exploring our future, inspired by our past

"I think the Blyth Collier Brig project is fantastic on so many levels. We have an amazing heritage of boat building in this country and this project is keeping that alive. It is also introducing the magic of sailing adventures to a new generation and doing so in a sustainable and self-sustaining way. I am sure the project will bring a lot of enjoyment to everyone involved. Go for it! " - Dame Ellen MacArthur.

The Blyth Collier Brig project is about capturing the spirit of adventure, global enterprise and renewable resource use that enabled Captain William Smith to trade on the west coast of South America and discover the Southern Shetlands, in the Antarctic Ocean, 200 years ago in a collier brig from Blyth in Northumberland; and using this spirit to contribute to the regeneration of Blyth.

The project will be building a modern version of his collier brig, using state of the art technology, plus a low-carbon-footprint visitor and education facility that will create jobs, enrich lives, and educate future generations in renewable energy use, entrepreneurship, marine engineering and sailing.

The vessel will be used as an ambassador for North East and Blyth engineering skills around the world, adventurous sail training and also as the focus for the development of engineering apprenticeships that will supply the growing dockyards, modern ship builders and renewable energy manufacturers in Blyth with skilled employees from the local community.

Reaction is working in conjunction with Northumberland County Council to host the feasibility study for this exciting project. 

For further information visit www.blythcollierbrig.co.uk