailed aboard her 1966. I remember the free docking bottle and taxis. Also swimming in Bookers clubhouse and shopping in their department store in Georgetown.

 
Subject: Bookers
Name: Joan Ward
E-Mail: Withheld
Date: 27/06/07
Time: 23:46:00		 Hi there Ken, today my Husband and myself attended a Vetrans day celebration at Mariners Park Wallasey where we met Gorden Sykes Little who told us about your Web Site. My Husband sailed with Booker Line as Electrical Officer, his name is Eric Ward and I did many trips with him and your Mum and Dad. Eric joined Booker Line in 1970 and left in 1978.We would like to get in touch with anyone who sailed with Eric.It was great looking at your pictures of familiar faces. looking foward to hearing from some of them Joan ward
Subject: First Ship
Name: Haydn Crockford
E-Mail: Withheld
Date: 25/06/07
Time: 12:22:03		 Memories. The Booker Venture was my first ship as a new Radio Officer. Cant remember the dates without looking at my discharge book but it must have been around 67/68. Sailed to Georgetown Guyana. I had turned down a job as R/O on a trawler for the Booker Venture, can you imagine the choice, 6 weeks around the arctic, up to your neck in fish guts or the Caribbean and rum and cokes.
Subject: Bookers
Name: James Carr
E-Mail: Withheld
Date: 05/06/07
Time: 21:12:53		 I was a E.D.H for two trips in 1967 on the Venture we sign on and off in Tilbury and sailed twice to Georgetown I have happy memories of my time onboard her. the photograph of the crews mess reminds me of all the games of crib we use to play there.

Excellent site thank you for bringing back those memories.
Subject: Booker Line
Name: Ian Jones
E-Mail:
ianjones99@hotmail.com

Date: 28/05/07
Time: 12:25:00

Firstly, thanks very much for putting up this site, I have spent many an hour looking for info on Booker Line.

I joined the Booker Viking at the age of 17 in 1974? and was with them until the sold up. In fact I was one of the people who took the Challenge i.e. MV Eigugu out to the far east when it was sold.

I sailed many times with Billy Whizz and Jon Gregory , the others I can't remember.

I will dig out my discharge book and the many pictures I took over the 9 years, so many memories, so many happy days in Georgetown. I'm now living back in my home town of Llanfyllin, mid Wales with wife Pat and kids Gareth (18) and Nia (16) and would love to meet up with old friends.

You can contact Ian directly at his web mail account - Ken
Subject: Bookers
Name: Don Macrae
E-Mail: Letter
Date: 27/04/07
Time: N/A		 Bookers were a superb company to sail with, small and friendly and of course a terrific run. From originally joining the 'Amakura' for a six week relieving trip it became a privilege to spend 24 years on their ships - I definitely had the best R/O's job in the MN.
Subject: Post Card
Name: Don Macrae
E-Mail: Not Supplied
Date: 18/04/07
Time: 21:07:37		 Blast from the past, got your card today would you believe I don't have a computer. I have lots of photos which may interest you. 73's.


Subject: Booker Crusade - The Bermuda Tour
Name: Nigel Smirk
E-Mail: Withheld
Date: 15/04/07
Time: 09:41:47

The following is in reply to Ian's  message posted on 13/04/0 - Ken

Hi Ian,

I was the Radio Officer on that eventful voyage but it didn't put me off and remained at sea until 1987. Still reside in the Northwest but now nothing to do with marine industry except for interest sake on internet
Subject: Those were the days
Name: Ian Shylan
E-Mail: Withheld
Date: 13/04/07
Time: 10:37:43		 Good website.

Started on the Viking as 5th Eng in 1979, I think!, Steve Aspletts name rings a bell.

Went onto the Crusade as 4th, remember that morning when the young cadet Chris came down the engine room and asked me to pump No 1 FWD hold bilge as he had a 1.2m sounding!!!!,OOP's we nearly sank on that one and went into Bermuda for seven weeks.

Remember most faces in the Gallery, Nigel Smirk, Tommy, Cheryl and in particular Arthur Brannon, a great Chief Eng, had to let him win at darts a few times. One more trip on the Challenge but decided it wasn't for me and left in 1980.

Would like to touch base and swap memories with anyone that remembers me.

Subject: Booker Vanguard
Name: Tony Priestly
E-Mail: Withheld
Date: 12/04/07
Time: 19:12:48
Comment:
I was 2nd radio officer on the Booker Vanguard 1968/9/70. Chief RO was Alan Moss. Would be interested in knowing if any of the crew I sailed with are in contact with you
Subject: Web Site
Name: Geoff Valentine
E-Mail: Withheld
Date: 23/03/07
Time: 16:37:47		 Comment:
Excellent site, well put together. Sorry to hear the demise of another UK shipping company.
Subject: Booker Line Website
Name: Neil Hough-Smith
E-Mail: Withheld
Date: 01/03/2007
Time: 13:21:16		 Comment:
My Name is Neil Hough-Smith. I served in Bookers from 1967 thru 1970, on the
Vanguard, Venture, and then went with Bob Mckecknie, later Howard West on running jobs taking small ships of Coe's to the fleet in the West Indies. I sailed as 3rd Mate ,and 2nd Mate on the running jobs. Also sailed with your Father back then. I am in touch with Gordon Little, who was Purser with me on the Vanguard. I have a fond of memories of Bookers etc, just e-mail me if you want some of them.
Subject: We are remembered
Name: Steve Asplet
E-Mail: Withheld
Date: 03/03/07
Time: 21:27:11		 Comment:
I'm so pleased to see your site, it was a wonderful shipping line, and should not be forgotten, I'm serving on a dive support ship now, but will dig out my old photos, and send them to you next trip.
Subject: Looking for Grandfather
Name: Christopher Duke
E-Mail: Withheld
Date: 27/02/07
Time: 07:57:30		 Comment:
My father was born in December 1925 in the Bookers Sugar Estate, Port Morant Plantation, Berbice, British Guiana. His father was a British expatriate by the surname DUKE. I would like to know more about him. How can I access these records to find him?
Subject: BRAGELAND
Name: Albert Cowell
E-Mail: Withheld
Date: 20/02/07
Time:  19:24:37		 Comment:
I brought bragland from Norway (bosun) served on viking. courage. good company to serve in good luck
Subject: Booker Valiant
Name: Paul Spencer
E-Mail: Withheld
Date: 18/02/07
Time:  19:51:23		 Comment:
My name is Paul Spencer, and I am 46 years old. The first ship I ever went to sea on was the Booker Valiant in December 1978. I did 2 trips to the Caribbean and South America. We had a great crew, great ports of call and a great ship.
Subject: Booker Line Website
Name: Des Lyttle
E-Mail: Withheld
Date: 16/02/07
Time:  04:08:59		 Comments:
I have great memories of my voyage on the Booker Vanguard to mainly Georgetown, Guyana, although we did call at some of the West Indies. I remember St.Kitts was one and maybe Antigua was another. I think we also paid a brief visit to Paramaribo in Suriname, as the jungles seem to stick in my mind quite vividly. Anyway looking back, those were fabulous days and I know memory holds the door on sunshine, it was still a marvelous experience for a young man. I wish you every success and think it a great idea.
Subject: Booker Line
Name: Al Fresco
site: www.thescousehouse.net
Date: 10/02/07
Time:  11:21:00		 Comment:
In the summer of 1966 I had just joined Elder Dempster and was sent down to West Africa Terminals to learn how to tally cargo. The first boat we worked on was the Booker Viking, I have always remembered her as being a thing of beauty. A mate of mine Gordon went on to work for them just as they went out business, he then joined a Cast boat and saw them go under as well, lucky guy eh?
Subject: Booker Boats
Name: John Phillips
E-Mail: Withheld
Date: 04/02/07
Time: 23:32:46		 Comment:
My Grandad Tobler Rowan worked for this shipping company for many years did you ever meet him.

 
Subject: Booker Venture Crew 1961/62
Name: Vic Ward
E-Mail: Withheld
Date: 03/02/2007
Time: 14:10:41		 Comment:
Enjoyed visiting your site, took me back a bit, my brother Charles Christopher Ward (deceased) was a member of the Booker Venture crew for a while before retiring from the sea. I wonder if he is remembered?
Subject: Making Contact
Name: Ian Jones
E-Mail: Withheld
Date: 17/01/2007
Time: 17:17:13		 Comment:
I was the 1st deck cadet in booker line in 1973 and am very interested in contacting anybody who sailed with them. I served on Viking, Vanguard, Vulcan, Valiant, Challenge & Crusade - I think that was all. You don't say who you are.
Subject: Booker Line Website
Name: Des Lyttle
E-Mail: Withheld
Date: 11/01/2007
Time: 04:51:00		 Comment:
I would be very interested in contributing to a Booker Web site. I sailed on the Booker Vanguard in 1971 and I still remember some of my fellow ship mates. Georgetown, Guyana brings back good memories for me. I am in China at the moment and arrive back in Vancouver, Canada, my new home on January 27th. I will contact you then and maybe we will have mutual sailing mates.
Subject: Anabisi
Name: Jack Docherty
E-Mail: Withheld
Date: 06/01/2007
Time: 01:04:11		 Comment:
I have just found your site ,and the first page I went to, was the one with a pic. of the Anabisi. I have been looking at all sites ,looking for a pic. She's not even in the MN site registry. I joined her in Ardrossan in June'63 'till July. We used to run to Northern Spain & West coast of France. It was on her I first came to Liverpool, where I still am) Her ship No. was187200,& reg. in Liverpool. Skippers name was Sanchez(6 crew total).
Subject: Booker Line
Name: Lord Gaty
Site: www.thescousehouse.net
Date: 30/12/06
Time: 19:04:12		 Comment:
Lovely site - well done! I can remember standing at the bridge at either Coburg or Queens in 1967 as the Booker Vanguard came through - it was a beautiful ship.
Subject: Your Website
Name: Hugh MacLean
E-Mail: Withheld
Date: 30/12/06
Time: 19:04:12		 Comment:
Congratulations once again for a fine tribute to the MN. The more sites that pay tribute to this fine service that is the Merchant Navy is only to be encouraged. I can relate very much to your labour of love that is your website. It is hard work but very rewarding when you see it online and people start hitting on it. I note you need some info about ANABISI.Built 1958, Groningen, Netherlands, yard no 278, 500 tons.
Subject: The Website
Name: Jon Gregory
E-Mail: Withheld
Date: 29/12/06
Time: 19:02:27		 Comment:
I'm lost in admiration at the wonderful job you've done with this site. I am even now forwarding on details to other ex-Booker guys with whom I'm still in touch. I've got masses of 'stuff' which I liberated during the final days of Booker Line in 1982. Nothing earth shattering, but some photographs which you might like and cargo plans, ships lay out schematics etc. I'll list them for you and you can pick and choose. Excellent work...thank you!!

Thank you for taking the time to sign the Guest Book, it is appreciated.
 
     

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